How to tell if your dog got heat stroke

Picture this: It’s a sticky July afternoon in Phoenix, and you’re back from a quick walk with your Labrador. She’s panting harder than usual, drooling on the kitchen floor, and when you call her name, she barely lifts her head. Your heart sinks—could this be heat stroke? If you’ve ever worried about your dog in sweltering weather, you’re not alone. Let’s break down how to spot this emergency like a pro, no medical jargon required.

Dogs don’t cool off like we do. They can’t sweat (except a little through their paws), so they rely on panting to release heat. When the mercury climbs—especially above 85°F (29°C)—or humidity is high, their bodies struggle to keep up. Think of it like running a marathon in a fur coat while only being able to breathe through a straw. Heat stroke happens when their internal temp hits 104°F (40°C) or higher, damaging organs and causing panic. Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, Bulldogs) are extra vulnerable—their squashed noses make panting less effective. I once saw a Boston Terrier in Houston collapse at a park because her owner didn’t realize the danger of midday walks.

So, how do you tell if it’s more than just “being tired”? Start with the basics: excessive panting that doesn’t slow down, drool that’s thick or foamy, and gums that are bright red (or pale, a sign of poor circulation). Your dog might stumble, vomit, or even collapse—like that Boston Terrier, who started shaking and couldn’t stand. Touch their ears or belly: are they hot to the touch, like a warm radiator? That’s a red flag. Time is critical here—every minute counts.

If you suspect heat stroke, act fast. First, move them to shade or air conditioning immediately. Douse them with lukewarm (not icy!) water—cold water can shock their system. Use a wet towel on their neck, armpits, and groin, where blood vessels are close to the skin. Offer small sips of cool water or a electrolyte solution (like Pedialyte, but skip the fruity flavors). Then, call your vet while you’re cooling them—many clinics in hot states like California have emergency protocols. In Austin, my friend’s Golden Retriever survived because she started cooling him in the car on the way to the vet, shaving his thick fur to help heat escape.

Now, let’s talk about keeping this from happening in the first place—because prevention is key. First, know the law and be a good neighbor. In most U.S. states, leaving a dog in a parked car during warm weather is not just cruel—it’s illegal. In Arizona, you could face a $1,000 fine or even jail time for heat - related neglect. When walking, stick to early mornings or evenings, and avoid asphalt (it can hit 140°F/60°C by noon—burning their paw pads!). In apartments, keep blinds closed during the day and leave a fan on low—dogs overheat faster in small, stuffy spaces. And always carry a collapsible water bowl on walks—parks like New York’s Central Park have water fountains for pups, but it’s safer to bring your own.

Cultural note: Never punish a dog for heat - related distress. If they refuse to walk or seem “stubborn” in the heat, they’re not misbehaving—they’re surviving. Use positive reinforcement to encourage cool - weather habits: praise them for drinking water, or offer a frozen treat (like blueberries in ice cubes) when they rest in the shade. In communities, be mindful of others: a panting, distressed dog can scare kids or other pet owners, so prioritize their comfort over a long walk.

At the end of the day, heat stroke is preventable with vigilance. Watch the weather, know your dog’s limits, and act fast if something feels off. Your pup can’t tell you they’re too hot—so be their voice, especially when the sun’s beating down.