What are the symptoms of heat stroke in dogs?

In the process of raising dogs, heat stroke is an important factor that threatens the health and even life of dogs. In the hot summer, the pet owner's momentary negligence may cause the dog to suffer from heat stroke. Therefore, understanding the symptoms of heat stroke in dogs is crucial for timely identification and intervention. Below, let's take a look at the various manifestations of heat stroke in dogs to help pet owners better protect the health of dogs. ​

The body structure of dogs is different from that of humans. They mainly dissipate heat through foot pads and breathing. In a high temperature environment, the dog's heat dissipation mechanism will be overwhelmed, causing heat stroke. Heat stroke not only causes discomfort to dogs, but may also endanger their lives in severe cases. ​

The early symptoms of heat stroke are not difficult to detect. Dogs will show a stronger thirst than usual and look for water everywhere. Shortness of breath is also a significant feature, with a panting frequency far exceeding normal levels, and may be accompanied by slight restlessness. This is because the dog's body has begun to feel the threat of high temperature and tries to dissipate heat by speeding up breathing. Some dogs will also experience loss of appetite and lack interest in their usual favorite foods. Pet owners should not take these signs lightly, as they may be early signs of heatstroke in dogs. Measures should be taken as soon as possible to move the dog to a cool and ventilated place and provide plenty of drinking water.

As the heatstroke worsens, the dog's symptoms will become more obvious. First, the body temperature rises sharply, which may reach 40℃ or even higher. Because high temperature affects the nervous system, the dog will become listless, unstable when standing, staggering when walking, and even lose balance. Some dogs will drool, and the saliva will increase, and sometimes it will be thick. The eyes will also be affected, with conjunctiva congestion and redness, and dull eyes. The dog's heartbeat will become fast and weak, the temperature of the extremities will rise, and the pads of the feet will become hot. When the dog is found to have these symptoms, it means that the dog's heatstroke is already serious. The pet owner must take emergency measures immediately and send it to the pet hospital for professional treatment as soon as possible. ​

Severe heatstroke is extremely dangerous for dogs and may cause a series of life-threatening symptoms. Dogs will vomit and have diarrhea, and there may even be blood in the vomit and excrement. Convulsions are also typical symptoms of severe heatstroke. The dog's body spasms uncontrollably, the muscles are tense, and there may be loss of consciousness and no response to external stimuli. Breathing will become more difficult, showing deep gasps or intermittent breathing, and even respiratory arrest may occur. These symptoms indicate that the dog's body functions have been severely damaged and its life is in danger, and it needs to be treated every minute. ​

The symptoms of heatstroke may vary for dogs of different breeds. Short-nosed dog breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, have short nasal cavities, narrow airways, and poor heat dissipation capabilities. Breathing problems will be more prominent after heatstroke, and they are prone to difficulty breathing and rapid panting. Dogs with dense hair, such as Alaskan dogs and Chow Chows, are more likely to accumulate heat in high temperature environments. In addition to shortness of breath and mental depression after heatstroke, the body temperature may rise faster. However, puppies and elderly dogs have weaker physical functions and poorer adaptability to high temperatures. The symptoms of heatstroke may be more severe and recovery is relatively difficult.​

The symptoms of heat stroke in dogs are a gradual process from mild to severe. Pet owners should pay close attention to the condition of their dogs in daily life, especially in hot weather, and take preventive measures to prevent heat stroke in dogs. Once a dog is found to have symptoms of heat stroke, correct response measures should be taken in time to protect the dog's health and life safety to the greatest extent.