Heatstroke in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention

Heatstroke in dogs occurs when their body overheats and they can’t cool down—usually once their temperature rises above 104 F (normal is around 101–102.5 F). 

At that point, their organs can start to shut down, which is why heatstroke is a medical emergency that needs immediate veterinary care. 

Recognizing the signs of heatstroke early can save your dog’s life. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may progress quickly. 

Common signs of heatstroke in dogs include: 

• Excessive panting or rapid, labored breathing 
• Thick drooling or foamy saliva 
• Vomiting or diarrhea, sometimes with blood 
• Weakness, lethargy, or inability to stand 
• Disorientation, confusion, or uncoordinated movement 
• Bright red, pale, or bluish gums 
• Increased heart rate 
• Collapse or seizures 

As heatstroke gets worse, your dog may become unresponsive or even pass out. If you see this, it’s an emergency—get your dog to a veterinarian right away.

Heatstroke can happen in more situations than you might expect—but many are preventable.  

In a 2017 study of heatstroke in dogs, certain risk factors, such as breed and environment, significantly increased the likelihood of overheating, which is why understanding the common causes can help keep your dog safe. 

Common causes include: 

• Exercising in hot or humid weather, especially midday  
• High humidity, which makes panting less effective 
• Not having enough shade or airflow outdoors 
• Limited access to fresh water 
• Leaving a dog in a parked car, even briefly (temps rise quickly—even on mild days) 

Even conditions that seem safe can become dangerous if a dog is exposed too long or can’t cool down properly. 

If you think your dog has heatstroke, act fast—this is an emergency. 

Here’s what to do: 

1. Move your dog to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned space right away. 
2. Gently pour cool (not ice-cold) water over their body, especially the belly, paws, and neck. 
3. Use a fan to help lower their temperature. 
4. Offer small sips of water if they’re alert, but don’t force it. 
5. Get your dog to an emergency vet as soon as possible. 

Even if your dog seems better, they still need to be checked by a veterinarian. Heatstroke can cause internal damage that isn’t always visible right away. 

Veterinarians use a few key tests to confirm heatstroke and assess its severity. 

They may: 

• Take your dog’s temperature. 
• Do a quick physical exam. 
• Run blood work to check how the organs are doing. 
• Check urine for kidney health. 
• Test how well the blood is clotting. 

These help your vet understand what’s going on and choose the right treatment.

Treatment for heatstroke focuses on safely cooling your dog down and supporting their body as it recovers. 

Your vet may: 

• Gradually cool your dog using water, fans, or cooling blankets.

• Give IV fluids to rehydrate and support organ function. 
• Provide oxygen if your dog is having trouble breathing. 
• Use medications, such as anti-nausea drugs (like Cerenia) or anti-seizure medications, as directed by your veterinarian, to manage symptoms like vomiting or seizures.

• Monitor your dog closely, sometimes in the hospital. 

Cooling down needs to happen carefully. Bringing the temperature down too quickly can cause complications. 

The good news? Heatstroke is often preventable with a few simple habits. 

Key prevention tips include: 

• Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with windows cracked. 
• Limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day. 
• Always provide access to fresh, clean water. 

• Make sure your dog has shade or a cool, air-conditioned space. 
• Use cooling products like mats or vests when needed.

• Walk your dog during cooler times, like early morning or evening. 

A little planning goes a long way in keeping your dog safe when temperatures rise.

What are the signs of heatstroke in puppies? 

Puppies show many of the same signs as adult dogs—like heavy panting, vomiting, and weakness—but they can get worse more quickly because their bodies are still developing. 

What’s the difference between overheating and heatstroke in dogs? 

Overheating is when your dog is getting too warm but can still cool down. Heatstroke occurs when the body can’t cool off, and its temperature rises to dangerous levels.

What’s the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke in dogs? 

Heat exhaustion is an earlier, milder stage where cooling and rest may help. Heatstroke is much more serious and always requires immediate veterinary care. 

How long does heatstroke last in dogs? 

It depends on how severe it is and how quickly your dog gets treatment—some dogs recover within a day, while others may need several days of care and monitoring. 

Can dogs recover from heatstroke on their own? 

No. Heatstroke is an emergency. Your dog needs veterinary care right away, even if they seem to improve. 

What is the survival rate for dogs with heatstroke? 

Dogs who get treatment quickly have a much better chance of recovery. Waiting too long greatly increases the risk of serious complications or death.