Summer adventures are meant to be fun, not frantic. But when temps rise, so does the risk of your pup overheating. Here are the key signs to watch for, and exactly what to do (and not do) if it happens.
1. Heavy Panting That Won’t Slow Down
Panting is how dogs cool down, but nonstop, heavy panting (even after rest) is a red flag. If your dog seems like they just can’t catch their breath, it's time to act.
2. Glazed Eyes or Unsteady Movements
A dog who’s overheating might seem dazed, disoriented, or shaky on their feet. This signals their body is struggling to regulate its temperature and needs help immediately.
3. Excessive Drooling or Thick, Sticky Saliva
More drool than usual — especially if it’s thick or stringy — often shows your pup is overheating. It’s a sign their body is under stress and dehydrating.
4. Vomiting or Diarrhea
Heat can upset your dog’s system fast. Vomiting and diarrhea, especially with other symptoms on this list, mean it’s time to intervene, and consider heading to the vet.
5. Bright Red, Pale, or Blue-Tinted Gums
Your dog’s gums offer important clues. Bright red gums suggest overheating. Pale or blue gums signal lack of oxygen. If your pup’s gums are one of these colors, it requires immediate attention.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Overheating
✅ Move them to shade or A/C immediately.
Get them out of the sun and into a cooler space as fast as possible.
✅ Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water.
Let them drink at their own pace. Hydration helps them cool from the inside out.
✅ Gently cool key areas with damp towels.
Target their paws, ears, underarms, and belly with cool, damp (not icy) cloths. These areas help release heat naturally. Avoid soaking their entire body or using ice water.
✅ Use a fan to help airflow.
Air circulation paired with damp towels speeds gentle cooling.
✅ Monitor for quick improvement, but don’t wait too long.
You should see signs of recovery within 5-10 minutes: calmer breathing, less panting, more responsiveness.
If not, or if symptoms worsen (vomiting, collapse, confusion, worsening gums) head to the vet immediately.
When in doubt, call your vet. Heatstroke can escalate fast.
What Not to Do If Your Dog Is Overheating
🚫 Don’t use ice water or ice baths.
This can shock their system, constrict blood vessels, and slow cooling.
🚫 Don’t force them to drink.
If they’re not interested in water, focus on external cooling first.
🚫 Don’t wait it out hoping they’ll recover on their own.
If symptoms don’t improve within minutes, or worsen, seek vet care. Prompt action can save their life.
🚫 Don’t forget hydration is a daily habit.
Keeping your dog well-hydrated is one of the best ways to help them handle heat safely.
Hydration is Key
Hydration supports your dog’s overall health and helps regulate body temperature. Prevention is always easier than dealing with heat exhaustion.
Check out our hydration tips blog for easy ways to keep your pup happy, healthy, and cool.