How to Treat Heat Stroke in Dogs: An Essential Emergency Guide

Summer fun with our furry companions can swiftly become perilous as temperatures rise. As pet parents, understanding how to recognize and treat heat stroke in dogs could save your dog’s life. At Pet Watch, we’ve seen too many close calls – including some experiences with our team members’ pets – during a particularly hot July afternoon that taught us all a valuable lesson about canine heat safety.

What is Heat Stroke in Dogs?

Heat stroke, or hyperthermia, occurs when a dog’s body temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F) and its innate cooling mechanisms are unable to cope. In contrast to humans, who perspire everywhere, dogs mainly regulate their body temperature by panting and sweating minimally through their paw pads, which makes them highly susceptible to overheating.

At our latest event, we heard an enjoyable but stressful story. One of the users of Pet Watch, a dog parent, reported that her dog started struggling after just a 10-minute walk on hot pavement. She realized how quickly dogs can go from comfortable to critical. “I thought Shih Tzus were tough little dogs, but my dog’s flat face made him especially vulnerable to heat.”

Critical temperatures to remember:

• Normal dog temperature: 38.3–39.2°C (101–102.5°F)
• Concerning: 39.4–40°C (103–104°F)
• Heat stroke: 40°C and above (104°F and above)
• Life-threatening: 41.1°C and above (106°F and above)

Fatal range: 41.7–42.8°C (107–109°F)

Recognizing Heat Stroke Symptoms in Dogs

Early detection is crucial for the successful treatment of heat stroke in dogs. Watch for these warning signs:

Early Warning Signs

• Excessive panting and drooling
• Bright red or dark red gums
• Rapid heart rate
• Weakness or lethargy
• Loss of coordination
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Severe Heat Stroke Symptoms

• Temperature above 40°C (104°F)
• Seizures or tremors
• Collapse or inability to stand
• Bloody vomit or diarrhea
• Blue or pale gums
• Loss of consciousness

“The scariest part was how fast my dog went from heavy panting to stumbling. Within minutes, he couldn’t walk straight, and his gums turned bright red. That’s when I knew we had an emergency.”, said the girl who shared her story.

How to Treat Heat Stroke in Dogs: Immediate Action Steps

Time is critical – every minute counts when treating heat stroke in dogs. Here’s your step-by-step emergency protocol:

Step 1: Move to Safety Immediately

• Get your dog out of the heat source
• Find shade, air conditioning, or a cool area
• Stop all physical activity

Step 2: Begin Cooling Process

Use room temperature water, never ice-cold water:

• Pour cool water over your dog’s head, neck, and chest
• Focus on the belly, armpits, and paw pads
• Apply wet towels to these areas
• Use a fan to increase air circulation
• Replace towels frequently to prevent heat retention

Step 3: Monitor Temperature

• Take rectal temperature if possible
• Continue cooling until the temperature drops to 38.3°C to 39.2°C
• Stop cooling at 38.3°C to 39.2°C to prevent hypothermia

Step 4: Provide Water (If Conscious)

• Offer small amounts of cool water
• Never force water on an unconscious dog
• Ice cubes can be given for licking

Step 5: Get Veterinary Care

• Call your vet or emergency clinic immediately
• Transport with continued cooling measures
• Even if your dog seems better, a professional evaluation is essential

What NOT to Do When Treating Dog Heat Stroke

These common mistakes can worsen your dog’s condition:

❌ Never use ice or ice-cold water – it can cause shock and reduce blood flow 

❌ Don’t force water on unconscious dogs – choking risk 

❌ Avoid alcohol on paw pads – questionable effectiveness and potentially harmful 

❌ Don’t overcool – stopping at 38.3°C prevents dangerous hypothermia 

❌ Never delay veterinary care – complications can develop hours later

Professional Heat Stroke Treatment for Dogs

Once at the veterinary clinic, professional treatment typically includes:

Immediate Veterinary Interventions

• IV fluids to combat dehydration and shock
• Oxygen therapy for breathing support
• Medications to prevent vomiting and protect organs
• Continuous monitoring of vital signs
• Blood tests to check organ function

Advanced Treatment Options

• Anti-seizure medications if needed
• Treatments for blood clotting disorders
• Plasma transfusions in severe cases
• ICU monitoring for 24-48 hours

“The vet told us that bringing my dog in quickly, plus the cooling measures I started at home, probably saved his life. His temperature had dropped to 39.2°C by the time we arrived, which made all the difference.”

Dogs at Higher Risk for Heat Stroke

Some dogs face greater danger from heat-related illness:

High-Risk Breeds

• Brachycephalic breeds: Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus
• Heavy-coated breeds: Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies
• Large breeds: Great Danes, Saint Bernards

Other Risk Factors

• Age (very young or senior dogs)
• Obesity or poor physical condition
• Heart disease or respiratory conditions
• Previous heat stroke episodes
• Certain medications

Preventing Heat Stroke in Dogs

Prevention remains the best treatment for heat stroke in dogs:

Smart Exercise Strategies

• Walk during cooler morning or evening hours
• Test pavement temperature with your hand
• Bring water on all outings
• Watch for early warning signs

Environmental Safety

• Never leave dogs in cars – temperatures can rise a couple of degrees in one hour.
• Provide constant access to shade and water
• Use cooling mats or vests for high-risk dogs
• Consider indoor activities on extremely hot days

Home Preparation

• Keep emergency vet numbers readily available
• Know your dog’s normal temperature
• Have cooling supplies ready during hot weather

“Now I’m obsessed with checking the weather before walks. I wear cooling mats, and I always carry water. One scary experience taught me to be proactive rather than reactive.”, she said.

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Dogs surviving heat stroke face varying recovery timelines:

Short-Term Recovery

• Most dogs improve within 24-48 hours with proper treatment
• Hospitalization typically lasts 2-3 days
• Complete rest is essential during recovery

Long-Term Considerations

• Follow-up blood work to monitor organ function
• Increased susceptibility to future heat stroke
• Possible permanent organ damage in severe cases
• Behavioral changes in some dogs

Success Rates

Studies show that dogs receiving immediate cooling treatment have survival rates of 80%, compared to 50% for dogs not cooled before veterinary care.

When to Call Emergency Services

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog shows:

• Any combination of heat stroke symptoms
• Temperature above 40°C
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
• Bloody vomit or diarrhea
• Collapse or inability to walk

Remember: it’s always better to err on the side of caution with heat-related emergencies.

FAQ

How can I tell if my dog is experiencing heat stroke? Look out for extreme panting, vivid red gums, lethargy, vomiting, and a body temperature exceeding 40°C. Initial symptoms consist of excessive salivation and trouble walking.

What is the method for treating a dog suffering from heat stroke? Relocate to a cooler environment right away, apply room-temperature water to the head, neck, chest, and abdomen, use fans for improved airflow, and seek veterinary assistance promptly while maintaining cooling efforts.

What are the quickest ways to cool my dog down? Utilize room-temperature water on crucial spots (head, neck, chest, abdomen, paw pads), place damp towels, ensure air movement with fans, and give small quantities of cool water if the dog is alert.

What is the survival chance for a dog experiencing heat stroke? Dogs that get prompt cooling treatment have an 80% chance of survival, whereas those that aren’t cooled before veterinary assistance have a 50% chance of survival. Timely intervention is essential.

The details presented in this article are meant solely for general informational use and should not be considered medical, legal, or professional guidance. Situations may vary depending on personal circumstances and regional regulations, so we suggest seeking guidance from qualified experts in your area for advice suited to your requirements. We cannot assure the results of any actions influenced by the information in this article, which includes details about third-party products. We reject all responsibility for any losses or damages—whether direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential—that may result from utilizing or misusing this information, including but not limited to financial harm, injury, illness, or death.

By Monja Madan, Founder of Pet Watch App.

June 26, 2025