Heatstroke in Dogs: Signs, First Aid and How to Walk Safely in an Australian Summer

Quick answer: Signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, drooling, very red or pale gums, vomiting, weakness and collapse. Cool your dog with tepid or cool water (not ice or ice-cold water), fan them, and get to a vet straight away, even if they seem to recover. Prevent it by walking early or late, testing the pavement with your hand and never leaving your dog in a car.

Australian summers can be tough on dogs. Unlike us, dogs can't sweat to cool down. They rely mostly on panting, and on a hot, humid day that is often not enough.

Heatstroke can happen quickly, and RSPCA Australia describes it as a very serious condition that can cause organ failure or death. Knowing the signs could save your dog's life.

What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?

RSPCA Australia and RSPCA Queensland list these warning signs:

Heavy, relentless panting that gets worse
Drooling and salivating
Agitation or restlessness
Very red or pale gums, and a bright red tongue
Breathing difficulty
Vomiting or diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
Weakness, lethargy, staggering or muscle tremors
Confusion, seizures or collapse

Your dog may show only a few of these. If you suspect heatstroke at all, act straight away.

What should I do if my dog has heatstroke?

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Start cooling your dog straight away, then get them to a vet.

Move your dog out of the heat. Get into shade, or somewhere air-conditioned.
Wet their fur and skin with tepid or cool water. A hose, a spray bottle or wet towels all work. Wetting the ground around them can help too.
Do not use ice or ice-cold water. RSPCA Australia warns this "may make the problem worse".
Fan your dog while they are wet, to help the heat escape.
Offer small amounts of water if they are alert and want to drink. Don't force it.
Get to a vet as soon as possible. Call ahead so they're ready. In the car, keep the air conditioning on your dog.

Even if your dog seems to bounce back, still see a vet. RSPCA Queensland notes that organ damage can appear later.

Save your nearest after-hours clinic now with our Northern Beaches emergency vet contacts.

Which dogs are most at risk of heatstroke?

Any dog can get heatstroke. But some dogs are at higher risk, according to RSPCA Australia, UQ VETS and Cornell University's vet school:

Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs and British bulldogs, which can have narrow airways
Older dogs and very young puppies
Overweight dogs
Dogs with thick or long coats, and dogs with darker coats
Dogs with heart or breathing problems or other medical conditions

If your dog fits one of these groups, be extra careful on warm days. Your vet can give advice suited to your dog.

How hot is too hot for walking my dog?

There's no single number, as humidity, shade, your dog's breed and fitness all play a part. A simple rule is to avoid exercise in the heat of the day.

RSPCA Australia recommends walking your dog early in the morning or late in the evening on hot days. UQ VETS adds that on very hot days, even early evening can be too warm.

Daylight saving shifts the cooler parts of the day. Our guide to daylight saving and safe walk times can help you plan.

How do I test if the pavement is too hot for my dog's paws?

Use the RSPCA's back-of-the-hand test:

Place the back of your hand flat on the pavement, sand or road.
Hold it there for five seconds.
If it's too hot for you to keep it there, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Hot sand, concrete and asphalt can all burn paws. Try to stick to grass and shade, and take a water bowl on every summer walk.

Is it ever safe to leave my dog in the car?

No. RSPCA Australia says, "Don't ever leave your pet in a car or vehicle," even on mild days, in the shade or with the windows down.

Car temperatures can climb to more than double the outside temperature. The RSPCA warns it can take just six minutes for an animal to die in a hot car. Dogs on the back of a ute can also overheat or burn their paws on a hot tray.

If you see an animal in distress in a hot car, contact the police or your local RSPCA urgently.

FAQs

Should I put ice on my dog if it's overheating?

No. RSPCA Australia advises using tepid or cool water, not ice or ice-cold water, which may make heatstroke worse. Wet the fur and skin, fan your dog and head to the vet.

Can a dog recover from heatstroke at home?

Always see a vet, even if your dog seems better. Heatstroke can damage organs, and RSPCA Queensland notes that damage can appear later.

What time of day is best for summer dog walks?

Early morning or late evening, when it's coolest. On very hot days, skip the walk and play a calm game indoors instead.

Are swims at the beach a good way to keep dogs cool?

A swim can help, but hot sand, strong sun and lots of running can still cause overheating. Take shade, fresh water and regular breaks. Read our complete guide to dog beach safety.

Are flat-faced dogs more likely to get heatstroke?

Yes. Short-nosed breeds like pugs and bulldogs are at higher risk because their airways can make it harder to cool down by panting. Talk to your vet about how to keep them safe in summer.

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