Heatstroke in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment

So, the combination of preventive measures, early attention and the use of these solutions can help you guarantee your dog’s wellbeing even on the hottest days. Stay alert, act quickly and always prioritise their safety.

Meanwhile, Adaptil Spray is perfect for applying to carriers or resting areas, creating a more relaxing environment.

For example, Adaptil Chews are useful at specific times, such as travel or particularly hot days. In the case of Adaptil Calm Collar, it offers a continuous release of pheromones, ideal for dogs that need constant support throughout the hot season.

These products are formulated with pheromones that help reduce anxiety and promote a state of calm in the dog, which can contribute to better adaptation to environmentally stressful situations such as high temperatures.

In addition, stress can also influence how the body responds to heat. In this regard, products such as Adaptil Chews, Adaptil Calm Collar and Adaptil Spray can be a great help.

• Avoid walks during the hottest part of the day.
• Always provide fresh, clean water.
• Ensure there is shade and good ventilation.
• Never leave your dog inside the car.
• Adapt physical activity to the temperature.

The best way to prevent heatstroke in dogs is through prevention. Some basic recommendations include:

Prevention: the key to protecting your dog

Once at the clinic, the vet will assess the animal’s condition and may administer fluids, oxygen or medication depending on the severity of the case.

1. Move the dog to a cool, shaded place.
2. Lower their temperature gradually, never suddenly. You can wet their body with lukewarm water (not cold) and apply damp cloths.
3. Offer fresh water in small amounts, without forcing them to drink.
4. Avoid using ice directly, as this can cause vasoconstriction and make the situation worse.

The treatment for heatstroke in dogs must begin as soon as possible. The first measures you can apply at home while heading to the vet are:

Heatstroke in dogs: what to do

That is why, if you suspect heatstroke, do not wait to see whether it improves by itself: it is essential to act immediately and go to the vet.

One of the most common questions is how long heatstroke lasts in dogs. The duration depends on how quickly it is detected and treated. If action is taken immediately, symptoms may start to improve within a few hours, although full recovery can take several days. However, if treatment is delayed, internal damage can be prolonged or even become irreversible.

How long does heatstroke last in dogs?

• Excessive panting and rapid breathing
• Heavy salivation
• Lethargy or weakness
• Very red or bluish gums
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Disorientation or lack of coordination
• Seizures in severe cases

Recognising the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs in time is essential. Some of the most common signs include:

Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs

Factors such as walking during the hottest hours, lack of shade or water, being shut in cars or poorly ventilated spaces, obesity, the coat or brachycephalic breeds (such as bulldogs or pugs) significantly increase the risk of heat in dogs.

Dogs release heat mainly through panting and, to a lesser extent, through the pads of their paws. When these mechanisms are not enough, body temperature can quickly rise above 40 °C, causing physiological collapse.

The combination of heat and dogs does not always have to be dangerous, but when the temperature is high and there are no adequate cooling mechanisms, the risk increases.

Why does heatstroke happen in dogs?

Heatstroke in dogs is one of the most serious veterinary emergencies during the summer months. Unlike humans, dogs do not regulate their body temperature in the same way, which makes them especially vulnerable to excess heat. Understanding how heat affects dogs, recognising the signs in time and acting quickly can make the difference between recovery and fatal consequences.