Beat the Heat: Signs of Overheating and How to Prevent It

Summertime brings sunshine, longer days, and more time outside, but it also brings real risks for your dog. As temperatures rise, so do the chances of overheating, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke.

Many dog owners don’t realize just how quickly a fun outing can turn dangerous. Whether you’re heading to the park, playing fetch, or just taking a stroll on a sunny afternoon, it’s essential to understand the signs of overheating and how to keep your dog cool and safe.

Here’s what every dog owner needs to know to beat the heat this summer.

How Dogs Regulate Heat (and Why It’s Risky)

Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat through their skin. They rely mainly on panting and minimal sweating through paw pads to regulate their body temperature. This makes it much harder for them to cool down, especially in humid environments like North Carolina.

Some breeds are even more susceptible:

• Flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs like Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pugs
• Thick-coated breeds like Huskies and Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Overweight or elderly dogs
• Dogs with medical conditions

Even short exposure to extreme heat can lead to serious consequences if you’re not prepared.

Warning Signs of Overheating in Dogs

Watch for these early and advanced signs of heat stress:

Early signs:

• Heavy or excessive panting
• Bright red gums or tongue
• Drooling or foamy saliva
• Restlessness or agitation

Severe signs:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Staggering or weakness
• Collapse or unresponsiveness
• Gray or pale gums
• Seizures

If you see any signs of advanced heatstroke, cool your dog down with lukewarm (not cold) water and contact your vet immediately.

Smart Ways to Prevent Overheating

Prevention starts with smart routines and environment control. Here are ways to keep your dog safe and comfortable in the heat.

Exercise During Cooler Hours

Stick to early mornings or late evenings for walks or outdoor play. Pavement and sidewalks can become dangerously hot. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

Stay Hydrated

Bring water on every outing, and make sure your dog has access to fresh water throughout the day. Collapsible water bowls and portable bottles make this easy. For a list of highly-rated options, check out this roundup of best dog water bottles for travel from Dogster.

Use Cooling Products

Try cooling mats, vests, or bandanas that help regulate temperature. Frozen treats or KONGs filled with dog-safe ingredients can also help your pup chill out.

Keep Them Mentally Engaged Indoors

On hot days, shift your energy toward mental stimulation and obedience work. Try a mini training session or enrichment game inside where it’s cool. If you need ideas, our guide on how to design engaging serious games for dog skill development is packed with ways to make learning fun indoors.

Use Training to Avoid Dangerous Situations

Did you know obedience training can actually help prevent overheating scenarios?

A dog trained to listen under distraction is more likely to:

• Respond to commands like “place” or “down” in the shade
• Come when called if they’re overheating during play
• Remain calm instead of running frantically in the heat

Our Basic Obedience Training for Reactive Dogs helps your dog develop focus and control even in high-energy situations, which is critical for safety during the summer.

Create a Cool-Down Station at Home

Set up a dedicated cool-down area with:

• Fans or air conditioning
• A shaded crate with water access
• Cooling mats or damp towels
• Frozen treats for reward-based rest time

Dogs thrive on routine. Incorporating calm training during these breaks not only helps reduce stress but also teaches your dog how to settle during overstimulating environments, whether it’s the heat or a loud holiday.

For more tips on how to calm your dog during chaotic situations, especially summer events, check out our blog on helping your dog settle at outdoor cafes and events.

Summer Can Be Safe and Fun

With the right tools and awareness, summer doesn’t have to be stressful. By recognizing the signs of overheating and practicing prevention, you can enjoy the season while keeping your dog happy and healthy.

At Off Leash K9 Training Winston, we’re committed to helping your dog develop life-saving obedience skills that work in every season.

Want to prepare your dog for every season? Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.