How Hot Is Too Hot for Dogs?

Spring and summer are some of the best times of year for you and your dog—hiking, lounging near a lake, hanging in the backyard by the pool. 

But it’s important to remember that dogs in hot weather face the same health risks that people do. Some breeds of dog, particularly those that are brachycephalic, are more at risk for heat-related medical issues. 

Heatstroke or heat-related illnesses can happen in as little as 30 minutes if there is no way for your pup to get out of the sun, cool down, and rest. Here’s how to keep them healthy even in extreme temperatures.

Do Dogs Get Hot?

Dogs, like most mammals, are highly affected by hot weather. They’re only able to sweat through their paw pads and rely on panting to cool themselves down.

Since these methods are not very effective, dogs are at risk of serious illness when it’s hot outside.

Here are some common factors that affect your dog’s body temperature:

• Breed: A dog’s breed may determine how much heat your dog can stand. Short-nosed dog breeds have a much lower tolerance to high heat and high humidity, leaving them at risk for serious health concerns. Their face shape does not allow for efficient panting to cool themselves. Examples are the Shih Tzu, English Bulldog, Pug, and Boxer.
• Spending long periods of time outside in hot and/or humid weather
• Poor ventilation, such as being left in a hot car with no air conditioning
• Water deprivation or lack of access to enough fresh water: Always bring along a portable water bowl.

• Medical conditions: Some health conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, lung conditions, or laryngeal or nervous system disease, leave dogs more susceptible to high temperatures.
• Medications such as diuretics, beta blockers, or sedatives
• A thicker, more dense hair coat:  These can hold more heat in.
  • Double-coated breeds (for example, Golden Retrievers) tend to overheat more than short-coated breeds (like Labradors).
  • Darker coat colors absorb more heat than lighter coats.
• Senior dogs or young puppies: These dogs may have a harder time regulating their body temperature.
• Larger dogs have more surface area to cool off. Smaller dogs can cool themselves more efficiently. 

What Temperature Is Too Hot for Dogs?

A dog’s normal body temperature is higher than a human’s, with normal being between 100.5 and 102.5 F. This puts them more at risk for heatstroke, which occurs when their body temperature reaches 106 F. It only takes an increase of 4 degrees for your dog to die from heatstroke.

The amount of humidity in the air is just as concerning as the heat. Dogs rely on panting to cool their body, and they are not as efficient as people at breathing very humid air.

If it’s more than 70 F outside, especially with high humidity, limit the length of walks with your dog and the amount of time they spend outside. If temperatures are 80–90 F, only take your dog on short walks to let them poop or pee.

Other outdoor play time should involve water, like swimming in a local lake, or playing in a dog pool. Just make sure the water’s safe first.  

If your dog doesn't like water, opt for indoor play time using dog puzzles, flirt poles, or other dog toys. 

If temperatures are higher than 90 F, don’t take your pet outside for any more time than it takes for them to do their business. If they can use a pee pad or indoor turf, avoid the outdoor heat altogether. If you are uncomfortable with the heat outside, odds are your dog is too.

It’s also important to think about surface temperatures such as hot asphalt, which can burn your dog’s paws.

Surface temperatures are often much higher than air temperatures, especially roads, sidewalks, and outdoor furniture. Consider lightweight, breathable dog boots to protect their paws in areas of prolonged heat.

Can Dogs Survive the Heat?

Dogs can experience heatstroke quickly at high temperatures and high humidity. If your dog does overheat, they should be cooled down immediately and taken to their vet right away.

Leaving a dog outside in temperatures at 85–90 F for just a few minutes can cause them to overheat. This can be a life-threatening situation if they don’t have access to shade, cooler temperatures, and plenty of fresh water.

Never leave a dog outside for long periods of time in temperatures above 70 F, as surface temperatures are much higher and can hurt your dog.

Dogs are very good at hiding pain and illness, and sometimes you won’t know they are experiencing heatstroke until they are extremely ill and collapse. In one study of dogs with heatstroke, the mortality rate was more than 50 percent.

What To Do if Your Power Goes Out

Some causes of high temperatures can’t be controlled, such as when your electrical power goes out. Without power, the lack of air conditioning or working fans can leave your dog at risk of heatstroke.

Always a backup plan to help your pup stay cool. Here are some ideas to keep your dog safe:

• Ask ahead about heading to a family member’s or friend’s home if your power goes out.
• Have a pet-friendly hotel’s information on hand in case you need to leave overnight.
• Take your dog to a nearby boarding facility until the power comes back on.
• Make a disaster plan and pack for your dog. Keep your contact information and their vet’s information with this kit in case you and your pet get separated. Battery-powered fans are also helpful, as well as a cooling bed and plenty of cold, fresh water in a travel dog bowl.

• In the case of wildfires nearby, leave the area as soon as possible to make sure your dog doesn’t overheat or have problems with the heat and poor air quality.

What Are Signs of Overheating in Dogs?

Signs of overheating in dogs are:

• Elevated body temperature above 104 F
• Heavy panting
• Drooling
• Hot skin
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea, bloody or not
• Bright red, blue, or purple gums
• Tacky gums (dry or sticky)
• Weakness or listlessness
• Confusion or disorientation
• Ataxia (unsteady walk)
• Muscle tremors
• Seizures
• Collapse or loss of consciousness
• Petechiae (tiny bruises on skin)
• Coughing or wheezing

How To Cool Down Your Dog

If your dog is overheated, get help as soon as possible, since overheating in dogs can be fatal.

1. Head to the vet. On the way there, cool your dog down: Douse them in cool (not cold) water over their head and abdomen as well as on the armpits and the feet.
2. Use a fan or the car air conditioning for continuous cool airflow to your pet.
3. Cool cloths or cooling blankets can also be put on your dog. Ensure the wet cloths you use are replaced often, because your dog’s body heat will cool the cloths down very quickly.

What not to do: 

• Do not use cold water or ice packs on your dog. These can cause reduced blood flow, which means the heat in the skin stays longer.
• Do not use alcohol on their paw pads, since it can also raise their body temperature.

When to Call Your Vet

Heatstroke is a medical emergency, and if your dog has signs, they should be taken to the vet right away.

Try to actively cool them down on the way or for just a moment before you go following the instructions above.

Your dog’s body temperature needs to rise only 4 degrees from normal before they have heatstroke; heavy panting can quickly turn to seizures and loss of consciousness, potentially leading to death, so head to the vet immediately.

If your vet is not available, take your dog to the nearest veterinary emergency room.