Dogs love summer adventures, but rising temperatures can be dangerous if overheating goes unnoticed. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat effectively, making them especially vulnerable to heatstroke. Whether you’re hiking, heading to the beach, or just going for a walk, knowing the signs of overheating and how to prevent it is essential to keeping your dog safe.
Let’s explore how to recognize heat stress and what you can do to protect your pup during New Jersey’s hottest days.
Why Dogs Overheat So Easily
Dogs primarily cool off by panting and a small amount of sweating through their paw pads. When the air is hot and humid, panting becomes less effective. Combine that with sun exposure, lack of shade, or physical activity, and you’ve got the perfect storm for heat exhaustion.
Breeds with flat faces such as Bulldogs or Pugs, senior dogs, puppies, and overweight dogs are especially susceptible to overheating.
Warning Signs of Overheating
Here are the top symptoms to watch for:
- Heavy, rapid panting
- Excessive drooling
- Red or purple gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Weakness or collapse
- Glazed eyes
- Uncoordinated movement
If your dog shows any of these signs, get them out of the heat immediately and contact your vet. Heatstroke can escalate quickly and may require emergency treatment.
How to Prevent Overheating
Prevention starts with preparation and smart planning. Use this checklist to stay ahead of the heat:
- Walk your dog early in the morning or after sunset
- Stick to shaded trails and grassy areas
- Always carry water for both you and your pup
- Avoid hot pavement; if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws
- Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a minute
Want to add structure to your dog’s daily routine to better manage energy levels and excitement? Basic Obedience Training for Reactive Dogs helps dogs stay calm and responsive, even in stimulating environments like parks, patios, or beach outings.
Beat Boredom Indoors
Some days are simply too hot for outdoor fun. Instead of risking heatstroke, plan activities that keep your dog engaged inside. From puzzle feeders to hide-and-seek games, there are countless ways to exercise your dog indoors. If you need inspiration, check out our guide to skill-building games for dogs that turn learning into fun.
Cooling Products That Help
The right gear can make all the difference in summer safety. Consider:
- Cooling vests or bandanas
- Elevated mesh beds with airflow
- Portable water bottles with attached bowls
- Dog-safe sunscreen for light-skinned breeds
- Shade tents or umbrellas for beach days
Not sure where to start? The American Kennel Club offers a great roundup of cooling products to help your dog stay comfortable and protected.
What to Do If Your Dog Overheats
- Move to a cool, shaded area immediately
- Offer cool, not ice-cold, water
- Wet your dog’s paws, belly, and ears with room-temperature water
- Use fans or air conditioning to reduce body temperature
- Call your vet even if your dog seems better
Time is critical. The sooner you act, the better your dog’s chances of recovery.
Final Thoughts
Summer fun doesn’t have to come at the cost of your dog’s health. With awareness, smart choices, and a few helpful tools, you can enjoy the season while keeping your dog safe, cool, and happy.
Protect Your Pup With Confidence
Want to make sure your dog responds to commands even when excitement and heat are high? Contact us today to get started with a customized training program that puts safety first, all year long.
