Symptoms of Heatstroke in Dogs
When dogs become suddenly restless, pant heavily, or lose their balance on hot days, it can be a sign of heatstroke. Usually, the body temperature rises above 40 °C. Typical warning signs include:
- Heavy panting and rapid breathing
- Apathetic or disoriented behavior
- Weakness, trembling, or problems standing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- In severe cases: seizures or unconsciousness
Then quick action is required to prevent the situation from becoming life-threatening.
First Aid for Heatstroke
As soon as you recognize that your dog is overheating, every minute counts. Take them immediately to a cool, shady place and moisten their paws, belly, and neck with lukewarm water or a damp cloth. Avoid ice-cold water or a cold shower – this could further strain your dog's circulation. Ensure good air circulation, for example, with a fan or an open window. Offer them small amounts of lukewarm water, but do not force them to drink. Above all: contact your veterinarian as soon as possible and describe the situation. The sooner professional help arrives, the better the chances for your dog.
[TRANSLATION ERROR] Früh raus, cool bleiben: Bei hohen Temperaturen sind schattige Spaziergänge das A und O für deinen Doggo.
How to Protect Your Dog from Heatstroke
To prevent heatstroke from occurring in the first place, you can follow a few simple but effective tips:
- Plan walks early in the morning or in the evening when it is not so hot outside.
- Choose shady spots or a cool home during the midday heat.
- Avoid hot asphalt – test with the back of your hand to see if the ground is too hot.
- Always have fresh water available, even on the go.
- Never leave your dog alone in the car, even for a few minutes.
This way, your dog stays fit and healthy even on hot days!
Caution Hot Asphalt: Protection for the Paws
In →summer, asphalt can become really dangerous for your dog – especially if you don't notice it right away. Starting at 25 °C outside temperature, the ground can heat up to more than 50 °C. You often only realize this when it is already too late for your dog's paws.
Just do the back of the hand test: Place the back of your hand on the ground. If you can't stand it for a few seconds, it is too hot for your dog as well. Pay special attention to shaded paths, meadows, or forest floors to protect their sensitive paws. If you spend a lot of time on hot surfaces, dog shoes can also help. This way, your dog stays safe and pain-free!
[TRANSLATION ERROR] Handrückentest bei Hitze: Hältst du es auf dem Asphalt nicht aus, ist es auch für die Pfoten deines Hundes zu heiß.
Special Caution for Certain Breeds
Some dogs handle heat worse than others. Short-nosed breeds like pugs or bulldogs often have breathing problems and cannot cool down as well. Older dogs or those with heart or lung diseases are also particularly susceptible to heatstroke. And for overweight dogs, every extra kilo puts even more strain on their circulation.
For these four-legged friends: be even more cautious and take them to the shade one more time or stop the activity. This way, your dog stays fit and healthy even on hot days.
