Heatwaves are becoming more frequent, and our furry companions, wrapped in their coats, do not have the ability to sweat like we do. When the temperature rises, their bodies are at risk of overheating.
These heatstrokes in dogs are often mild - just as sunstroke can be in humans - but it is still important to remain vigilant. In this guide, we provide you with all the keys to recognize and prevent heatstroke in your dog, and we reveal completely new data obtained thanks to the Minitailz Biotracker by Invoxia.
What is a heatstroke? #
As soon as the body temperature exceeds 104 °F, it is considered a heatstroke. The cooling mechanisms (panting, vasodilation) become overwhelmed. The resulting systemic inflammation affects coagulation, kidneys, heart, and brain: without intervention, multiorgan failure can occur in less than fifteen minutes.
Why are dogs particularly vulnerable to heatstrokes? #
Dogs sweat very little; they mainly release heat through their tongues and respiratory tracts. That’s why you’ve probably noticed that in hot weather, they pant much more.
In addition to this temperature regulation system, there is an insulating coat that retains heat - even more so if it is thick - and the fat under the skin acts as an additional blanket.
Heatstroke in dogs: breeds, profiles, and high-risk situations #
Certain morphologies or contexts increase the danger:
| Risk Factor | Why? | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic | Narrowed airways → less effective panting | Bulldog, Pug, Bulldog |
| Dense or dark coat | Retains/absorbs solar heat | Husky, Chow-chow |
| Extreme age, obesity, heart disease | Reduced cardiovascular capacities | Puppy, senior, obese dog |
| Exercise in high heat | Responsible for 74% of heatstroke cases | Jogging, agility in full sun |
| Poorly ventilated vehicle | Cases related to cars increased by +11.2% in 2023 | Trips, parking |
Symptoms and severity levels of heatstroke in dogs #
Identifying early signs can save precious minutes.
| Level | Rectal Temperature | Clinical Signs | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild | 104–105.8 °F | Intense panting, red mucous membranes | Shade, fresh water, monitor for 30 min |
| Moderate | 105.8–107.6 °F | Vomiting, unsteady gait, tachycardia | Actively cool (water 59–68 °F), consult |
| Severe | > 107.6 °F | Seizures, collapse, coma | “Cool first, transport later”: immediate immersion/spraying then veterinarian |
Preventing heatstroke: 7 simple actions #
To prevent your companion from suffering a heatstroke, you will need to change some of your habits.
- Walks before 9 AM or after 9 PM, shaded routes.
- Fresh water available at all times, fountains, ice cubes.
- No dog left alone in a car; the internal temperature can quickly exceed 122 °F.
- Moderately trim thick coats (leave ≥ 0.8 inches).
- Cooling mats or vests always damp.
- Learn the head dunk for rapid cooling.
- Monitor heart and respiratory rate with the Minitailz GPS Biotracker: sends alerts when breathing becomes too rapid.
Minitailz Biotracker data: your dog’s physiology at your fingertips #
Among the few thousand dogs equipped and monitored by the Minitailz GPS Biotracker, our team notes that the resting respiratory rate increases by an average of 5 breaths per minute during observed heat peaks. The number of alerts sent to our users was multiplied by 7 in June 2025 compared to December 2024.
Quick FAQ on heatstrokes in dogs #
My dog is trembling after being hot: is this normal? Trembling can indicate neurological damage or shock. In this case, consult your veterinarian urgently.
Is a cooling vest enough? Yes, if it remains damp and is accompanied by shade, water, and breaks.
What are the techniques to keep my dog cool and hydrated?
- Wet treats (like pâté) in the freezer for a cool snack
- A small tub or pool filled with lukewarm water to cool the paws
- One or two ice cubes in their water bowl - if your tap water isn’t fresh enough
- A damp towel in places where they usually rest
- Plenty of water games - without using too powerful jets
Can I spray my dog with ice water? No: vasoconstriction slows internal cooling; prefer 59-68 °F. The trend of the Ice Bucket Challenge on dogs is even very dangerous, as reminded by the Independent!
Our dogs rely on us to protect them, especially when heat becomes an invisible but very real danger. They cannot say they are suffocating, too hot, or feeling unwell. They pant, become restless, and sometimes collapse.
Faced with this vulnerability, our role is essential: anticipate, adapt, monitor. Every action counts. Offering water, choosing a cool walk, recognizing worrying signs… it’s also a proof of love. And because a dog cannot speak, tools like the Minitailz GPS Biotracker now allow us to listen to them differently — through their heart, breathing, and reactions to heat. Watching over them allows them to fully enjoy the summer, safely!