Overheating in Dogs: Everything You Need to Know to Protect Your Dog from the Summer Heat

Introduction

For many dog ​​owners, summer is a wonderful time: long walks, trips to the beach, or an afternoon at the park. But for your dog, the heat can actually pose a significant risk. Overheating in dogs is an underestimated problem that affects countless dogs every year – often with serious or even fatal consequences. In this comprehensive guide, we explain everything about this important topic. From causes to symptoms, from prevention tips to the best tools like the Pupcakes Cooling Vest – you'll be well-prepared to keep your dog cool and safe.

What is overheating in dogs?

Overheating , also called heatstroke , occurs when a dog's body temperature rises above a safe limit. A dog's normal body temperature is between 38°C and 39°C . Over 40°C ( 104°F) is considered overheating, and over 41°C (106°F) , vital organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys are at risk.

Dogs can dissipate heat less efficiently than humans. They have very few sweat glands—only a few through their paws—and rely primarily on panting to cool down. But if the environment is too warm or the exertion too intense, this mechanism becomes ineffective.

Causes of overheating in dogs

Overheating happens more quickly than you think – even at temperatures that still feel "comfortable" to humans. These are the most common causes:

1. High outside temperatures

A summer day above 25 degrees Celsius, especially with high humidity, already poses a risk. For dogs, a combination of sun, heat, and a lack of wind or cooling is especially dangerous.

2. Stay in the car

The classic pitfall: "I'll be right back." But even with the windows open, the temperature in a car can rise to life-threatening levels within minutes. Within 10 minutes, it can already exceed 45 degrees Celsius.

3. Intense exercise in the sun

Playing, running, or long walks during warm periods of the day are incredibly demanding on your dog's body. This is especially risky if your dog doesn't communicate its boundaries clearly or keeps pushing out of enthusiasm.

4. Flat-faced breeds (brachycephalic breeds)

Dogs such as the pug, bulldog, shih tzu and boxer have shorter snouts and have difficulty panting, which severely limits their ability to cool down.

5. Thick or long coat

Dogs with a thick undercoat or long hair have difficulty dissipating heat. Think of breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, or Husky.

6. Overweight

An overweight dog is at greater risk because excess fat retains heat and makes breathing difficult.

Symptoms of overheating in dogs

The sooner you recognize the symptoms, the better your chances of preventing worse. Look out for these signs of overheating :

Heavy and rapid panting

Listlessness or lethargy

Increased heart rate

Dark red or purple gums and tongue

Drooling or foaming around the mouth

Vomiting or diarrhea

Disorientation or unsteady gait

Fainting or losing consciousness

Caution: If a dog vomits, becomes unstable, or unresponsive, this is a medical emergency. Act immediately.

First aid for overheating

If you suspect your dog is overheated, act immediately . Time is crucial.

1. Take your dog to a cool place (shade or indoor area with ventilation).

2. Cool the body with lukewarm water , especially on the abdomen, armpits, and legs. Never use ice-cold water, as this can constrict blood vessels and retain heat.

3. Let your dog drink small sips of water. Don't force him.

4. Place a wet towel on him or use a cooling vest like the Pupcakes Cooling Vest.

5. Contact a vet as soon as possible , even if you think your dog is better again.


Prevention: How to prevent your dog from overheating?

✅ 1. Walking during cool moments

Go for a walk early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower.

✅ 2. Sufficient shade and water

Always provide fresh water and a shady spot. No dog should be left in direct sunlight during extreme heat.

✅ 3. Never leave in the car

Not even “for 5 minutes.” The temperature rises rapidly and cracking a window isn’t enough.

✅ 4. Use cooling aids

Think of wet wipes, cooling mats, a dog pool or a specially designed cooling vest .

The Pupcakes Cooling Vest: Your Best Weapon Against Overheating

A simple and effective way to keep your dog cool is the Pupcakes Cooling Vest .

This innovative vest works without electricity or cooling elements. Simply wet the vest, wring it out, and put it on your dog. Evaporation creates a natural cooling effect that lasts up to an hour.

Why choose the Pupcakes Cooling Vest?

Instant cooling in warm weather

Perfect for walks or car rides

Comfortable fit without restricting movement

Combines a cooling vest with an integrated leash function

Available in different sizes for every dog ​​breed

The Pupcakes Cooling Vest is ideal for dog owners who want to actively protect their dog from overheating , without sacrificing comfort or freedom of movement.

👉 Check out the cooling vest here: Pupcakes Cooling Vest

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