Heatstroke in Dogs: A Los Angeles Dog Walkers Guide

Summer sunshine is beautiful, but rising temperatures can put dogs at serious risk. Heatstroke in dogs is a life-threatening emergency that can happen quickly — even on days that don’t feel dangerously hot to us. At The BFF Club, your Los Angeles dog walkers, we want to make sure every pet parent knows the signs, the risks, and the safest walking practices during hot weather.

What Heatstroke in Dogs Looks Like

Dogs don’t sweat like we do. Instead, they rely on panting and their paw pads to release heat. When those systems are overwhelmed, their body temperature can skyrocket. Watch for these signs of dog heatstroke:

• Heavy or excessive panting

• Bright red, very pale, or dark gums and tongue

• Drooling more than usual

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Weakness, wobbling, or collapse

• Confusion or glazed eyes

• Seizures or unresponsiveness

If you see these symptoms, it’s an emergency.

What to Do if Your Dog Has Heatstroke

If you suspect heatstroke in dogs, act immediately:

1. Get them out of the heat. Move to shade or an air-conditioned space.

2. Cool safely. Pour cool (not ice-cold) water over your dog’s body, focusing on the belly, groin, underarms, and paws. Use a fan or breeze to speed up cooling.

   • Avoid soaking the head/face.

   • Focus on areas with less fur.

   • Don’t drape wet towels over the body (they can trap heat).

3. Offer small sips of water. Never force them to drink.

4. Continue cooling until they improve or until body temperature drops to about 103°F (if you have a thermometer).

5. Call your vet right away. If symptoms are severe or not improving, head directly to an emergency clinic and continue cooling en route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to wet a dog during heatstroke?

Yes — but do it safely. Use cool (not ice-cold) water, focus on areas like the belly, groin, underarms, and paws, and pair it with airflow (fan or breeze). Avoid ice baths and don’t drape wet towels over the body, as they can trap heat.

How hot is too hot to walk a dog on pavement?

Pavement can get 40°F hotter than the air. If you can’t hold the back of your hand to it for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Stick to grass, dirt paths, or shaded routes.

What breeds are most at risk for heatstroke?

Short-nosed breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Frenchies), senior dogs, puppies, overweight pets, and dogs with thick coats or health issues are at the highest risk.

When should I go to the vet for heatstroke?

Always err on the side of caution. If your dog shows moderate to severe symptoms (collapse, confusion, vomiting, seizures) or doesn’t improve quickly after cooling, get to the nearest vet immediately — continue cooling en route.

How can I prevent heatstroke on walks?

• Schedule walks for morning or evening.

• Choose shaded routes and grass over pavement.

• Carry water and a portable bowl.

• Keep walks shorter and slower on hot days.

• Pay extra attention to high-risk breeds.

Our Promise to You

As trusted dog walkers in Los Angeles, we’re trained to spot the earliest signs of heatstroke and act immediately. If conditions are unsafe, we will always shorten or reschedule walks to prioritize your dog’s health.

Keeping your best friend safe, happy, and healthy is at the heart of everything we do.