What Would Cause a Dog to Overheat?

Dogs release heat through panting and the dilatation of blood vessels of the face, feet and ears. This heat-releasing mechanism is not as efficient as human sweating, so dogs are more prone to overheating or hyperthermia. As a pet owner, you should know the potential causes of overheating and avoid these to prevent complications that typically accompany a heat stroke.

  1. Heat Exposure

    • If your dog is exposed to sun during hot days or to a hot room, such as a sauna, its temperature can increase rapidly. The normal temperature of canines is between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees F. If the pet's temperature is over 105 degrees, the dog is prone to heat exhaustion, while at temperatures over 107 degrees present the danger of a heat stroke. A heat stroke is manifested through confusion, lack of coordination, staring, severe panting, bright red gums, vomiting, seizures, collapse or coma. If the body temperature is not reduced immediately, the dog may suffer from permanent brain damage and other vital organs may also be affected.

    Dog in Parked Car

    • A pet left in a parked car in the sun without air conditioning may quickly overheat. The temperature in a parked car can become extremely high in just a few minutes, even if you leave the windows open. Your dog's temperature will rise as well. Avoid leaving your pet in the car for more than a couple of minutes or leave the air conditioning on.

    Exercising in Heat

    • Exercising during hot summer days is not recommended for canines. They get overheated in matter of minutes. Opt for long walks during summer instead of intensive exercise for your pet and schedule the walks early in the morning or during evenings, when the temperature is slightly lower. Don't encourage your dog to play outside and keep it indoors during the peak temperature hours. Allow your dog to rest during the day, especially after activities. Provide plenty of fresh water for the dog. If your pet has a thick coat, trim it short during the summer months. The puppy cut is ideal for summer.

    Pets at Risk

    • Certain pets are more at risk of developing a heat stroke. Canines with a thick coat or respiratory and cardiovascular problems are more prone to developing a heat stroke. Puppies, senior dogs and dogs on medication may overheat faster. Also, dogs that are overweight have a difficult time adapting their body temperature when exposed to heat. Dogs with short noses, also known as brachycephalic dogs, breathe slowly and may have difficulty releasing heat. Pekingese dogs, pugs, English bulldogs and shih tzus are brachycephalic breeds.