Introduction
Overheating can be extremely dangerous for dogs. Dogs pant to evaporate moisture from their tongues, which takes heat away from their body and cools them off. However, if they become overheated, dogs can’t pant fast enough to effectively cool down. The humidity in the air also makes it difficult for this evaporation process to work properly. If a dog’s body temperature rises above 104°F, it’s at risk of heat stroke, which can lead to organ damage and even death if left untreated. Some breeds are more prone to overheating than others. That’s why it’s important for dog owners to be aware of the signs of overheating in their furry companions and take steps to prevent it, especially during hot summer weather. This article covers everything you need to know to keep your dog cool and comfortable while sleeping during the warm summer months.
Normal Dog Temperature
A dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 99.5°F and 102.5°F (37.5°C and 39.2°C) (https://petcube.com/blog/dog-normal-body-temperature/). Unlike humans, who have a consistent normal temperature of 98.6°F, a dog’s normal temperature can vary by several degrees. This is because a dog’s temperature fluctuates throughout the day in response to their activity levels and the ambient temperature. The dog’s temperature is lowest in the early morning and highest in the evening. Smaller fluctuations of about 1°F throughout the day are also normal.
It’s important to establish what your individual dog’s normal temperature range is when they are healthy. The most accurate way to take a dog’s temperature is rectally using a special dog thermometer. Normal varies slightly based on the dog’s age and breed, but the range of 99.5-102.5°F is considered standard for an average adult dog (https://toegrips.com/how-to-take-dogs-temperature/).
Signs of Overheating
There are several clear signs that indicate your dog may be overheating, especially at night when sleeping:
- Excessive panting – Dogs pant to lower their body temperature, so frequent heavy panting is a key sign of overheating.
- Bright red gums or tongue – The membranes in a dog’s mouth should be pink, so bright red coloring can signal overheating.
- Increased salivation or drooling – Dogs produce more saliva to try to cool down when overheated.
- Rapid breathing – Overheated dogs will breathe faster as their body tries to get more oxygen.
- Lethargy – An overheated dog may seem very tired and not want to move around.
- Elevated body temperature – A dog’s normal temperature is 100-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, so a higher reading could indicate overheating.
Pay close attention if your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, especially on hot nights. Left untreated, overheating can advance to heat stroke, which requires emergency veterinary care. If you notice any of these signs, take steps to cool your dog down immediately.
Breeds Prone to Overheating
Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to overheating and heat stroke due to their physical characteristics. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs, bulldogs, Pekingese, and shih tzus have short snouts and narrowed nostrils that make it difficult for them to pant and breathe efficiently in hot weather. These dogs cannot cool themselves as effectively as dogs with longer snouts.
Overweight or obese dogs are also at higher risk for overheating because excess body fat acts as insulation, preventing body heat from escaping. Senior dogs and puppies are more vulnerable as well. Puppies haven’t fully developed temperature regulation, while older dogs may have impaired ability to regulate body temperature.
In addition, dogs with thick, heavy coats like huskies, Malamutes, chows, and Akitas are prone to getting overheated in summer or warm climates. Their thick fur prevents heat dissipation. Short-nosed, chubby, elderly, or heavy-coated dogs require extra precautions in warm weather.
Ideal Sleeping Temperature
The ideal temperature for your dog to sleep is between 22°C and 27°C (72°F – 80°F), according to veterinarians (https://www.derppets.com/what-temperature-do-poodles-like-to-sleep-in/). Dogs have a normal body temperature of 38–39°C (101–102°F) and generate more body heat when sleeping. If the room temperature falls below 22°C (72°F), your dog may get cold overnight. Temperatures over 27°C (80°F) can cause dogs to overheat, especially breeds with thick coats.
Aim to keep your home’s temperature between 22-27°C (72-80°F) at night to provide an optimal and comfortable sleep environment for your dog. Adjust the thermostat or use fans/heaters to maintain the ideal temperature range. Monitor your dog’s comfort level – if they seem restless or seek out cool floors, the room may be too warm. Thinner blankets may be needed in warmer weather. Pay extra attention to temperature if your dog is young, old, sick, or has a thick coat prone to overheating.
Tips to Keep Dogs Cool
There are several tips pet owners can follow to help keep their dogs cool and prevent overheating, especially during hot summer months:
– Provide access to shade and avoid having dogs out in direct sunlight during peak hours. Trees, covered porches, shade structures, and dog houses can provide cool spots.
https://dogstodaymagazine.co.uk/2022/08/24/top-tips-to-keep-your-dog-cool-on-summer-nights/
– Use cooling mats, beds, or towels. These provide a cool surface for dogs to lay on. Gel or water-based mats are designed to pull heat away from a dog’s body.
– Provide plenty of cool, fresh water to prevent dehydration. Add ice cubes to make the water extra refreshing. Use spill-proof bowls.
– Never leave dogs unattended in vehicles, even with windows cracked. Vehicle interiors heat up rapidly.
– Exercise dogs in the cooler early morning or evening hours, avoiding the hottest times of day. Adjust intensity for weather.
– Consider clipping long-haired breeds to prevent overheating. But don’t shave down to the skin which removes natural protection from the sun.
– Make sure dogs have access to well-ventilated areas. Use fans to circulate air if needed.
– Give dogs damp towel baths or let them splash in a kiddie pool to quickly cool down.
– Speak with your vet about overheating risks and prevention based on your dog’s health, breed, and lifestyle.
Signs of Heat Stroke
Some signs of heat stroke in dogs require emergency veterinary care. According to the Whole Dog Journal (https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/health/heat-stroke-in-dogs-2/), severe panting, difficulty breathing, bright red gums, thick saliva, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, seizures, and collapse all indicate dangerous heat stroke requiring immediate veterinary treatment. The Purina article (https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/dogs/health/symptoms/heatstroke-in-your-dog) adds that symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, while seizures, coma and unconsciousness are signs the brain is affected and emergency care is needed.
Preventing Heat Stroke
There are some key steps you can take to help prevent heat stroke in your dog:
- Keep your dog indoors during extremely hot weather. Air conditioning is the best way to keep your dog cool (Source: https://theuniversityanimalclinic.com/tips-for-preventing-heat-exhaustion-heat-stroke-in-dogs-this-summer/).
- Make sure your dog has access to shade when outdoors. Trees or a cool shelter are ideal (Source: https://www.thefarmersdog.com/digest/how-to-prevent-heat-stroke-in-dogs/).
- Ensure your dog has cool, fresh water available at all times.
- Limit exercise and outside time during peak heat hours (midday). Take walks in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
- Never leave your dog in a hot car, even for a few minutes.
- Consider a cooling vest or mat to help regulate your dog’s temperature.
Pay extra attention to signs of overheating and make adjustments if your dog seems uncomfortable in the heat. Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to heat stroke.
Treating Mild Overheating
If your dog is showing early signs of overheating such as heavy panting or lethargy, it’s important to take action quickly before it progresses to heat stroke. The first thing to do is to move your dog out of the heat and into a shaded or air-conditioned area. Use cool, not cold, water to help lower your dog’s body temperature. You can pour water over your dog’s body, focusing on the head, neck, and paws, or soak towels in cool water and drape them over your dog’s back to help cool them down. Set up fans to create airflow around your dog as well. Offer your dog cool, not icy, water to drink frequently in small amounts. Stop exercising your dog and let them rest, keeping a close eye on them until their panting and body temperature returns to normal.
Some sources recommend giving dogs with mild overheating symptoms cool foods like frozen treats or canned pumpkin to help bring their temperature down from the inside. Just be sure not to give too much to avoid vomiting or diarrhea. As your dog recovers, monitor for any return of overheating symptoms. With prompt first aid treatment, mild overheating often resolves on its own as long as you continue to keep your dog cool. But if symptoms persist or worsen, take your dog to the vet right away as it could quickly escalate into heat stroke.
Sources:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/summer-safety–322218548317524966/
https://www.facebook.com/idreamofdoggy/
When to Call the Vet
If your dog is showing signs of heatstroke such as excessive panting, drooling, weakness, confusion, vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse, you should call your veterinarian immediately or take them to the emergency vet right away. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that requires rapid veterinary treatment. According to the ASPCA, temperatures over 104°F put dogs at risk of organ damage and even death (theshotspot.org).
Other signs that warrant an urgent vet visit include seizures, bright red or dark gums, an elevated heart rate, and thick sticky saliva. Prolonged heavy panting or breathing distress also requires professional help. Older dogs, puppies, and brachycephalic breeds like Pugs are especially vulnerable to heat-related issues.
If you notice any signs of heatstroke, start cooling your dog down while you call the vet or drive to the clinic. The vet will provide rapid cooling, IV fluids, oxygen therapy, and medication as needed. They will monitor your dog’s temperature, blood work, and organ function. With prompt treatment, many dogs fully recover from heatstroke but delays can be fatal (smalldoorvet.com). Call your vet right away if you suspect heatstroke.