Dogs overheat fast. Faster than you think. A medium-sized dog on a 75°F day can hit dangerous core temperatures in 15 minutes if they have been running.
Here are the signs to watch for, in the order they appear.
Minute 0–5: Heavy panting
Normal panting is open-mouthed and rhythmic. Heavy panting is faster, with the tongue extended further than usual. This is the early warning.
Minute 5–10: Drool, wide eyes, slowing pace
If your dog goes from leading the walk to lagging behind, they are telling you something. Stop. Find shade.
Minute 10+: Bright red gums, stumbling
This is heat stroke. Get them to water immediately, cool their belly with a wet cloth, and call your vet.
The simplest prevention: bring water on every walk longer than 20 minutes when it is above 70°F. Not a sip — actual access to drink whenever they slow down.
Never get caught without water again.
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