Dogs can't sweat the way we do — they rely mostly on panting and a small amount of sweat through their paw pads, which makes them far more vulnerable to overheating than most owners realize. Here's what to watch for.
1. Heavy, non-stop panting
Some panting is normal after play or a walk. Panting that doesn't slow down after rest, or that sounds frantic, is a red flag.
2. Bright red gums or tongue
Healthy gums are usually pink. Deep red, purple, or pale gums can signal your dog's body is struggling to regulate its temperature.
3. Excessive drooling
A sudden increase in drool, especially thick or stringy saliva, is a common early sign of heat stress.
4. Stumbling, weakness, or disorientation
If your dog seems wobbly, confused, or unusually clumsy, stop activity immediately and move them somewhere cool.
5. Vomiting or diarrhea
These can appear as heat exhaustion progresses and should be treated as urgent, not just an upset stomach.
What to do
Move your dog to shade or air conditioning right away, offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water, and apply a cooling mat, vest, or damp towel to their neck, chest, and paws. If symptoms don't improve within a few minutes, or if your dog collapses or has severe symptoms, call your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately — heatstroke can become life-threatening quickly.
Prevention is always easier than treatment: avoid peak-heat walks, always carry water, and keep a cooling product on hand for hot days. It's exactly why we built PawBreeze in the first place.