Essential Tips For Keeping Your Dog Safe During A Heat Wave
Posted by Wolf & I Co. on Dec 21, 2025
The Dangers of Hot Weather for Dogs: How to Keep Your Best Mate Safe
Australia’s warm climate is perfect for outdoor adventures, but hot and extreme weather can be dangerous — even deadly — for dogs. Unlike humans, dogs can’t cool down as easily, and even short exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat stress or heatstroke. Understanding what temperatures are unsafe, what warning signs to look for, and how to prevent overheating can literally save your dog’s life.
When is it Too Hot for Dogs?
Dogs can start to struggle once temperatures rise above 25°C, especially if it’s humid, there’s no shade, or your dog is exercising.
|
Temperature |
Risk Level |
Notes |
|
Below 20°C |
Safe |
Comfortable for most breeds. |
|
20–25°C |
Caution |
Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, puppies, seniors, and overweight dogs may overheat. |
|
25–30°C |
Dangerous |
Exercise should be limited to early morning or late evening only. |
|
30°C+ |
Extremely dangerous |
Risk of heatstroke is high — dogs should be kept indoors or in shaded, cool areas. |
Pavement check: If it’s too hot for your bare hand after five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Why Dogs Overheat
Dogs primarily cool themselves by panting. They don’t sweat through their skin like we do — only through their paw pads. Factors that increase heat risk include:
- Thick or dark coats
• Flat faces (e.g. Bulldogs, Pugs, Cavaliers)
• Obesity or health issues
• Young puppies and senior dogs
• High humidity (panting becomes less effective)
Signs of Heat Stress or Heatstroke
Early signs of heat stress:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or unsteady walking
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Seeking shade or lying down suddenly
Severe (heatstroke) signs — a medical emergency:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Collapse or seizures
- Rapid heartbeat
- Glazed eyes or confusion
- Loss of consciousness
If you see these symptoms, act immediately and get your dog to a vet.
What To Do If Your Dog Overheats
- Move to a cool, shaded area immediately.
- Offer small amounts of cool (not icy) water.
- Cool the body — wet towels, a fan, or gently hose with cool water (especially paws, belly, and underarms).
- Contact your vet urgently. Even if your dog seems to recover, internal organ damage can occur after overheating.
Precautions to Prevent Heat Stress
- Avoid exercise during peak heat (10am–4pm). Walk early or late.
- Provide constant shade and fresh water — add ice cubes to water bowls.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car — even for “just a few minutes.” On a 30°C day, the inside of a car can reach 50°C in under 10 minutes.
- Use cooling gear or remove gear — vests, mats, and harnesses made from breathable materials.
- Groom regularly — remove excess undercoat, but don’t shave double-coated breeds.
- Watch humidity — hot, humid days are even riskier than dry heat.
Do What's Right For Your Dog
Dogs rely on us to keep them safe. What feels like a pleasant summer day to you can be extremely uncomfortable for your four-legged friend. By knowing the signs of heat stress, taking precautions, and using common sense, you can help your dog enjoy summer safely and happily.
When in doubt: if it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for your dog.