CanlıDostum⚡ In short
- Heatstroke is an emergency: start cooling and go to a vet.
- Use cool or lukewarm water, not ice.
- Flat-faced breeds and senior, overweight or heart-disease dogs are most at risk.
- Never leave a dog in a hot car — even for a few minutes.
Signs of heatstroke
- Heavy, fast panting; breathing difficulty
- Dark red or purple gums and tongue
- Heavy drooling
- Weakness, wobbling, collapse
- Vomiting and diarrhoea (sometimes bloody)
- Tremors, seizures, confusion
🚨Start first aid and call the nearest vet. Organ damage can show hours later even if your dog seems better — always get a check-up.
First aid
- Move your dog to shade or a cool place.
- Wet the body — belly, armpits and paws — with cool or lukewarm water. No ice.
- Use a fan or air conditioning.
- If conscious, offer small sips of water; don't force it.
- Don't leave a wet towel lying on the dog; it can trap heat.
- Keep cooling on the way to the vet.
Keep your pet's health records in one placeVaccines, medications, vet visits and weight in CanlıDostum.
Get the appWho is most at risk?
- Flat-faced breeds: French Bulldog, Pug, Bulldog, Boxer, Shih Tzu — see the French Bulldog page
- Thick-coated breeds: Husky, Chow Chow, Kangal
- Puppies and seniors
- Overweight dogs and those with heart or breathing disease
Prevention
- Hot cars: temperatures rise to dangerous levels within minutes; an open window is not enough.
- Walk early in the morning and late in the evening.
- Pavement test: if you can't hold the back of your hand on it for 5 seconds, it's too hot for paws.
- Always provide shade and water.
- Shorten intense play in the heat; don't shave double coats.
Frequently asked questions
What do I do if my dog has heatstroke?
Move it to shade, wet it with cool or lukewarm water, use a fan and go to the vet now. No ice.
How long can I leave my dog in the car?
On a warm or sunny day, not at all. Car temperatures rise to dangerous levels within minutes.
Which breeds are most sensitive to heat?
Flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs and Bulldogs, and thick-coated breeds.
⚠️This article is for general information and does not replace an examination or advice from a veterinarian. If you suspect a health problem, contact your vet.