Heat Stroke in Dogs: It Can Happen Faster Than You Think

By Alli Boumeester | Gemstone Bulldogges

Last summer, I received a phone call that I will never forget.

It was around 9:30 at night when a good friend called me about their French Bulldog—one of the sweetest little dogs you could ever meet.

Earlier that afternoon, they had taken him to the park for what seemed like a perfectly normal outing. He had only been outside for about 10 to 15 minutes. Nothing extreme. Nothing that would have raised concern.

When they got home, he seemed warm, so they did what many loving owners would do. They placed him in his kennel on a cool wet towel, turned on a fan, and ran a quick errand to the grocery store.

By the time they returned, everything had changed.

The dog they left behind was not the dog they came home to.

They called me immediately, hoping there was something that could be done. When I arrived, he had already lost control of his bowels and was unresponsive. I attempted CPR, but sadly, it was too late.

I am not sharing this story to place blame on anyone.

I am sharing it because awareness saves lives.

Many people assume heat stroke only happens when dogs are left in hot cars or spend hours outdoors. The truth is that heat stroke can occur much faster than most owners realize, especially in brachycephalic breeds such as Olde English Bulldogges, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers.

Why Bulldogs Are at Higher Risk

Dogs cool themselves differently than humans.

Humans sweat through their skin. Dogs rely primarily on panting to regulate body temperature.

Brachycephalic breeds have shortened airways, narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palates, and reduced airflow compared to longer-nosed breeds. This means they have a harder time dissipating heat efficiently.

Even dogs with excellent breathing can struggle when temperatures, humidity, excitement, exercise, or stress begin to stack together.

Heat stroke isn't always caused by a single factor. Often it is a combination of:

- Warm temperatures
- High humidity
- Physical activity
- Excitement or stress
- Poor ventilation
- Underlying breathing issues
- Obesity
- Age or health conditions

Sometimes a dog can seem completely normal one moment and be experiencing a medical emergency the next.

What Happens During Heat Stroke?

A normal canine body temperature ranges from approximately 101°F to 102.5°F.

When a dog's temperature rises above 104°F, concern begins.

At temperatures above 106°F, the body's systems begin to fail.

Heat stroke can rapidly cause:

- Brain swelling
- Organ failure
- Intestinal damage
- Blood clotting abnormalities
- Cardiac distress
- Kidney failure
- Shock
- Death

Even if a dog survives, permanent organ damage can occur.

Early Warning Signs of Heat Stroke

Recognizing the early signs can make all the difference.

Watch for:

- Excessive panting
- Rapid breathing
- Bright red gums
- Dark red or purple gums
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness
- Stumbling or wobbling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Glassy eyes
- Disorientation
- Collapse

If you see these signs, treat it as an emergency.

Do not wait to "see if they improve."

What To Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke

1. Move Your Dog Immediately

Get your dog out of the heat and into a shaded or air-conditioned environment.

2. Begin Cooling Slowly

This is important.

Many people instinctively reach for ice water, but rapid cooling can cause blood vessels to constrict and may interfere with proper heat dissipation.

Instead use cool—not ice cold—water.

Focus on:

- Belly
- Armpits
- Groin
- Paw pads
- Neck

3. Apply Cool Wet Towels

Rotate cool towels frequently as they warm up.

4. Increase Airflow

Place a fan nearby to help evaporation and cooling.

5. Offer Small Amounts of Water

Allow your dog to drink small amounts if they are alert and able.

Do not force water.

6. Seek Emergency Veterinary Care

Even if your dog appears to improve, veterinary evaluation is critical.

Internal damage may continue long after body temperature has normalized.

Prevention Is Always Easier Than Treatment

At Gemstone Bulldogges, heat safety is something we discuss regularly with our families.

Some simple prevention tips include:

- Exercise early in the morning or later in the evening.
- Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
- Provide constant access to fresh water.
- Use shade whenever possible.
- Limit outdoor activity on humid days.
- Monitor bulldogs closely during play.
- Never leave dogs in vehicles.
- Learn your dog's personal limits.

Remember that every dog is different.

One dog may tolerate heat surprisingly well, while another may struggle after only a few minutes outside.

A Final Thought

The dog in this story was deeply loved.

His family did not neglect him.

They were good people who experienced a heartbreaking tragedy that happened far faster than anyone expected.

If sharing his story helps even one family recognize the signs of heat stroke sooner, then his memory continues to make a difference.

Our dogs trust us completely.

They trust us to recognize danger before they can.

They trust us to protect them when they cannot protect themselves.

This summer, be their voice.

Be their shade.

Be their safety.

Because sometimes just a few minutes can make all the difference.

— Alli Boumeester
Gemstone Bulldogges
Sioux Falls, South Dakota