With temperatures once again soaring across the UK, Dogs Trust is urging owners to take extra care in the heat – and to understand that a “smiling” dog isn’t always a happy one.

That open-mouthed expression, often mistaken for a cheerful grin, could in fact be a red flag for heatstroke – a potentially life-threatening condition that can develop rapidly in warm weather. Panting, drooling, drowsiness and even collapse are all signs a dog may be struggling to regulate their body temperature.

Victoria Henry, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust, explains:

“It’s easy to mistake a panting dog for a smiling one, but panting is one of the first signs of heatstroke, which can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, so extra care needs to be taken. As owners, we need to know the signs that our dogs are getting too hot and help them take a rest and cool down when they need to. Some dogs aren’t good at self-regulating and may continue to run and play even though they’re hot and tired, which increases their risk of heatstroke.

If you do spot the signs of heatstroke in your dog, take steps to cool them down and contact your vet immediately.”

Common symptoms include excessive panting, heavy drooling, and your dog appearing unusually lethargic, uncoordinated or drowsy. Vomiting and diarrhoea can also occur – and in serious cases, dogs may collapse altogether.

All dogs can overheat in warm temperatures, but some are more at risk than others. Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs are especially vulnerable due to the shape of their airways. Older dogs, overweight dogs, and those with pre-existing health conditions are also at greater risk.

What To Do

If you suspect your dog may be suffering from heatstroke, Dogs Trust advises owners to act quickly. First, stop any activity immediately and move your dog to a cool, shaded area. For young, healthy dogs, immersion in cold water – such as a paddling pool – can be effective, provided their head is kept safely above water. If immersion isn’t an option, continuous dousing with cold water is the next best thing.

For older dogs or those with health concerns, a gentler approach is best: spray with room temperature water (avoiding the face), and create airflow with a fan or open window. Ice wrapped in a tea towel can be placed under the front legs and in the groin area to help reduce core temperature. It’s vital to monitor your dog as you cool them – and stop if they begin to shiver. Crucially, don’t place a wet towel over them, as this can trap heat rather than release it.

As soon as you begin cooling, contact your vet for advice and prepare to transport your dog. Keep your vehicle cool by using air conditioning or open windows. If your dog collapses or shows signs of severe breathing difficulty, seek emergency veterinary help immediately.

Dogs Trust also reiterates that no dog should ever be left alone in a car during warm weather. Even a few minutes inside a hot vehicle can be fatal. If you see a dog in a car in distress, call 999 immediately.

To find out more about keeping your dog safe this summer, visit:

👉 www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/seasonal/warm-weather