How to tell if a dog is hot? - briefly
To determine if a dog is hot, observe its panting and drooling. If these are excessive, accompanied by red gums or lethargy, it may be overheated. Additionally, feel the dog's ears and paws; if they feel unusually warm, this could indicate heat stress.
How to tell if a dog is hot? - in detail
To determine if a dog is overheating, it's crucial to observe both physical signs and behavioral changes. Dogs rely on panting as their primary means of cooling down, so excessive or rapid panting is often the first sign of heat stress. Additionally, look for symptoms such as drooling, bright red gums, a rapid heart rate, and lethargy. If the dog's temperature rises significantly above normal (around 100-102°F or 37.8-38.9°C), they may exhibit signs of heat exhaustion, including weakness, dizziness, and even collapse. It's also important to note that dogs with short snouts, such as Pugs and Bulldogs, are more prone to overheating due to their breathing difficulties. Regularly checking your dog for these symptoms during hot weather can help prevent heat-related issues and ensure their well-being.