Heatstroke is a true emergency, so know the signs: frantic or excessive panting, thick drooling, bright red or dark/bluish gums, glassy eyes, weakness, stumbling, vomiting, disorientation, and eventually collapse or seizures. Normal dog temperature is about 101–102.5°F; above ~104°F is dangerous and above ~106°F is critical. If you see these signs, act immediately — heatstroke can damage organs and kill within minutes.
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Cool him down, then get to a vet. Move him to shade or AC, offer small amounts of cool water, and cool his body with COOL (not ice-cold) water over the belly, groin, armpits, and paws, using a fan to boost evaporation. Do NOT use ice or ice-cold water — it can constrict blood vessels and trap heat. Then see a vet even if he seems to bounce back, because heatstroke can cause delayed internal organ damage.
Work with your dog's cooling limits. Exercise in the cooler parts of the day and skip midday heat; on hot or humid days, trade sprints for steady low-intensity activity or swimming. Bring water, take shade breaks, and check the pavement — if it's too hot for your palm for 5 seconds, it'll burn paw pads. Let your dog set the pace; a self-imposed break is smart self-preservation, not laziness.
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers are highest risk because their airways make panting inefficient. Dark-coated and thick double-coated dogs trap more heat; overweight dogs, seniors, puppies, and dogs with heart or breathing conditions all struggle more. If your dog fits any of these, be especially conservative — shorter sessions, more shade and water, and lean on swimming as the safest hot-weather exercise.
Educational only — not veterinary advice. Always work with your vet, especially if your dog is on medication.
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