Heatstroke in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Heatstroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can happen when a dog gets too hot. A dog’s normal body temperature sits around 38–39°C. If it climbs over 40°C, things can become dangerous fast—leading to seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, or even death.
The sooner you cool your dog down and get veterinary help, the better their chances of a full recovery.
Heatstroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can happen when a dog gets too hot. A dog’s normal body temperature sits around 38–39°C. If it climbs over 40°C, things can become dangerous fast—leading to seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, or even death.
The sooner you cool your dog down and get veterinary help, the better their chances of a full recovery.
Dogs most at risk:
Flat-faced breeds (like Pugs or Bulldogs)
Overweight dogs
Giant breeds
Dogs with thick coats
Puppies and senior dogs
Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Mild symptoms:
Panting
Fast or labored breathing
Low energy
Moderate symptoms:
Drooling or foaming at the mouth
Vomiting or diarrhea
Red or pale gums
Shaking
Weakness or collapse
Severe symptoms:
Confusion
Seizures
Unconsciousness
Vomiting/diarrhea with blood
Heatstroke
Flat-faced breeds (like Pugs or Bulldogs)
Overweight dogs
Giant breeds
Dogs with thick coats
Puppies and senior dogs
Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Mild symptoms:
Panting
Fast or labored breathing
Low energy
Moderate symptoms:
Drooling or foaming at the mouth
Vomiting or diarrhea
Red or pale gums
Shaking
Weakness or collapse
Severe symptoms:
Confusion
Seizures
Unconsciousness
Vomiting/diarrhea with blood
Heatstroke
What To Do If You Suspect Heatstroke
Time is everything—act quickly but stay calm.
Step 1: Move to a Cool Area
Get your dog indoors or into shade right away.
Step 2: Start Cooling Immediately
Pour cool (not cold) water over them—slowly at first, then more thoroughly.
Avoid their nose and mouth to prevent choking.
If they’re calm and used to water, you can submerge their body (not head) in water.
Create airflow with a fan or open windows.
Offer small sips of cold water—don’t force it.
Lay them on a cold, wet towel or place an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) between their thighs.
Avoid cuddling or wrapping them in towels—it can trap heat.
Step 3: Call Your Vet Immediately
Even if your dog starts to seem better, a vet check is essential.
Transport them in an air-conditioned car or with windows open—and keep cooling them on the way if you can.
Keeping an eye on your dog during warm weather and knowing the signs of heatstroke can make all the difference. If in doubt, it’s always better to act fast and get help.
Time is everything—act quickly but stay calm.
Step 1: Move to a Cool Area
Get your dog indoors or into shade right away.
Step 2: Start Cooling Immediately
Pour cool (not cold) water over them—slowly at first, then more thoroughly.
Avoid their nose and mouth to prevent choking.
If they’re calm and used to water, you can submerge their body (not head) in water.
Create airflow with a fan or open windows.
Offer small sips of cold water—don’t force it.
Lay them on a cold, wet towel or place an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) between their thighs.
Avoid cuddling or wrapping them in towels—it can trap heat.
Step 3: Call Your Vet Immediately
Even if your dog starts to seem better, a vet check is essential.
Transport them in an air-conditioned car or with windows open—and keep cooling them on the way if you can.
Keeping an eye on your dog during warm weather and knowing the signs of heatstroke can make all the difference. If in doubt, it’s always better to act fast and get help.
5 Easy Ways to Care for Your Pet’s Teeth at Home
1. Dental Toys
Toys like those from KONG are designed with dental health in mind. The textures help scrub away plaque while giving your pup a satisfying chew—and a mental workout too! Plus, they stimulate the gums for a full-mouth benefit.
2. Brushing Their Teeth
We get it—brushing your pet’s teeth can be a challenge! Start slowly and go at their pace. Use a finger brush and enzymatic pet toothpaste (never human toothpaste), which naturally breaks down plaque and combats bad breath.
👉 Pro tip: Try a 7-day brushing introduction—a slow and gentle way to get your pet used to the routine. Tooth wipes can also help if brushing isn't an option.
3. Water Additives
A great brush-free option! Add a pet-safe enzymatic formula to their water bowl. Every sip helps freshen breath and reduce bacteria. Avoid products with xylitol, alcohol, or chlorhexidine—these can be harmful.
Perfect for pets with sore gums or missing teeth!
4. Dental Treats & Special Foods
Some treats help “brush” your pet’s teeth as they chew. Just be mindful of calories—check the label and adjust meals accordingly. You can also find dental-supportive foods designed to reduce plaque and tartar.
5. Support from the Inside-Out
Feeding a low-carb, species-appropriate diet (think meats, fish, and eggs) supports healthy teeth by limiting sugar. Adding oral probiotics to their routine has also been shown to help fight off bad bacteria and improve gum health.
1. Dental Toys
Toys like those from KONG are designed with dental health in mind. The textures help scrub away plaque while giving your pup a satisfying chew—and a mental workout too! Plus, they stimulate the gums for a full-mouth benefit.
2. Brushing Their Teeth
We get it—brushing your pet’s teeth can be a challenge! Start slowly and go at their pace. Use a finger brush and enzymatic pet toothpaste (never human toothpaste), which naturally breaks down plaque and combats bad breath.
👉 Pro tip: Try a 7-day brushing introduction—a slow and gentle way to get your pet used to the routine. Tooth wipes can also help if brushing isn't an option.
3. Water Additives
A great brush-free option! Add a pet-safe enzymatic formula to their water bowl. Every sip helps freshen breath and reduce bacteria. Avoid products with xylitol, alcohol, or chlorhexidine—these can be harmful.
Perfect for pets with sore gums or missing teeth!
4. Dental Treats & Special Foods
Some treats help “brush” your pet’s teeth as they chew. Just be mindful of calories—check the label and adjust meals accordingly. You can also find dental-supportive foods designed to reduce plaque and tartar.
5. Support from the Inside-Out
Feeding a low-carb, species-appropriate diet (think meats, fish, and eggs) supports healthy teeth by limiting sugar. Adding oral probiotics to their routine has also been shown to help fight off bad bacteria and improve gum health.
Signs of Dental Disease in Pets:
Bad breath (that stinky, sour smell!)
Red or swollen gums
Excessive drooling
Weight loss
Loose or missing teeth
Routine yearly dental cleanings with your vet are highly recommended. During those checkups, your vet can spot the early signs of dental disease and guide you on the right treatment plan.
But what you do at home between visits is just as important!
Our Recommendation
For the best results, we suggest combining one manual method (like brushing or toys) with one enzymatic or probiotic support (like a water additive or supplement). And don’t forget to keep things fun—rotate dental toys and try out different KONG stuffing recipes with dog-friendly ingredients like chicken, pumpkin, plain yogurt, or beef.
Keeping your pet’s teeth healthy doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be part of a daily routine they enjoy!
Bad breath (that stinky, sour smell!)
Red or swollen gums
Excessive drooling
Weight loss
Loose or missing teeth
Routine yearly dental cleanings with your vet are highly recommended. During those checkups, your vet can spot the early signs of dental disease and guide you on the right treatment plan.
But what you do at home between visits is just as important!
Our Recommendation
For the best results, we suggest combining one manual method (like brushing or toys) with one enzymatic or probiotic support (like a water additive or supplement). And don’t forget to keep things fun—rotate dental toys and try out different KONG stuffing recipes with dog-friendly ingredients like chicken, pumpkin, plain yogurt, or beef.
Keeping your pet’s teeth healthy doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be part of a daily routine they enjoy!
👻Stress and Anxiety in Dogs
Just like us, dogs can experience stress—and it can have a significant impact on their behaviour, health, and overall quality of life. Whether triggered by environmental changes, unfamiliar situations, or everyday anxieties, recognising and managing stress is a key part of responsible pet ownership. In this guide, we’ll explore how to spot the signs of stress in dogs and offer practical strategies to help them feel calm, secure, and supported.
Understanding and Managing Stress in Dogs-
Stress is a natural part of life, affecting both humans and animals. Dogs, as social and emotionally sensitive creatures, are particularly prone to stress. Being able to identify signs of stress and implement supportive strategies is vital to ensuring their long-term health and well-being. By creating a calm, consistent environment and responding appropriately to their needs, we can help dogs lead more content and balanced lives.
Stress is a natural part of life, affecting both humans and animals. Dogs, as social and emotionally sensitive creatures, are particularly prone to stress. Being able to identify signs of stress and implement supportive strategies is vital to ensuring their long-term health and well-being. By creating a calm, consistent environment and responding appropriately to their needs, we can help dogs lead more content and balanced lives.
Recognising the Signs of Stress-
Stress in dogs can arise from a range of sources—changes in their environment, disruptions in routine, separation anxiety, noise sensitivity, fear-based reactions, or physical discomfort. It's important to note that stress manifests differently depending on the individual dog. Common signs include:
Excessive barking or vocalisation
Aggression or reactivity
Destructive behaviour
Excessive panting or pacing
Changes in appetite
Restlessness or withdrawal
Alterations in body language, such as crouching, tail tucking, or avoiding eye contact
Early intervention is key. Understanding these signals allows us to act before stress escalates into more serious behavioural or health issues.
Stress in dogs can arise from a range of sources—changes in their environment, disruptions in routine, separation anxiety, noise sensitivity, fear-based reactions, or physical discomfort. It's important to note that stress manifests differently depending on the individual dog. Common signs include:
Excessive barking or vocalisation
Aggression or reactivity
Destructive behaviour
Excessive panting or pacing
Changes in appetite
Restlessness or withdrawal
Alterations in body language, such as crouching, tail tucking, or avoiding eye contact
Early intervention is key. Understanding these signals allows us to act before stress escalates into more serious behavioural or health issues.
Creating a Consistent, Predictable Environment-
Dogs thrive on routine and predictability. Maintaining consistent schedules for feeding, walking, and rest helps build a sense of security. Establishing dedicated spaces within the home—such as a quiet crate, bed, or gated area—offers a reliable retreat where dogs can rest undisturbed. These safe zones can be especially helpful during times of change or increased activity in the home.
Dogs thrive on routine and predictability. Maintaining consistent schedules for feeding, walking, and rest helps build a sense of security. Establishing dedicated spaces within the home—such as a quiet crate, bed, or gated area—offers a reliable retreat where dogs can rest undisturbed. These safe zones can be especially helpful during times of change or increased activity in the home.
Exercise and Enrichment-
Regular physical activity plays a critical role in reducing stress. Whether it’s a long walk, playtime in the garden, or interactive games such as fetch or scent work, exercise helps release excess energy and stimulates the production of endorphins—natural mood boosters. Mentally enriching activities, such as puzzle toys or training sessions, also engage a dog’s mind and provide constructive outlets for their energy.
Regular physical activity plays a critical role in reducing stress. Whether it’s a long walk, playtime in the garden, or interactive games such as fetch or scent work, exercise helps release excess energy and stimulates the production of endorphins—natural mood boosters. Mentally enriching activities, such as puzzle toys or training sessions, also engage a dog’s mind and provide constructive outlets for their energy.
The Importance of Socialisation-
A well-socialised dog is more resilient and better equipped to handle new situations. Introducing dogs to a variety of environments, people, and other animals helps build confidence. However, socialisation should always be done gradually and positively. Overexposure or forced interaction can have the opposite effect, increasing anxiety rather than reducing it.
A well-socialised dog is more resilient and better equipped to handle new situations. Introducing dogs to a variety of environments, people, and other animals helps build confidence. However, socialisation should always be done gradually and positively. Overexposure or forced interaction can have the opposite effect, increasing anxiety rather than reducing it.
Creating a Calm Atmosphere-
Environmental adjustments can greatly influence a dog’s stress levels. Playing calming music, using pheromone diffusers, or introducing gentle scents such as lavender or chamomile can contribute to a more relaxed atmosphere. Providing access to chew toys, enrichment items, or long-lasting treats can also help redirect anxiety-driven behaviour into calming activity.
Environmental adjustments can greatly influence a dog’s stress levels. Playing calming music, using pheromone diffusers, or introducing gentle scents such as lavender or chamomile can contribute to a more relaxed atmosphere. Providing access to chew toys, enrichment items, or long-lasting treats can also help redirect anxiety-driven behaviour into calming activity.
Respecting Individual Needs-
All dogs are individuals. Some may need more space or take longer to adjust to changes. Allow them to retreat when they choose and avoid forcing interaction. For dogs that are more reserved or fearful, patience and gentle encouragement—often through the use of treats or positive reinforcement—can gradually build trust.
All dogs are individuals. Some may need more space or take longer to adjust to changes. Allow them to retreat when they choose and avoid forcing interaction. For dogs that are more reserved or fearful, patience and gentle encouragement—often through the use of treats or positive reinforcement—can gradually build trust.
Introducing New Experiences Slowly-
Whether it’s meeting new people or other animals, introductions should be taken slowly and always paired with positive reinforcement. Keep early experiences low-pressure, rewarding calm behaviour with treats, toys, or gentle praise. Avoid overwhelming situations, such as busy gatherings or noisy environments, especially during periods of transition or adjustment.
Whether it’s meeting new people or other animals, introductions should be taken slowly and always paired with positive reinforcement. Keep early experiences low-pressure, rewarding calm behaviour with treats, toys, or gentle praise. Avoid overwhelming situations, such as busy gatherings or noisy environments, especially during periods of transition or adjustment.