From Tongue Out to Time Out, What are the Signs Your Pup is Overheating??
Arizona summers don’t play around — and neither should you when it comes to your dog’s safety. While you might enjoy a quick dip in the pool or a blast of A/C, your pup is stuck in a fur coat year-round. Overheating can sneak up fast, but the good news is: you can spot it before it gets serious and take action to keep your dog safe and happy.
Here are the top 5 signs your dog is getting too hot — plus how to keep the fun going without the meltdown.
1. Tongue Out… Like, Way Out 👅
Panting is a dog’s natural way to cool down, but excessive panting — especially when they haven’t been very active — is a red flag. If your pup’s tongue is hanging out like they just ran a marathon while standing still, it’s time to take a break. This is often the first and most visible sign that their body is struggling to regulate temperature.
💬 “Tongue longer than your Netflix queue? 👅 Might be time for a water break.”
2. Slobber Fest 💦
Some dogs drool more than others, but a sudden increase in slobber — especially thick, sticky drool — can be a sign of overheating. If your dog starts leaving puddles wherever they go, it’s their way of saying, “I’m too hot!” Excessive drooling is the body’s attempt to cool down, and it shouldn’t be ignored.
💬 “Drool puddles > kiddie pools? Houston, we have a problem. 🥵”
3. Wobbly Walk or “Drunk Puppy” Steps 🚶♂️
Heat exhaustion can affect your dog’s coordination, making them appear dizzy or unsteady on their feet. If your pup starts stumbling, swaying, or walking like they’ve had one too many — and all they’ve had is water — it’s a serious warning sign. Get them into a cool environment immediately and monitor closely.
💬 “When your dog looks tipsy… but they’ve only had water. 🐶🚨”
4. Suddenly Super Slow 💤
If your usually energetic dog suddenly refuses to play, slows down dramatically, or lies down mid-walk, they may be overheating. Dogs instinctively try to conserve energy when they’re too hot, and this behavior is their way of protecting themselves. Don’t push them — instead, offer water and shade or head indoors.
💬 “From zoomies ➡️ to melties in 0.5 seconds flat.”
5. Vomiting or Collapse 🚨
This is the most serious sign and requires immediate action. If your dog vomits, collapses, or seems confused or disoriented, they may be experiencing heatstroke — a life-threatening condition. Move them to a cool area, offer water, and contact your vet right away.
💬 “No joke: overheating can turn dangerous FAST. Know the signs. 💡”
✅ How to Prevent Overheating
Walk smart: Stick to early mornings or late evenings when the pavement is cooler and the sun is less intense.
Water warrior: Always carry fresh water and a collapsible bowl for hydration on the go.
Check the ground: If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws — asphalt can burn in seconds.
Indoor play saves the day: Climate-controlled spaces like All Dogs Indoor Dog Park offer safe, fun alternatives to outdoor walks.
🌟 Coming Spring 2026: All Dogs Tempe Indoor Dog Park
Here’s the real prevention hack: indoor playtime. Forget sizzling sidewalks and panting pups — imagine climate-controlled zoomies, safe play areas, and a whole community of dog parents who get it. All Dogs Tempe Indoor Dog Park is opening in Spring 2026, and it’s designed to keep dogs cool, active, and social — no matter the season.
Whether your pup loves fetch, chase, or just lounging in the A/C, All Dogs is the ultimate summer solution. With locations expanding to North Scottsdale, Gilbert, Buckeye, Tucson, and Las Vegas, cool playtime is just around the corner.
💬 “Arizona summers are hot. Dogs deserve cool. Indoor zoomies land Spring 2026. #AllDogsTempe”
👉 Final Woof
Until All Dogs opens its doors, keep the water flowing, paws off the pavement, and eyes peeled for those signs of overheating. A cool pup is a happy pup — and a safe one. With a little awareness and a lot of love, you can make sure your dog enjoys summer without the risks.
