It's hot out there. Like, really hot.

If you're in Canada right now, you already know - and so does your dog. While we can reach for a cold drink and crank the AC, our dogs are relying on us to keep them cool, safe, and comfortable. Here's everything you need to know when the temperature climbs.

Know the Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Heat stroke is a life threatening emergency and it can happen faster than most people expect - especially in flat-faced breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and French bulldogs who struggle to pant efficiently. Know what to look for:

Early warning signs:

• Excessive panting and drooling
• Bright red gums and tongue
• Restlessness or agitation
• Weakness or wobbly legs

Emergency signs — act immediately:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Glazed eyes
• Collapsing or seizures
• Loss of consciousness

If your dog shows emergency signs, move them to a cool area immediately, apply lukewarm (not cold) water to their paws, neck, and armpits, and get to a vet as fast as possible. Do not use ice water — it can cause blood vessels to constrict and make things worse.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Heat

Check the pavement before you walk
Press the back of your hand to the pavement for 5 seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Stick to early morning walks (before 8 am) or evening walks (after 8 pm) when the ground has cooled.

Never leave your dog in a parked car
Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can reach dangerous levels within minutes. This is non-negotiable - not even with the windows cracked.

Keep fresh water available at all times
Dogs need significantly more water in hot weather. Bring a collapsible bowl on walks, add ice cubes to their water bowl at home, and check it regularly - hot weather means faster evaporation.

Create a cool space indoors
Set up a fan near their bed, lay a cooling mat on the floor, or place a damp towel for them to lie on. Tile floors are your dog's best friend in a heat wave - let them seek out cool surfaces.

Wet their paws and belly
Dogs release heat through their paws. A quick rinse with cool water before and after walks can make a meaningful difference in their comfort. A damp bandana around their neck helps too - just make sure it's cool, not cold.

Watch flat-faced breeds and senior dogs closely
Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, Frenchies, bulldogs) and older dogs are at much higher risk of overheating. On extreme heat days, outdoor activity should be minimal and supervised.

Too Hot to Walk? Here's What to Do Instead

When it's genuinely too hot to be outside, your dog still needs mental stimulation — and honestly, a tired brain is as effective as a tired body.

We've put together a full guide to indoor enrichment activities that keep your dog busy and mentally sharp on days when the outdoors just isn't an option. From puzzle toys and scent games to trick training and frozen lick mats — your dog won't even miss the walk.

→ Keep Your Dog Busy Indoors: 4 Fun, Brain-Boosting Activities

Have a hot weather tip we missed? Leave it in the comments — we'd love to hear what's working for your dog this summer.