Dogs are incredibly adaptable animals, but they’re not as efficient at cooling themselves as humans. Without the ability to sweat over most of their body, dogs rely on a unique thermoregulatory system to maintain a healthy internal temperature. In this post, we explore how dogs cool down naturally, why it matters, and how products like cooling coats can support their biological processes—especially during summer.
What Is Canine Thermoregulation?
Thermoregulation is the body's ability to maintain a stable internal temperature despite external conditions. In dogs, the normal resting body temperature ranges between 38.3°C and 39.2°C. When temperatures rise or a dog becomes active, their body initiates mechanisms to release excess heat.
But unlike humans, dogs have limited sweat glands—mostly located in their paw pads and nose. This makes other cooling strategies essential for them to stay safe and comfortable.
How Do Dogs Cool Themselves?
Dogs primarily rely on panting to cool down. Here’s how their thermoregulation works:
1. Panting
Panting increases airflow across moist surfaces in the mouth, tongue, and upper respiratory tract, facilitating evaporative cooling. As moisture evaporates, it draws heat away from the body.
📌 Research published in The Journal of Thermal Biology confirms that panting plays a key role in evaporative heat loss in dogs, especially during moderate to high levels of exertion (King et al., 2004).
2. Vasodilation
Blood vessels near the skin surface widen to help dissipate heat. This is especially noticeable in the ears and face. More warm blood is moved toward the surface, where it can release heat more effectively.
3. Conduction
Lying on cool surfaces allows the body to release heat through direct contact. This is why dogs often lie on tiles or shade during hot weather.
4. Limited Sweating
Though minimal, dogs can sweat through their paw pads. You'll often notice damp paw prints on warm surfaces when a dog is overheated.
Why Dogs Struggle in the Heat
Because panting and paw-pad sweating are less efficient than full-body sweating, dogs can overheat quickly—especially in humid environments or enclosed spaces like cars.
Some breeds are especially vulnerable:
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus
- Thick-coated dogs like Huskies or Chows
- Older dogs, puppies, and dogs with health conditions
A study published in Scientific Reports (O'Neill et al., 2020) found that brachycephalic breeds are significantly more prone to heat-related illness, due to restricted airways that limit effective panting.
Supporting Your Dog’s Cooling System
While natural thermoregulation does work, it's not always enough—particularly during summer heatwaves, travel, or exercise. That’s where cooling aids come in.
💡 Product Tip: How Cooling Coats Help Dogs Stay Cooler
The Quick Chill Cooling Coat supports your dog’s natural cooling process by:
- Enhancing evaporative cooling without soaking your dog’s fur
- Drawing heat away from the body through water-activated fabric
- Reducing the need for excessive panting
- Aiding thermoregulation during travel, walks, or hot days at home
📖 A 2020 study in Animals found that dogs wearing evaporative cooling coats had lower post-exercise body temperatures and recovered faster after exertion in warm weather (Zanghi et al., 2020).
Please note: If your dog has suspected heatstroke, please call the vet. Do not use a cooling coat. Read more on heatstroke here.
Everyday Tips to Support Thermoregulation
- Ensure constant access to fresh, cool water
- Walk early or late—never during peak heat
- Provide shade and ventilation at home and during travel
- Allow your dog to lie on cool surfaces
- Use a cooling coat during rest or light activity. Reactivate the coat as many times as needed.
Understanding how dogs cool down helps you make informed choices to keep them safe. While panting and paw pad sweating are their primary defences, dogs often need additional support—especially in summer.
References
- King, D., and Taylor, R. “Evaporative heat loss in exercising dogs.” Journal of Thermal Biology, 2004.
- O'Neill, D.G., Hall, E.J., et al. “Dogs don’t die just in hot cars—exposure to hot weather is just as deadly.” Scientific Reports, 2020. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-66015-8
- Zanghi, B.M. et al. “Effect of a Cooling Vest on Core Temperature in Dogs Exercising in the Heat.” Animals, MDPI, 2020. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/10/4/722
- RSPCA. “Keeping your dog cool in hot weather.” https://www.rspca.org.uk