Pet Heatstroke Risk Calculator
Is it too hot to walk your dog right now? Get a clear risk score.
Heatstroke kills hundreds of dogs every summer — and most cases happen on walks below 25°C, not in scorching weather. The risk depends on more than just temperature: humidity, breed type (flat-faced breeds are far more at risk), exercise intensity and access to water all matter. This calculator combines all five into a single clear risk score: Safe, Caution, High, or Do not walk.
How this calculator works
The calculator first computes a heat index — the "feels like" temperature combining temperature and humidity. It then adds a breed-risk modifier (flat-faced breeds add +5°C of effective heat, thick-coated breeds +3°C, puppies and seniors +2°C) and applies an exercise multiplier. The final value maps to four risk bands: Safe (under 24°C effective), Caution (24–28°C), High (28–32°C), Do not walk (32°C+).
The pavement check uses the 7-second rule — if you can't hold the back of your hand to the asphalt for 7 full seconds, it's too hot for paws.
Frequently asked questions
My dog seems fine — why does the risk say High?
Heatstroke can develop suddenly. By the time a dog shows symptoms (heavy panting, drooling, weakness), they're already in trouble. Better to err on the safe side: walk early morning or after dusk in summer.
Are flat-faced breeds really that much more at risk?
Yes. Brachycephalic breeds have airways up to 50% smaller than other dogs. Even moderate temperatures can push them into respiratory distress. They're overrepresented in vet heatstroke admissions by 5×.
What are the warning signs of heatstroke?
Excessive panting, bright red gums, drooling, vomiting, weakness or collapse. This is an emergency — cool with cool (not ice) water on belly/groin and drive to a vet immediately.
Is it safe to leave my dog in a parked car if I crack the window?
No. The interior of a parked car can reach 40°C+ within 10 minutes even on a 22°C day. Cracking a window changes very little. Never leave dogs in parked cars in summer.
Cooling & travel essentials
