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Why does my dog pant so much and when is it dangerous?

11 juli 2026SmartPaw3 min lezen

Twee jonge honden hijgen met de tong uit in het zonnige gras

Panting is perfectly normal for dogs – it’s how they cool down. But during the warm summer of 2026, with another potential heatwave in the second half of July, it’s important to distinguish between normal panting and a dangerous alarm signal. The SmartPaw editorial team explains when you need to be alert.

By the SmartPaw editorial team · Published July 11, 2026 · Last updated July 11, 2026 · Facts checked with veterinary and official sources (AniCura, Dierenbescherming).

📌 In short

Dogs do not sweat like us; they cool down by panting through their tongues.
Normal panting after exercise or in warm weather is harmless and stops after cooling down.
The normal body temperature is 38–39 °C; above 40 °C it becomes unsafe, above 41 °C there is heat stress.
Brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldog, Pug, Shih Tzu) are at extra risk.
Heavy, continuous panting with lethargy or vomiting? Call your vet immediately.

Why do dogs pant?

Because panting is their primary way of releasing heat. Dogs hardly sweat and have an insulating coat. By breathing rapidly, moisture evaporates through the tongue and mucous membranes, thus cooling your dog down. Dogs also pant when excited, stressed, or right after exercise – this is usually harmless and subsides on its own.

When is panting normal and when is it alarming?

Normal panting stops shortly after your dog settles down or cools off. Alarming panting is sudden, extreme, or continuous, especially in combination with other symptoms. The table below helps you see the difference.

Normal panting	Alarming panting
After walking, playing, or in warm weather	Suddenly, at rest, without clear reason
Stops after cooling down or resting	Continues, becomes heavier
Dog remains alert and cheerful	Lethargy, staggering, vomiting, bright red tongue

When does panting become life-threatening (heat stress)?

As soon as the body temperature rises too much. A healthy dog has a temperature of 38 to 39 °C. Above 40 °C it becomes unsafe, above 41 °C we speak of heat stress, and above 42 °C organs can be damaged – sometimes within minutes. Heat stress is an emergency.

⚠️ Recognize heat stress – act immediately

Heavy panting, excessive drooling, a bright red tongue, lethargy, staggering, or vomiting are alarm signals. Move your dog to the shade, offer water, and gradually cool him down with lukewarm (not ice-cold) water. Always call your vet, even if he seems to be getting better after cooling down. Never leave your dog in a parked car.

Which dogs are at extra risk?

Brachycephalic breeds such as the French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, and Shih Tzu have narrowed airways and find it much harder to release heat. Older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs, and animals with heart or respiratory problems are also more vulnerable. Be extra careful with them on hot days.

💡 Tip: On hot days, walk early in the morning or late in the evening, and check the asphalt with the back of your hand: too hot for your hand is too hot for their paws.

How do you help your dog stay cool and well-hydrated?

Always ensure fresh, cool water is within reach. A drinking fountain keeps the water flowing and fresh, encouraging many dogs to drink more – especially important in warm weather. Also provide shade, a cooling mat, and possibly ice cubes in the water. Read our full guide dog and warm weather: 12 tips against overheating and find out if your dog drinks enough water.