What Temperature Is Too Hot for a Dog in a House? (Solved & Explained!)

If you’re a dog owner, you know how important it is to keep your pet comfortable and safe. One of the most critical factors to consider is the temperature of your home. Dogs can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, and it’s essential to know what temperature is too hot for them in your house or outside in a dog house.

According to the American Kennel Club, dogs have a normal body temperature that varies according to their size. Most dogs begin to show signs of overheating when the air temperature is above 75°F. If the temperature rises to 90°F or higher, it can cause heatstroke, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

It’s crucial to keep your home at a stable indoor temperature between 72-77°F in the summer months and 68-72°F in the winter months. Providing plenty of fresh water and access to a cool tile or cement floor can also help keep your dog comfortable. Keep reading to learn more about what temperature is too hot for a dog in a house.

Keep reading to learn more about what temperature is too hot for a dog in a house.

What Temperature Is Too Hot for a Dog Inside?

If you’re a dog owner, you know that keeping your pet comfortable is a top priority. One important factor to consider is the temperature inside your home, especially during the hot summer months. So, what temperature is too hot for a dog in a house?

According to Pet Educate, a stable indoor temperature between 72-77 degrees Fahrenheit (22-25 degrees Celsius) in the summer months will be comfortable for most dog breeds. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that dogs can overheat quickly, and some breeds are more sensitive to heat than others.

If the temperature inside your home rises above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius), your dog could be at risk of heatstroke. Signs of heatstroke in dogs include panting, excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, seek veterinary care immediately.

Understanding a Dog’s Comfort Zone

Factors that Affect a Dog’s Comfort

Dogs have a different comfort zone than humans. They regulate their body temperature by panting, sweating through their paws, and seeking cooler areas. According to the American Kennel Club, a dog’s normal body temperature is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Small dogs may have slightly lower temperatures than big dogs. Several factors can affect a dog’s comfort.

These include breed, age, weight, coat thickness, and overall health. For example, brachycephalic breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, have a harder time regulating their body temperature and may require cooler temperatures. Older dogs and overweight dogs may also have difficulty regulating their temperature.

Signs of Discomfort in Dogs

It is essential to recognize when your dog is uncomfortable due to the temperature in your home. Signs of discomfort include excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, and seeking cooler areas. Your dog may also become restless, whine, or refuse to eat or drink. If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to adjust the temperature in your home to ensure your dog’s comfort. The Spruce Pets recommends keeping the temperature below 100 degrees Fahrenheit and ensuring proper ventilation to prevent humidity buildup.

Ideal Temperature Range for Dogs

Keeping your pet comfortable at home is important, and knowing the ideal temperature range for dogs can help you achieve that. According to the American Kennel Club, the ideal temperature range for dogs is between 68°F and 78°F. However, this range can vary depending on your dog’s size, breed, and coat type.

It’s important to note that temperatures above 80°F can be dangerous for dogs, especially those with thick coats or respiratory issues. On the other hand, temperatures below 60°F can also be uncomfortable for dogs, especially smaller breeds or those with short hair.

If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, it’s important to take extra precautions to keep your dog comfortable. During the hot summer months, make sure your home is well-ventilated and provides plenty of cool water for your dog to drink. You may also consider leaving a fan or air conditioning unit on to help regulate the temperature.

In colder months, make sure your home is well-insulated, and consider providing your dog with a warm bed or blanket to snuggle up in. You may also want to limit their time outside and provide them with a coat or sweater to wear.

Remember, every dog is different, so it’s important to pay attention to your pet’s behavior and adjust the temperature as needed. If you’re unsure if your dog is comfortable, look for signs of overheating or shivering, and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Source: American Kennel Club

Risks of High Temperature in Dogs

When the temperature in your house is too hot, your dog is at risk of experiencing several health problems. Here are some of the risks that your dog may face:

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious condition that occurs when your dog’s body temperature rises above 105°F. This can happen when your dog is exposed to high temperatures for an extended period, such as when left in a hot house. Symptoms of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and bright red gums and tongue. If left untreated, heatstroke can lead to stumbling, collapse, unconsciousness, and even seizures. Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows any signs of heatstroke.

Dehydration

When your dog is exposed to high temperatures, it may become dehydrated. Dehydration occurs when your dog loses more fluids than they take in and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth and nose, sunken eyes, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water at all times, especially when the temperature in your house is too hot.

Organ Failure

When your dog’s body temperature rises above 106°F, it can lead to organ failure. This can cause serious health problems, such as kidney failure, liver failure, and even death. It is important to monitor your dog’s body temperature and take steps to keep them cool when the temperature in your house is too hot. This can include providing plenty of water, keeping them in a cool room, and using fans or air conditioning to lower the temperature.

It is important to take steps to keep your dog cool and comfortable when the temperature in your house is too hot. By monitoring your dog’s body temperature and taking steps to prevent heatstroke, dehydration, and organ failure, you can help keep your pet happy and healthy.

Sources: American Kennel Club, The Spruce Pets

Preventing High Temperature in Dogs

Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool

During the hot summer months, it’s important to keep your home cool to prevent your dog from overheating. Here are some tips:

• Set your thermostat to a cool but comfortable temperature, ideally between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Use fans or air conditioning to circulate cool air throughout your home.
• Close the curtains and blinds during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun’s rays.
• Provide your dog with a cool and shaded area to rest in, such as a basement or a room with tile or concrete floors.
• Offer your dog plenty of fresh, cool water to stay hydrated.

Signs of Overheating

It’s important to recognize the signs of overheating in dogs so you can take action to cool them down. Here are some signs to look out for:

Signs of Overheating in Dogs	What to Do
Panting excessively	Offer cool water and a cool place to rest
Red or pale gums	Get your dog to a cool place and offer water
Weakness or collapse	Seek veterinary attention immediately
Vomiting or diarrhea	Seek veterinary attention immediately

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to overheating in dogs. By keeping your home cool and recognizing the signs of overheating, you can help keep your pet safe and comfortable during the hot summer months.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog comfortable in your home is important for their health and well-being. It is recommended to maintain a stable indoor temperature between 72-77 degrees Fahrenheit (22-25 degrees Celsius) in the summer months and between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22 degrees Celsius) in the winter months.

When it comes to determining if it is too hot for your dog in your house, it is important to pay attention to their behavior and body language. Signs of overheating can include excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy. If your dog is showing these signs, it is important to take action immediately to cool them down and prevent heatstroke.

Remember that each dog is different and may have their unique temperature preferences. If you are unsure if your home is too hot for your dog, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.

By following these guidelines and keeping a close eye on your pet, you can ensure that they are comfortable and happy in your home.

Sources: American Kennel Club, Pet Educate

FAQ

Is 65 degrees too cold for a dog?

A range of 65 to 75 degrees is generally going to be just fine for your dog. Don’t worry that 65 will be too cold. Most dogs are going to be fine until the temperature drops below 45, at which point they start to get a little chilly and uncomfortable.

Go ahead and set the thermostat to 65 with confidence – your dog will be fine.

What temperature is unsafe for dogs?

When it comes to cold, the 30 to 40-degree Fahrenheit range is where it starts to become potentially dangerous for your dog. Depending on the thickness of their coat and their size, your dog may start becoming anxious, they might whine, or hold up a paw – all signs that you should bring them inside.

As far as heat, you don’t want your dog’s body heat to exceed 104 degrees, and even a temperature of 80 degrees outside can be dangerous if the humidity is at about 90%. In such cases, you should put your dog in the shade and cool them with a wet towel.

What temperature do dogs like to sleep in?

Dogs prefer the upper range of 65 to 75 degrees when it comes to sleeping. That said, they’ll tolerate a little more or a little less, but if it gets warmer then don’t be surprised if your dog plops down in front of the fan or tries to burrow into the blankets with you.

They like being comfortable just as much as we do and you can’t blame them for that!

Do dogs need a blanket at night?

If you’ve got a small dog and it’s cold, then you should bundle them up. Smaller dogs have a harder time with cold and your efforts will be appreciated. Larger breeds might not need the same treatment, but they will also appreciate it.

If it’s cold, go ahead and wrap up your dog in a blanket – they’ll love you even more for it!

What to do with dogs when it’s hot?

When it’s hot outside, there are a few things you can do to help your dog with the heat. A wet towel is always welcome and it’s a quick way to cool a hot dog. Find a little shade as well, if you are in a park, and if you are in the backyard then why not turn on the sprinklers?

Dogs love playing with the water, biting at it merrily, and jumping about, and it makes for an entertaining day while keeping your dog cool at the same time.

What dogs overheat the easiest?

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs tend to overheat quite easily, as they have a harder time breathing than most dogs due to their specific facial features. Dogs that are bred for winter may also overheat a bit more easily in the summer, as their summer coats are still quite thick for some regions.

In general, however, smaller breeds have a harder time and should be carefully watched when it’s warm out.

How do you know when a dog is overheated?

When your dog is breathing or panting frantically, then this is a huge red flag that your dog is overheating. This will often manifest with heavy salivation and a lot of redness to the membranes.

If you see this, pull your dog into the shade and cool them down with a wet towel immediately, followed by a quick visit to the vet. A potential heat stroke is nothing to trifle with, so it’s well worth the visit to ensure that your dog is okay.  

What is the fastest way to cool down a dog?

Cold snacks from an ice chest, chilled water, and a wet towel are all good ways to help cool down a dog that is starting to heat up.

You should also be sure that your summer spot is in the shade, so that you may call your dog over from time to time to give them a cool-down session to ensure that they do not overheat.

How do you know if your dog is too hot or cold?

Signs of overheating may include excess saliva and panting, as well as rapid breathing, lethargy, and even vomiting. Signs of an excess cold include your dog getting anxious, whining, and even lifting a single paw off of the ground.

When in doubt, it’s best to simply bring your dog inside. Any changes in behavior may be a red flag and it’s always best to err on the safe side.