The Most Dangerous State for Dogs in the Heat Revealed
If you're a dog owner, protecting your pet during extreme heat isn't optional-it's essential. Dogs don't have the same ways humans do to cool down, like air conditioning, cold drinks, or simply escaping the sun. Instead, they rely completely on their owners to help them stay safe when temperatures rise.
However, that risk isn't the same everywhere. In some parts of the United States, hot climates creates far more dangerous conditions for dogs, especially during long summer heat waves. High temperatures, humidity, and limited relief from the sun can quickly push pets into unsafe territory, which can result in them having a heat stoke or even sadly passing away from the extreme temperatures. Veterinarians say this kind of risk can escalate quickly, making prevention critical-and the findings may surprise many pet owners.
Read on to see what a study analyzing heat-related dangers for pets has identified the number one most dangerous state in the country for dogs due to its hot temperatures. Plus, find out what vets say pet parents can do to help keep their dogs cool this summer. Ultimately, protecting your furry companion from the heat comes down to awareness and planning. By understanding how heat affects pets and taking proactive steps, owners can help their four-legged friends stay safe, comfortable and healthy all summer long.
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The Number One Hottest State for Dogs
A recent study by Veterinarians.org ranked Texas as the number one state where heat is most dangerous for dogs. In cities like Austin, temperatures can hit 100 degrees or higher about 15 days a year, and 90 degree days can start as early as late May. That means months of steady, intense heat for both people and their pets.
"We collected a compilation of news and police reports that had occurred across the nation over a five-year period," revealed pet health expert, Lily Velez. "We analyzed heat-related pet deaths that were specifically the result of neglect or abandonment or abuse. Unfortunately, what we found is that Texas topped this ranking with 40 pet deaths over the span of this period (five years), which was actually six times the national average."
She added, "Unfortunately, in extreme heat conditions, especially when we're talking about days when it's over 90°, that air temperature can rise rapidly. If the dog doesn't have ample shade or if it doesn't have ample water, that's a dangerous condition for the animal to be in."
The Top Hottest States for Dogs
Texas isn't the only dangerous state for dogs when it comes to heat. Dr. Bethany Hsia, veterinarian and co-founder of CodaPet, is no stranger to pets and hot weather. Based out of Fresno, CA for a decade, she learned firsthand how dangerous prolonged heat can be for animals, both as a pet owner and veterinary professional.
What are the worst states for dogs in summer? She says aside from Texas, the four other hottest state for dogs to live in include states in the southern United States and western United States. "Beyond Texas, four states with high heat risks include Arizona, Nevada, Florida and parts of California," Hsia explains. "In Arizona and Nevada, the primary danger is extreme ambient air temperature and hot pavement that can burn paw pads. In Florida, high humidity significantly hinders a dog's ability to cool itself through evaporation."
That combination of heat and humidity is what makes certain regions especially dangerous. The temperature itself is a main concern in dry climates, while humid areas can lead to dogs struggling to release heat effectively, raising their internal temperature at a rapid rate. Hsia adds that California presents its own challenges depending on the region. The Central Valley, Inland Empire and desert areas experience prolonged heat wave periods that place dogs at severe risk for heat-related illness.
Even in states that aren't typically thought of as extreme, short bursts of high heat can still pose a threat. A sudden spike in temperature, especially early in the season before dogs have acclimated, can increase the chances of overheating.
How Dogs Regulate Body Temperature
Unlike humans, dogs don't sweat across most of their bodies. They only have sweat glands on the bottoms of their feet, which means they rely heavily on panting to cool down. "Animals cool themselves through evaporative means when they pant," explains Mathieu Glassman, veterinary surgeon and founder and CEO at Dr. Cuddles. "In more humid areas, animals don't get as much evaporation of their saliva cooling their mouths and tongue, so they can overheat faster."
When the air is already hot or saturated with moisture, panting becomes less effective. "While a human's normal body temperature is approximately 98.6 degrees, a dog's average temperature is higher, typically 101.5 degrees," Hsia adds. "In high humidity climates, a dog's internal temperature can rapidly climb to 105 degrees, especially in short-nosed breeds."
Short-nosed or brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs are vulnerable because their airway structure makes it harder for them to pant efficiently. This can quickly lead to heatstroke, which is a medical emergency that can cause organ failure, internal bleeding and even death.
Thyagaria Penthahalli, a veterinarian with TelaVets.com, explains how quickly things can escalate. "Extreme heat can become dangerous in a short amount of time, especially for puppies, senior dogs, overweight pets and thick-coated breeds," he says.
Warning Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Heatstroke is one of the most serious risks dogs face in hot weather, but Hsia says early warning signs are often clear if you know what to look for, which can help dog owners act quickly. "Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, bright red gums, lethargy and physical collapse," she explains. Some dogs might also drool excessively, vomit or appear disoriented.
As the condition worsens, symptoms can quickly become severe, including difficulty breathing, seizures or loss of consciousness. "If a dog overheats, owners should immediately move their dog to a cooler area, offer water and apply cool water to paws before seeking emergency veterinary care," Hsia says. It's important to avoid using ice water or very cold baths, which can cause shock or constrict blood vessels and make it harder for the body to cool down properly.
How to Keep Dogs Cool When It's Hot
The good news is that many cases of heat-related illness are preventable by taking a few simple precautions. So, what are some of the best ways to help dogs stay cool and safe during heatwaves? Hsia says to avoid exercise during peak heat hours, typically midday through late afternoon. "Owners should prioritize early morning or late evening walks and utilize cooling mats or vests to assist in managing their dog's temperature," she suggests.
She reveals that surfaces like asphalt and concrete can also become dangerously hot when walking your dog, so it's a good idea to test pavement with your hand before heading out. If it's too hot for you to touch comfortably, it's definitely too hot for your dog's paws. You may even want to invest in dog shoes to protect their paws.
She also notes that dogs should always have access to fresh water and shade when outdoors. A collapsible water bowl can help your dog stay hydrated on the go, while cooling mats, vests or even a damp towel can also help cool your dog down, especially during heat waves or in regions with prolonged high temperatures.
Glassman points out one more dangerous situation is when people don't think it's super hot outside, so they leave their car windows up when their pet is inside. "In this situation, a pet owner may feel like the weather is great, and are more likely to not leave a window down in the car, or feel like five minutes in a closed car isn't a long time," he says.
Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can rise rapidly within minutes. When outside air is cool but the sun is intense, a car acts like a greenhouse. "That's a recipe for disaster, as it allows owners to stretch a lapse in judgement into a life-threatening situation," Glassman adds.
Sources:
Dr. Bethany Hsia, veterinarian and co-founder of CodaPet
Mathieu Glassman, veterinary surgeon and founder and CEO at Dr. Cuddles
Thyagaria Penthahalli, veterinarian with TelaVets.com
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This story was originally published May 10, 2026 at 3:10 AM.