{"id":72648,"date":"2025-06-12T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-12T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/?p=72648&#038;preview=true&#038;preview_id=72648"},"modified":"2025-06-13T01:50:44","modified_gmt":"2025-06-13T05:50:44","slug":"leaving-a-dog-inside-a-hot-car-dont-do-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/leaving-a-dog-inside-a-hot-car-dont-do-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Leaving A Dog Inside A Hot Car? Don&#8217;t Do It!"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\">\n<div class=\"section\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Leaving a dog inside a hot car<\/strong> is never a good idea, even if it\u2019s just for a few minutes, especially in summer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minutes under the heat of a scorching sun can be death traps for anyone, especially inside a metal contraption.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>But what if you crack a window open? Is there a safe temperature to leave dogs in the car? How long can dogs survive in a hot car?<\/p>\n<p>Below, let's discuss what happens to dogs in hot cars, fast facts, and safety tips for keeping our dogs cool and safe during hot weather.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>RELATED:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/how-hot-is-too-hot-for-a-dog\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How Hot Is Too Hot for A Dog?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"youtube-embed\" data-video_id=\"mrYudJUfuSk\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How Hot Is Too Hot for A Dog?\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/mrYudJUfuSk?feature=oembed&#038;enablejsapi=1\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2><strong>Temperatures Inside A Hot Car<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>According to a study by the Department of Geosciences of San Francisco State University, a car's temperature can rise to almost 45 degrees Fahrenheit in just an hour!<\/p>\n<p>Look at the heat chart below, which illustrates how hot it can get inside a vehicle.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-72956 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature.jpeg\" alt=\"Car Temperature Heat Chart\" width=\"1200\" height=\"795\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature-600x398.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature-300x199.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature-1024x678.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature-768x509.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature-634x420.jpeg 634w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature-640x424.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Car-Temperature-681x451.jpeg 681w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you can see, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.insider.com\/how-hot-does-a-car-get-in-the-sun\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"82590\">temperature inside the car<\/a> gets way hotter than outside, causing it to increase rapidly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The increase is also not gradual, so dogs cannot keep up with the intense heat.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>If it can get hot enough to <a href=\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/egg-experiment-demonstrates-the-danger-of-leaving-a-dog-in-a-hot-car\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">fry an egg<\/a>\u00a0inside a parked vehicle, how can we even think our dogs can survive this much heat?<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The excuse of leaving your dog in the car for a minute to do an errand can most likely be their last minute alive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Call it ignorance or otherwise, but leaving your dogs inside a <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/texas-student-creates-device-save-pets-trapped-hot-vehicles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">hot car<\/a> is considered a form of animal cruelty.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.peta.org\/features\/dogs-and-other-companion-animals-suffer-heat-related-deaths\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)<\/a> reports hundreds of cases of companion animals left alone inside a car each year.<\/p>\n<p>In 2024, there were 111 deaths and 388 rescues. 2023 was even worse, with 163 deaths and 855 rescues.<\/p>\n<p>As of June 11, 2025, there have already been 12 deaths and 42 rescues.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\">\n<div class=\"section\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And yes, <strong>even if you crack a window open or leave your dog with water, it\u2019s insufficient to keep their bodies regulated from the heat.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-72960 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_131596064.jpg\" alt=\"dog inside a hot car in summer\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_131596064.jpg 500w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_131596064-300x217.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>Effects of Leaving Dogs Inside a Hot Car<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>Too much heat can undoubtedly harm our dogs' health.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Canine Hyperthermia<\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/heatstroke-in-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Heatstroke<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0could be the number one effect of leaving a dog inside a car, especially during summer.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember: a dog has a limited internal cooling system!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike humans, who sweat the heat out, dogs can only pant through their mouths. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/excessive-panting-in-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"82591\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Excessive panting<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0is also highly taxing for them.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Keep an eye out, especially for <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/brachycephalic-breeds-whats-the-difference\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">brachycephalic breeds<\/a> like <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/pug-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pugs<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/breed-out-breathing-disorders-pugs-bulldogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bulldogs<\/a>. These flat-faced dogs are usually more heat-intolerant and suffer negative effects sooner than other breeds.<\/p>\n<p>You should also be cautious of dogs that are too young, old, overweight, or have a history of sickness. They should be kept in a comfortable environment as often as possible.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>RELATED:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/best-care-for-flat-faced-dog-breeds-care-tips-for-brachycephalic-pups\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Best Care for Flat-Faced Dog Breeds: Care Tips for Brachycephalic Pups<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Signs_of_Heatstroke_in_Dogs\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-88221\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke-300x214.jpg\" alt=\"French Bulldog had heatstroke\" width=\"300\" height=\"214\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke-600x429.jpg 600w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke-588x420.jpg 588w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke-640x457.jpg 640w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke-681x486.jpg 681w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/French-Bulldog-has-heatstroke.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you happen to see a dog left inside a car on a sunny day, look out for these prominent signs that signify heat stroke.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Extreme panting or difficulty breathing<\/li>\n<li>Increased heart and respiratory rate<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/my-dogs-excessive-drooling\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Excessive drooling<\/a> with thickened saliva<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/what-does-it-mean-when-a-dogs-nose-is-dry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dry nose<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/red-gums-in-dogs-what-does-it-mean\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bright pink\/red gum<\/a> or tongue<\/li>\n<li>Mild weakness\/ stumbling around<\/li>\n<li>Restlessness<\/li>\n<li>Sunken dry eyes<\/li>\n<li>Darkened tongue<\/li>\n<li>Loss of skin elasticity<\/li>\n<li>Stupor\/ lethargy<\/li>\n<li>Collapse<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/seizures-in-dogs-top-5-natural-remedies-that-actually-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Seizures<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/how-to-stop-diarrhea-in-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Diarrhea<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/why-is-my-puppy-vomiting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vomiting<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/how-do-i-know-if-my-dog-has-a-fever\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">High body temperature (over 104\u00b0F)<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Rapid heartbeat<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Noticing one or two of these signs should be enough to alert you and apply immediate <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/first-aid-for-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">first aid<\/a> to your pet to prevent any serious consequences.<\/p>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lethargic symptoms, such as uninterest in playing or walking among dogs, may show two to three days after the incident. Extreme fatigue and increased stress levels are also associated with exposure to high temperatures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If worse comes to worst, dogs can have brain damage and eventually die from staying long inside hot cars.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-72961 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_1426294436.jpg\" alt=\"dog trapped inside a hot car\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_1426294436.jpg 500w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_1426294436-300x217.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>How Can You Help a Trapped Dog Inside a Hot Car<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you don\u2019t have dogs, you can advocate if you see a dog inside a hot car. Knowing what to do and what signs to look for may be their only saving grace.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can contact the local police or animal control and tell them it's an emergency.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note the vehicle\u2019s distinguishing features. Jot down the car\u2019s color, make, model, and license plate number. You can also request nearby stores to page the vehicle's owner.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Furthermore, drastic measures like breaking car windows are allowable if you follow the proper protocol. This is called the <a href=\"https:\/\/aldf.org\/project\/dogs-in-hot-cars\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8220;Good Samaritan Law.&#8221;<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These acts are done to save the animals inside the car. If you are unsure if your state allows you to do this, call law enforcers or authorized humane officers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Laws Against Leaving Dogs in Cars<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/New-Law-in-New-York-Could-Protect-Dogs-Trapped-in-Hot-Vehicles.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-8336 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/New-Law-in-New-York-Could-Protect-Dogs-Trapped-in-Hot-Vehicles-300x188.jpg\" alt=\"New Law in New York Could Protect Dogs Trapped in Hot Vehicles\" width=\"300\" height=\"188\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/New-Law-in-New-York-Could-Protect-Dogs-Trapped-in-Hot-Vehicles-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/New-Law-in-New-York-Could-Protect-Dogs-Trapped-in-Hot-Vehicles-600x375.jpg 600w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/New-Law-in-New-York-Could-Protect-Dogs-Trapped-in-Hot-Vehicles-160x100.jpg 160w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/New-Law-in-New-York-Could-Protect-Dogs-Trapped-in-Hot-Vehicles.jpg 640w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>About 31 states (plus the District of Columbia) have varying degrees of laws regarding the leaving of animals in cars.<\/p>\n<p>Some of them <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">categorize leaving dogs in enclosed hot cars as a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/ways-people-abuse-animals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"82594\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">form of animal abuse,<\/span><\/a> which has penalties and<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0corresponding sanctions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Some states only ban dogs and cats from being left in the car, not necessarily covering other animal companions.<\/p>\n<p>Other states, however, have laws that protect officers or public officials from breaking into a car to rescue a trapped animal.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/azusapd.org\/general\/steps-to-take-if-breaking-into-a-car-to-save-a-pet#:~:text=Under%20California%20Penal%20Code%20Section,food%20or%20water%2C%20or%20other\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">California<\/a>, for example, provides immunity to anyone who breaks into a car to save an animal in direct danger from the heat or lack of ventilation.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>You can check the existing laws and regulations in your location regarding the leaving of animals in parked vehicles at this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.animallaw.info\/topic\/table-state-laws-protect-animals-left-parked-vehicles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">link<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2><b>Remedies for a Rescued Dog From Inside a Hot Car<\/b><\/h2>\n<p>There are steps you can take to cool down an overheated dog immediately.<\/p>\n<p>Once a dog from a hot car is rescued, <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/emergency-dog-health-problems\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">rushing it to the veterinary clinic<\/a> is the first and most sensible course of action, especially if it collapses, has seizures, or vomits.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If possible, transport the dog in an air-conditioned vehicle to help it regulate its temperature.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>But for other symptoms, the following steps might be enough to let them recover:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Lay the dog down in a cool or shaded spot. <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An air-conditioned building, such as a shopping complex, will suffice.<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Pour cool water (cool, not ice cold!) onto the dog to lower the temperature.<\/li>\n<li>Pay extra attention to wetting their ears and paws<\/li>\n<li>If available, allow them to dry off in front of a fan<\/li>\n<li>Continuously monitor their temperature until it lowers to a normal 101\u00b0F to 102.5\u00b0F (38\u00b0C to 39\u00b0C)<\/li>\n<li>Let them sip cool water as soon as they can<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Once they have regained some energy, it's still best to take them to the vet for further evaluation.<\/p>\n<p>You would want to make sure that there are no complications that happened during their overheating episode.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>RELATED:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/how-to-cool-down-a-dog\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Cool Down a Dog: 12 Most Efficient Ways and 5 Dangerous Ones<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<div class=\"youtube-embed\" data-video_id=\"nbWkKhL_3eE\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How To Cool A Dog Down\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/nbWkKhL_3eE?feature=oembed&#038;enablejsapi=1\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Dogs That Tolerate Heat Better Than Others<\/b><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/senior-dog-health-problems\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Senior dogs<\/a> with preexisting conditions, <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/best-care-for-flat-faced-dog-breeds-care-tips-for-brachycephalic-pups\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">brachycephalic dogs<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/double-coated-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">double-coated dogs<\/a> are more sensitive to heat, but some canines can tolerate warmer weather.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most have a single, short coat, a lanky build, and a long snout or nose.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>These dogs include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/dalmatian-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dalmatian<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/afghan-hound-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Afghan Hound<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/greyhound-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Greyhound<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/doberman-pinscher-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Doberman Pinscher<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/yorkshire-terrier-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yorkshire Terrier<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/australian-cattle-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Australian Cattle<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/ibizan-hound-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ibizan Hound<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/terrier-dog-breeds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rat Terriers<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/chihuahua-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chihuahua<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/great-dane-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Great Dane<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/basenji\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Basenji<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/bichon-frise-dog-breed-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bichon Frise<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Read more about each breed in our guide linked below!<\/p>\n<p>However, <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">their physical features and ability to tolerate heat better only give them about five extra minutes before their bodies succumb to the rapid increase in environmental temperature.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Similar to other dogs, they can still experience <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/how-to-tell-if-your-dog-is-dehydrated\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dehydration<\/a>, heatstroke, and untimely death when left inside a hot car, especially in summer.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p><em><strong>RELATED:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/dogs-good-for-hot-weather\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">11 Awesome Dogs That Thrive In The Heat<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-72962 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_634702469.jpg\" alt=\"Dog on hot pavement\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_634702469.jpg 500w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_634702469-300x217.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>Hot Cars and Hot Pavements<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to getting trapped inside hot cars, dogs have another nemesis: <strong>hot pavements.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Similar to cars, heat rises fast on pavements. Pavement absorbs heat easily, making it hotter than the air temperature. If the breeze is hot, expect the pavement to be even warmer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whereas dogs' coats help regulate heat, their <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/best-paw-protection-wax-for-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">paws<\/a> don't have the same feature.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before going out on a sunny day, feel the pavement\u2019s temperature first. Press your hand down on the concrete. If it\u2019s too hot for you, then it is definitely much hotter for your dog.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also estimate the temperature by feeling the breeze. If it feels too hot for you, it also feels too hot for your dog. A dog's respiratory system is much more limited than that of humans, so it is more heat-sensitive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the imminent danger that heated pavements bring to dogs, it\u2019s important to be ready with <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/dog-shoes-for-summer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"82602\">protective measures<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If it\u2019s impossible to avoid pavements during your routine walks, let your dog wear <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/does-your-puppy-need-dog-boots\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">booties<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/dog-shoes-for-summer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">shoes<\/a>. It may look funny for some, but safety trumps aesthetics this time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On a scorching day, choose to skip walking on pavements altogether. As an alternative, you can choose to drive over to the nearest dog park or<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/the-best-dog-daycare-alternatives\/\"> dog daycare<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Or, you can always choose to stay indoors. Clear some space for them to walk around. If you have a spacious yard, then that\u2019s even better.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Change your walking schedule to avoid burns during walks. If morning walks are too hot for your dog, opt for afternoon strolls for <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/safe-outdoor-temperatures-for-dogs\/\" data-lasso-id=\"82603\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">safer outdoor temperatures<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>RELATED:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/top-11-actionable-tips-to-protect-dog-paws-on-hot-pavement\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Top 11 Actionable Tips To Protect Dog Paws on Hot Pavement<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-72963 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_1295536174.jpg\" alt=\"dog inside hot car with a window cracked open\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_1295536174.jpg 500w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/shutterstock_1295536174-300x217.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Dogs_in_Cars_During_Summer_Safety_Tips\"><strong>Safety Tips for <\/strong><\/span><span id=\"Dogs_in_Cars_During_Summer_Safety_Tips\"><strong>Dogs in Cars During Summer<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span id=\"1_Don8217t_leave_your_dog_in_the_car\"><strong>1. Don't leave your dog in the car<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This is a no-brainer, but it should still be spelled out: Please don't leave them unattended in a parked car!<\/p>\n<p>Even cracking the windows a couple of inches to \u201clet the air in\u201d still won't make a difference.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, the vehicle interior still heats up just as much as a car with all windows closed! Take the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.avma.org\/resources-tools\/pet-owners\/petcare\/pets-vehicles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Veterinary Medical Association's<\/a>\u00a0words for that.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"2_Bring_a_companion_to_watch_over_the_dog\"><strong>2. Bring a companion to watch over the dog<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you really have to bring your dog with you, try to bring another person to watch over it. Leave them in the car with the engine and AC running to make them comfortable.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"3_Go_to_pet-friendly_stores\"><strong>3. Go to pet-friendly stores<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Many pet-friendly stores across the country will accommodate your furry friends as long as they're properly leashed.<\/p>\n<p>Ask the store you're going to, and maybe they'd happily welcome your dog, too!<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"4_Teach_your_dog_how_to_exit_properly\"><strong>4. Teach your dog how to exit properly<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Sometimes, our dogs can get so excited that they just zoom out of the car and run around. Teach them the \u2018wait' command.<\/p>\n<p>This way, you'll have enough time to ensure the surroundings are safe from any possible hazards (like a fast-approaching vehicle) before letting them out.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"5_Use_a_certified_and_crash-tested_leash_crate_or_carrier\"><strong>5. Use a certified and crash-tested leash, crate, or carrier<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You must also <span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">ensure that your dog is always\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/safest-dog-harness-for-car\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">secured and properly harnessed<\/a> in a moving car<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>This will prevent them from getting too naughty inside (a.k.a. exploring too much and causing distraction) or accidentally getting thrown out of a car.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"6_Leave_your_dog_at_home\"><strong>6. Leave your dog at home<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If it can be helped, just leave your pet where it will be the safest\u2014at home!<\/p>\n<p>These are only some of the tips you can follow to help your dogs keep safe in the car in the summer. For more tips and tricks, listen to our podcast\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/dogs-in-the-summer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"youtube-embed\" data-video_id=\"8w7ShS7lKSg\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Summer Time Can Bring The Heat And Other Problems, Be Prepared w\/ Dr. Lyndsey Kingsley @ BetterVet\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8w7ShS7lKSg?start=191&enablejsapi=1#038;feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n<div id=\"AdThrive_Content_15_desktop\" data-google-query-id=\"COjPj_fL7Y0DFQ6_SwUdFak9_w\">\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong><span id=\"Dogs_in_Cars_During_Summer_Fast_Facts\">Dogs in Cars During Summer: Fast Facts!<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Did you know\u2026?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\">Regardless of the temperature outside, a car's internal temperature can rise up to 20\u00b0 to 30\u00b0 in minutes<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\">Just an additional 2\u00b0 in a dog's body temperature can already cause heatstroke<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\">15 minutes is all it takes for a dog to die of heatstroke<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\">Cars, even parked in a shaded spot, can still heat up to dangerous levels<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\">Opening windows doesn't have much of a cooling effect inside a parked vehicle<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\">Short-muzzled dogs and those with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/15-red-dog-breeds-just-for-you\/\">dark-colored coats<\/a>\u00a0are more prone to overheating<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\">Leaving a pet inside a parked car is a crime in some states<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_Dogs_in_Cars\"><strong>FAQs About Dogs in Cars<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span id=\"What_car_temperature_is_too_hot_for_dogs\"><strong>What car temperature is too hot for dogs?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Because it only takes a vehicle interior to heat up to 20\u00b0 to 30\u00b0 in minutes, even 60\u00b0F can already be quite hot and dangerous for dogs to be left alone inside a car, according to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accuweather.com\/en\/weather-blogs\/weathermatrix\/even-60-degrees-is-too-hot-for-pets-in-cars\/71349\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AccuWeather.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Even cracking a window open doesn't affect how high a vehicle's interior temperature could get, regardless of whether it's parked in a shaded place.<\/p>\n<p>The safest thing to do is not to leave your dog unattended in a parked car.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"How_long_will_a_dog_last_in_a_hot_car\"><strong>How long will a dog last in a hot car?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Dogs only need an additional 2\u00b0 in their body temperature to get overheated and a total of 15 minutes to sustain a brain injury and eventually die because of heatstroke.<\/p>\n<p>But that doesn't mean you can go for a 5-minute run inside the convenience store because your dog can survive in the hot car for 15 minutes anyway. No! Just don't risk it.<\/p>\n<p>Also, remember that leaving dogs in a car means jail time in some states!<\/p>\n<h2><b>Do Not Leave a Dog Inside a Hot Car!<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leaving dogs inside cars on a hot day is an act of animal harm.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>There is no safe temperature for dogs to be left alone in a car, especially a parked one. That is a fact.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leaving them on their own can cause severe and irreversible damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>So remember always to be cautious, take necessary precautions, and safely enjoy the rest of the hot weather with your dog.<\/p>\n<p>Also, l<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">et\u2019s do our part to save more dogs from avoidable deaths. Continue to look out for and educate dog owners about their responsibility!<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Related Articles<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><em><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/another-ontario-dog-owner-charged-for-leaving-pet-inside-hot-car\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Another Ontario Dog Owner Charged For Leaving Pet Inside Hot Car<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/owner-abandons-dog-inside-car-to-buy-pet-food\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Owner Abandons Dog Inside Car on a Scorching Hot Day to Buy Pet Food<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/huskies-in-summer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Huskies in Summer: Can They Keep Up with the Heat?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-76573\" src=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Dog Inside A Hot Car\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2.jpeg 1080w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-100x100.jpeg 100w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-600x600.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-768x768.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-420x420.jpeg 420w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-640x640.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Leaving-A-Dog-Inside-A-Hot-Car-Don-t-Do-It-2-681x681.jpeg 681w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Leaving a dog inside a hot car is never a good idea, even if it\u2019s just for a few minutes, especially in summer. Minutes under the heat of a scorching sun can be death traps for anyone, especially inside a metal contraption. But what if you crack a window open? Is there a safe temperature [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":73122,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[150,659,520],"tags":[407,4657,325,715,4406,552],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72648"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/35"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=72648"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72648\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":143941,"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72648\/revisions\/143941"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/73122"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=72648"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=72648"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=72648"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}