Your Guide to Shih Tzu Heat Stroke

by Janice Jones, Last Updated February 2026

Heat stroke (also called hyperthermia) occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels, and the body can no longer cool itself effectively. This page is intended to help Shih Tzu owners recognize risk factors and early warning signs, and understand when immediate veterinary care is needed.

Risk Factors for Shih Tzu Heat Stroke

•  Exposure to hot conditions
•  The very young puppy or old senior
• Obesity
• Heart or lung problems
• Brachycephalic syndrome (Shih Tzu)
• Thick long coat (trim your Tzu’s hair short in the summer)
• Insufficient water intake
  

Causes

The Cause is extreme exposure to excessive heat and the signs may include: 

• Panting
• Increased body temperature
• Red tongue
• Pale gums
• Rapid heart rate
• Depression or Weakness
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures or tremors
• Shock
• Coma
• Death

This is a life-threatening emergency and first aid must be administered immediately. 

What to Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a veterinary emergency. If you believe your Shih Tzu may be overheating, move your dog to a cooler environment immediately and contact a veterinarian or emergency clinic right away.

While waiting for veterinary care, focus on reducing further heat exposure and keeping your dog calm. Avoid aggressive or rapid cooling methods unless directed by a veterinary professional.

When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care

Seek immediate veterinary attention if your Shih Tzu shows any of the following signs:

• Heavy or labored panting
• Weakness, collapse, or unresponsiveness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Bright red, pale, or blue gums
• Seizures or tremors

Heat stroke can progress rapidly and should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Treatment at the Veterinary Hospital

At the veterinary hospital, treatment focuses on stabilizing your dog and preventing further complications. This may include monitoring vital signs, providing fluids, and supporting breathing as needed.

Depending on the severity of the heat exposure, your veterinarian may recommend additional care or short-term hospitalization to ensure your Shih Tzu recovers safely.

Recovery and follow-up care will vary based on how quickly treatment begins and how severely your dog was affected.

The Best Medicine is Prevention

Shih Tzu dogs are especially sensitive to heat due to their facial structure and coat. Preventing heat stroke focuses on avoiding high temperatures, limiting exertion in warm weather, and ensuring access to shade, ventilation, and fresh water.

The Good News!  Shih Tzu Dogs are Extremely Smart

This is Mobie, a very smart Shih Tzu

If your dog is just hot after a romp in the back yard or a walk in the neighborhood, they know what they need to do to cool off.  Some will head straight to the water bowl, but this clever Shih Tzu has learned where the coolest place in the house is located and goes straight there to cool off.

Janice Jones is a Shih Tzu specialist and former breeder with a background in veterinary care, grooming, training, and canine behavior. She has spent nearly 50 years working with the breed and ran a home-based breeding program for 15 years, raising well-socialized puppies. Early in her career, she worked as a veterinary assistant supporting surgery, x-rays, and lab work. She shares practical guidance at miracleshihtzu.com and across social platforms. Today, she enjoys the quiet companionship of her aging dogs, understanding them as they understand her.

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You guessed it, I'm not a trained dog walker.