Which of the following is a sign that an older dog may be overheating?

• A. Licking lips
• B. Heavy panting
• C. Shivering
• D. Snoring

Answer: (B)

Overheating in dogs primarily shows up as heavy panting because panting is how dogs evaporate heat from their breathing passages and tongue to cool down. Older dogs may have a reduced ability to regulate temperature, so they often show rapid, heavy panting as a clear signal that they’re overheating.

The other signs listed don’t point to heat stress as directly. Licking lips can happen with nausea, a dry mouth, or anxiety. Shivering typically signals cold, pain, or stress rather than overheating. Snoring relates to airway issues or sleep posture and isn’t a telltale sign of heat exposure.

If you notice heavy panting, move the dog to a cool, shaded area, offer water, and use a fan or cool damp towels to bring the temperature down gradually. Avoid ice-cold water or immersion, and seek veterinary care promptly if panting is extreme, persistent, or accompanied by lethargy, vomiting, drooling, or collapse.