What symptom indicates a dog may be collapsing from heat stroke?

Disorientation is a critical symptom indicative of a dog experiencing heat stroke. As a dog’s body temperature rises excessively, it can lead to a failure in cognitive function. Signs of disorientation can include a lack of coordination, inability to respond to commands, confusion, or even collapsing. When a dog is suffering from heat stroke, it is essential to act quickly, as severe disorientation can lead to more critical health complications or even be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

Restlessness, while it can be a sign of discomfort due to heat, is less specific compared to disorientation. Increased tail wagging or barking excitedly may often be a sign of excitement or anxiety and are not typically recognized as symptoms of heat stroke. These behaviors do not directly reflect the neurological impact or serious health risks associated with heat stress.