They don't call it the dog-days of summer for nothing. While it's amazing to get out and play after the snow melts, summer isn't always a walk in the park for pets.

Skyrocketing temperatures can be a harsh place for our pets, especially dogs who can be very sensitive to the heat.

Since dogs don't have the sweating mechanism that humans do to stay cool, they can overheat suddenly and it can be deadly.

Keep watch for some key signs of dogs overheating and when you see them, take your pup inside to cool off. Catching overheating early could literally save your dog's life.

Sign #1 Excessive Panting

Panting is a normal reaction to exercise or slightly warmer weather, but if you notice your dog breathing heavily and quickly, it may be time to take him inside to cool off.

"Animals pant to evaporate moisture from their lungs, which takes heat away from their body. If the humidity is too high, they are unable to cool themselves, and their temperature will skyrocket to dangerous levels "” very quickly," according to the Humane Society.

Sign #2 Dry or Pale Gums

If all of the sudden you notice your dog suddenly has pale or dry gums or that his tongue and mouth seem dry, that may been that he has become dehydrated.

An overheated dog will lose a lot of water while trying to regulate his body temperature, so this is a sign that you dog needs to cool off and grab a drink.

Sign #3 Excessive Drooling

While drooling is normal for most breeds of dogs, it could be a sign that your dog is in distress.

"Early signs of heatstroke include panting [and] hyper-salivation... Affected dogs become hyperactive and excitable," according to the American Kennel Club.

Continue onto the next page for more important signs.

When playing outside this summer, make sure that you don't overexert your dog.

Provide a shady spot where he can take a rest when he becomes hot or overtired.  

Always have water on hand to keep your furry friend hydrated.

It goes without saying, never ever leave your dog in a car. Even with the windows down the temperatures can reach deadly high within minutes.

Sign #4 Groaning, Heavy Breaths

While they may not have use of language, dogs can communicated distress with the sounds that they make. Using a heavy, groaning sound to alert people of his condition may be his way of asking for help.

Sign #5 Glazed Eyes

A dog who has been in the heat for too long may become disoriented and confused, leading to the glazed look.

According to the Humane Society, dogs who experience heat stroke may have glazed eyes, meaning they are staring straight ahead with their eyes unfocused.

Sign #6 Confusion and Dizziness

Dogs who may have been exposed to the heat for a long time may begin to show the signs of confusion.

A hyperthermic dog may experience hallucinations or become disoriented and scared.

If you think your dog may be experiencing heat exhaustion, make sure you give him water, but prevent him from drinking too much right away. Apply cool cloths onto his body to help him cool down.

If you suspect your dog may be in danger, contact a vet right away and schedule a check-up.