Summer fun often means more outdoor adventures with our furry companions, but rising temperatures pose a serious risk to dogs. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat efficiently, making them highly susceptible to overheating and potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Knowing when it’s too hot to walk a dog is crucial for every pet parent to ensure their canine’s safety and well-being during warmer months.
Safe temperature ranges by age, breed & coat type
There’s no single “too hot” temperature for all dogs, as individual factors significantly influence their heat tolerance.
- Under 70°F (21°C): Generally safe for most dogs, provided they have access to water and shade. Normal exercise can be maintained.
- 70-80°F (21-27°C):
- Caution Zone for most dogs.
- High Risk for: Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers), senior dogs, puppies, overweight dogs, and those with underlying health conditions (e.g., heart or respiratory issues). Limit walks to short, essential potty breaks during cooler parts of the day.
- Moderate Risk for: Dogs with thick double coats (Huskies, Golden Retrievers) or dense single coats (Poodles) due to insulation. Shorter walks in the shade, increased water breaks, and constant monitoring are essential.
- Lower Risk for: Healthy, well-conditioned dogs with short single coats (Labs, Greyhounds). Still, monitor closely and avoid peak sun.
- 80-85°F (27-29°C):
- High Risk for most dogs. Even short walks can be dangerous.
- Consider only very short potty breaks on grass, not pavement. Prioritize indoor activities.
- Above 85°F (29°C):
- Extreme Danger for ALL dogs. Exercise outdoors should be strictly avoided. Even short exposure can lead to heatstroke. Potty breaks should be swift, in shade, and on cool surfaces.
Additional Factors:
- Humidity: High humidity makes it harder for dogs to cool down through panting, significantly increasing the risk of heatstroke, even at moderate temperatures.
- Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight dramatically increases body temperature. Prioritize shade.
- Activity Level: A leisurely stroll in 75°F is different from a brisk run. The more strenuous the activity, the lower the safe temperature threshold.
- Acclimation: Dogs not used to warm weather will struggle more.
The “7-second pavement test” explained
One of the most immediate dangers on hot days is superheated pavement, asphalt, or concrete. These surfaces absorb and retain heat, becoming significantly hotter than the air temperature. Walking your dog on hot pavement can cause severe burns to their paw pads within minutes.
How to Perform the 7-Second Pavement Test:
- Place the back of your hand flat on the pavement (or asphalt, concrete, sand).
- Hold it there for seven seconds.
- If it’s too hot for your hand to comfortably hold for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Even if the air feels fine to you, the ground can be scorching.
If the pavement fails the test, seek out grassy areas, shady spots, or consider alternative activities until the surfaces cool down, typically in the early morning or late evening.
Signs of heat stress to watch for
Recognizing the early signs of overheating is critical to preventing heatstroke, a medical emergency.
- Excessive Panting: Much heavier and faster than normal, even when resting.
- Increased Drooling: Thick, ropey saliva.
- Red Gums: Gums appear darker red than usual.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea: Can be signs of severe heat stress.
- Wobbling, Weakness, or Lethargy: Your dog may seem disoriented, stumble, or be unusually tired.
- Glazed Eyes: A distant or glassy look.
- Collapse: Your dog may fall over and be unable to get up.
- Seizures: A sign of severe neurological damage due to heatstroke.
- Unconsciousness: An emergency.
If you observe any of these signs, especially the more severe ones (collapse, seizures, red gums, vomiting), take immediate action:
- Get your dog to a cooler area immediately. (Shade, air-conditioned car/building).
- Offer small amounts of cool (not icy) water.
- Apply cool (not icy) water to their paw pads, groin, and armpits. You can use wet towels. Do NOT immerse them in cold water or use ice, as this can constrict blood vessels and hinder cooling.
- Contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency vet immediately. Even if your dog seems to recover, internal damage may have occurred.
Tips for hot weather walking: Time, shade, hydration
Adjusting your routine during hot weather can make a significant difference in your dog’s safety and comfort.
- Walk During Cooler Hours: The best times are early morning (before 8 AM) and late evening (after 8 PM), once the sun has set and surfaces have cooled. Avoid midday walks entirely.
- Prioritize Shade: Plan routes that offer plenty of natural shade from trees or buildings. Stick to grassy areas rather than pavement whenever possible.
- Hydration is Key:
- Always Carry Water: Bring plenty of fresh, cool water for both you and your dog. A collapsible dog bowl is indispensable.
- Offer Frequently: Offer water every 10-15 minutes, even if your dog doesn’t seem thirsty.
- Pre-Hydrate: Ensure your dog has access to water before you leave.
- Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car: Even with windows cracked, car interiors can reach deadly temperatures in minutes. This is true even on moderately warm days or if parked in the shade.
- Consider Paw Protection: Dog booties can provide a barrier between sensitive paw pads and hot surfaces.
- Keep Grooming Up-to-Date: For dogs with long or thick coats, a summer trim by a professional groomer can help them stay cooler. For double-coated breeds, proper deshedding (never shaving!) helps them regulate temperature by removing insulating undercoat.
- Watch for Brachycephalic Breeds: Flat-faced dogs are particularly vulnerable due to their compromised airways. Their outdoor time should be severely limited in heat.
- Bring a Cooling Vest or Bandana: These can help regulate body temperature by using evaporative cooling.
- Know Your Dog: Every dog is different. Pay close attention to your dog’s individual signs of fatigue or discomfort and end the walk immediately if concerns arise.
Golden Paw’s hot weather safety protocols
At Golden Paw Pet Services, the safety and well-being of every dog in our care are our top priorities, especially when temperatures rise. We implement rigorous protocols to ensure your dog stays cool, comfortable, and safe during hot weather.
- Constant Temperature Monitoring: Our facility monitors outdoor temperatures and humidity levels continuously. All outdoor activities are adjusted based on these readings and our established heat safety thresholds.
- Adjusted Outdoor Schedules: During periods of high heat, we shift outdoor playtime and potty breaks to the cooler parts of the day – very early mornings and late evenings. Midday outdoor access is strictly limited to quick, essential potty breaks in shaded, grassy areas only.
- Vigilant Hydration: Fresh, cool water is always available in multiple locations indoors and outdoors. During any outdoor time, our staff consistently offers water to all dogs and encourages frequent hydration.
- Emphasis on Indoor Comfort & Play: When outdoor conditions are too hot, our spacious, air-conditioned indoor play areas become the primary hub for exercise and mental stimulation. We organize engaging group play sessions (for compatible dogs) and provide individual enrichment activities.
- Staff Training & Awareness: Our team members are extensively trained to recognize even the earliest signs of heat stress or overheating. They are vigilant in monitoring every dog’s panting, energy levels, and overall demeanor.
- Immediate Response Protocols: In the rare event a dog shows any signs of heat stress, our staff are trained to act immediately, applying cooling techniques and contacting emergency veterinary services and pet parents without delay.
- Paw Protection: We are mindful of hot surfaces. Dogs are always guided to cool, grassy areas for outdoor relief, and staff check pavement temperatures before any extended walks are considered.
- Shade & Cooling Stations: Our outdoor areas are equipped with ample shade structures, and we utilize misters or wading pools (for splash fun, never as the sole cooling method) to help dogs cool down during brief outdoor excursions.
You can rest assured that your dog is in capable and caring hands at Golden Paw, even on the hottest days. We take every precaution to ensure their stay is as comfortable and safe as possible.
Planning a trip during warmer months or seeking a safe, cool environment for your dog during the day?
Contact Golden Paw Pet Services today to learn more about our hot weather safety protocols and book your dog’s stay!
