Walking Dogs in Hot Weather: Heatstroke and Paw Safety

By Dr Duncan Houston

A dog can overheat during an ordinary walk, especially when humidity is high or breathing is already difficult. An eager dog may keep following a ball long after the activity has become unsafe.

Skipping one walk is far less harmful than pushing through dangerous conditions. Toileting and enrichment can be adapted for a hot day.

Quick Answer

Walk during the coolest suitable conditions, choose shade and cooler surfaces, carry water and shorten activity before your dog struggles. There is no universal safe temperature or clock time because humidity, sun, exertion and individual health all matter. Excessive panting, weakness, confusion or collapse after heat exposure needs immediate cooling and emergency veterinary care.

Why do dogs overheat?

Panting is a major cooling mechanism, but it becomes less effective in humid air. Exercise generates heat internally, so even shaded activity can be risky. Flat-faced dogs, overweight dogs, puppies, seniors and dogs with heart or airway disease need extra caution.

The RSPCA Australia heatstroke advice identifies exercise, poor ventilation and lack of shade or water among relevant risks. Coat type matters, but a double coat does not make a dog immune to heat.

Decide whether to walk

Protect the paws without overlooking body heat

Asphalt, concrete, sand and metal can retain heat. If a surface is uncomfortable to your hand, avoid it, but a hand test cannot certify that a walk is safe. Check for limping, licking, redness or damaged pads afterwards.

Boots need correct fit and gradual introduction; they do not prevent heatstroke. Paw balm is not a dependable shield against hot ground. The safer choice is a cooler surface or postponing the outing.

When is this an emergency?

Suspected heatstroke is an emergency even if your dog improves during cooling. Organ injury can continue after outward signs settle. Do not delay action to find a thermometer or wait for a particular temperature reading.

1. Stop activity and move to shade or an air-conditioned area.
2. Wet the body with available water cooler than the dog, avoiding pouring water into the nose or mouth.
3. Use airflow from a fan or vehicle air conditioning.
4. Call the emergency clinic and begin transport after starting cooling, continuing cooling safely en route.

Do not wrap the dog in wet towels or force water into their mouth. Offer small drinks only if alert and able to swallow. RSPCA emergency guidance supports starting cooling immediately before transport.

Could panting mean something else?

Pain, fear, fever and heart or lung disease can also cause panting. Noisy or laboured breathing, especially in a flat-faced dog, should never be dismissed as normal. If the dog cannot settle comfortably in a cool place, contact a vet promptly.

Common mistakes

• Assuming an evening walk is safe while the air and ground remain hot.
• Using a fixed exercise target despite changing weather.
• Relying on cooling clothing while continuing strenuous activity.
• Leaving a dog in a parked car before or after the walk.

Make hot days easier

Use quiet scent searches, food puzzles and brief reward-based training in a cool room. Maintain normal access to fresh water and shaded rest. Groom appropriately for the coat, and ask for advice before shaving a double-coated dog. RSPCA summer guidance provides further practical precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a temperature below which every dog is safe?

No. Health, humidity, direct sun and activity level change the risk.

Can a dog get heatstroke while swimming?

Water does not remove every risk. Exertion, warm water and difficulty swimming can still be dangerous.

Should I make my dog drink lots before walking?

Provide normal access to water without forcing large amounts. Hydration does not make an unsafe walk safe.

Let comfort and conditions set the plan. Your dog does not need to earn a cool day indoors.

For everyday health and exercise guidance, explore ASK A VET™. Suspected heatstroke needs emergency veterinary care.