Vet Approved Summer Dog Walking Tips: Heat Safety, Paw Care & Hydration (2025)🩺🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your dog—but high temperatures, sun exposure, and hot pavement can pose serious risks. As a veterinarian, I often treat dogs for paw burns, dehydration, and even heatstroke during warm months—all of which are preventable with the right precautions. 🐾☀️

This guide will help you walk your dog safely in summer by covering heat risk signs, ideal walking times, protective gear, and how Ask A Vet. 🩺

🌡️ Understand the Heat Risk

Dogs cool themselves by panting and sweating through their paw pads. This makes them more prone to overheating than humans—especially on humid days or hot surfaces. Even a walk that feels “fine” to you can be dangerous to your dog. 🚨

Signs of Heat Stress:

• 🐶 Heavy panting
• 😓 Drooling
• 🌀 Staggering or confusion
• 🚱 Refusing water
• 🥵 Bright red or pale gums

Heatstroke Symptoms:

• 💥 Vomiting or diarrhea
• 🧠 Seizures or collapse
• 🌡️ Rectal temperature above 104°F (40°C)

These are emergencies—contact your vet or use Ask A Vet for immediate advice. 🆘

🕐 Best Times to Walk in Summer

• ⏰ Early morning (before 8 a.m)
• 🌇 Late evening (after 7 p.m)
• 🌴 Stick to shady, grassy areas whenever possible

⚠️ Avoid Midday Heat:

Surfaces like asphalt can reach 140°F+ by mid-afternoon—hot enough to burn paw pads in seconds. 🥵

🐾 Paw Protection Tips

1. 🚶 Do the “7-Second Test”

Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog. 🖐️🔥

2. 👟 Use Dog Booties

• Protect paws from burns and chemicals
• Look for breathable, non-slip soles

3. 🧴 Apply Paw Balms

• Moisturizes pads and prevents cracking
• Choose pet-safe, wax-based formulas

💧 Hydration Essentials

• 🍼 Carry collapsible bowls and fresh water
• 🥗 Feed water-rich treats (like cucumbers or ice cubes)
• 💧 Offer water breaks every 15–20 minutes

🎽 Gear for Summer Walks

✅ Recommended Items:

• ☀️ Reflective leash or harness
• 🎽 Cooling vest or bandana (soak in water)
• 🧴 Sunscreen for light-colored or short-haired dogs

🧬 Breeds That Need Extra Summer Care

• 🐶 Brachycephalic dogs (Pugs, Bulldogs, Frenchies)
• 🐕 Heavy-coated breeds (Huskies, Newfoundlands, Collies)
• 🐾 Seniors and puppies
• 🧠 Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions

Veterinary Tip:

Always check with your vet about summer fitness plans—especially for older dogs or those on medications. Use Ask A Vet for personalized fitness advice. 🩺

🎾 Indoor Alternatives on Hot Days

• 🐶 Short hallway fetch or scent games

Avoid long midday walks by shifting to mentally stimulating games instead. 🧠

📅 Summer Walking Safety Checklist

• 🕐 Walk early or late
• 🐾 Use paw protection
• 💧 Bring water + bowl
• 🌿 Use cooling vests or shade
• 📱 Know emergency signs & consult Ask A Vet

✅ Final Thoughts: Walk Smart, Stay Cool

Summer walks are healthy and fun—but only if you take proper precautions. With the right schedule, gear, and hydration, you can enjoy every sunny step together. 🌞🐕

Quick Recap:

• 🌡️ Watch for signs of overheating
• 🐾 Protect paw pads with booties or balm
• 💧 Stay hydrated and avoid midday walks
• 📱 Use Ask A Vet for quick health advice
  

Need expert advice? Visit AskAVet.com. 🐾☀️