Summer walks can be one of the best parts of a dog's day. They get fresh air, exercise, mental stimulation, and all the neighbourhood smells they love.
As temperatures rise, it's important to be extra mindful. Dogs do not cool down the same way we do, and hot pavement can burn their paws faster than many people realize.
Whether you are a pet parent or a dog walker, here are a few simple ways to make summer walks safer.
Walk earlier or later in the day
The safest time to walk a dog in hot weather is usually early in the morning or later in the evening, when the air and pavement are cooler.
Try to avoid walking during the hottest part of the day, especially in the afternoon when sidewalks and roads have had hours to heat up. Even if the temperature feels manageable to you, it may feel much hotter to your dog, especially if they have a thick coat, short nose, or lower heat tolerance.
Check the pavement before you go
Before heading out, place the back of your hand on the pavement for a few seconds. If it feels too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog's paws.
Hot pavement, asphalt, concrete, and artificial turf can all become uncomfortable or even unsafe for dogs. When possible, choose grassy areas, shaded paths, or tree-lined streets instead.
Bring water and take breaks
Dogs can overheat quickly, especially during longer walks or humid weather. Bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl if you are going out for more than a quick potty break.
Take breaks in the shade and let the dog set the pace. A summer walk does not need to be long to be helpful. Sometimes a shorter, slower walk with lots of sniffing is better than a longer walk in uncomfortable heat.
Know which dogs need extra care
All dogs can struggle in hot weather, but some dogs are more sensitive to heat than others. Be extra careful with small puppies, senior dogs, flat-faced breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, and Boxers, overweight dogs, thick-coated breeds, and dogs with heart, breathing, or health concerns.
For these dogs, a short shaded walk or indoor enrichment may be a better choice on very hot days.
Watch for signs of overheating
It is important to pay attention to how a dog is acting during a hot-weather walk. Signs that a dog may be overheating include heavy panting, excessive drooling, slowing down or refusing to walk, weakness, stumbling, vomiting, confusion, or collapse.
If you notice any of these signs, stop the walk right away. Move the dog to a shaded or cooler area, offer water, and contact a veterinarian if you are concerned.
Skip the walk when it is too hot
Sometimes the safest choice is to skip the walk altogether. On very hot days, try a quick potty break followed by indoor activities instead.
Puzzle toys, training practice, gentle play, frozen dog-safe treats, or a snuffle mat can help keep a dog busy without putting them at risk in the heat. Dogs still need care and stimulation, but that does not always have to mean a full outdoor walk.
Tips for dog walkers and pet sitters
If you offer dog walking or pet care services, summer safety should be part of your routine. Before walking a dog in hot weather, check in with the pet parent about the dog's age, breed, health needs, and usual walking habits.
If the weather feels unsafe, communicate clearly. You can suggest a shorter walk, a shaded route, a potty break with indoor playtime, or a later walk if the schedule allows.
Pet parents appreciate sitters who make thoughtful decisions and put their dog's comfort first.
Final thoughts
Walking dogs in the heat takes a little extra planning, but it can make a big difference.
Choose cooler times of day, check the pavement, bring water, take breaks, and pay attention to how the dog is feeling. When the heat is too much, it is okay to keep things short and move the fun indoors.
At Hello Marshy, we believe great pet care starts with trust, communication, and thoughtful care. Whether you are booking a local dog walker or offering dog walking services yourself, summer safety matters.
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