The sun’s out, the days are longer, and summer in the UK has finally arrived. But while we’re soaking up the sunshine, our dogs may be struggling, especially when it comes to daily walks.
Dogs don’t sweat like we do. Their main way of cooling down is through panting, and in hot, humid weather, it’s simply not enough. Overheating and heatstroke can develop quickly and can be fatal without fast action.
So, what’s the safest way to walk your dog when the temperature rises?
1. Walk early or late
Vet experts including the PDSA and Blue Cross recommend walking your dog during cooler hours, ideally before 8am or after 8pm in a heatwave. These times reduce the risk of burned paws and overheating.
2. Check the pavement temperature
Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5–7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your skin, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Burned pads are painful and can take weeks to heal.
Instead, choose shaded grass or woodland paths, or skip the walk entirely on very hot days and focus on indoor enrichment.
3. Hydration is essential
Always carry fresh, cool water and a portable bowl. Offer drinks regularly and encourage your dog to take breaks in the shade. Add water to your dog’s meals during the hotter months for an extra hydration boost.
4. Rethink what a “walk” means
Your dog doesn’t need a big outdoor walk in extreme heat. Try enrichment activities indoors instead, like:
- Licki mats with frozen yoghurt or wet food
- Snuffle mats and scatter feeding
- Simple training games or puzzle toys
- Short toilet breaks in the garden with a paddling pool
5. Learn the signs of heatstroke in dogs
Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency. According to the RSPCA and VetHelpDirect, early signs include:
- Excessive panting and drooling
- Bright red or pale gums
- Lethargy or collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Wobbly movements or confusion
If you notice any of these, cool your dog immediately with tepid (not ice-cold) water and get to a vet urgently.
6. Cooling tips that actually help
- Use a cooling mat or damp towel for resting
- Offer frozen treats or ice cubes
- Use fans indoors and keep curtains closed to block direct sunlight
- Never leave dogs in a parked car, even for a few minutes, the temperature inside can rise dangerously fast
Final Thought: It’s okay to skip a walk
You are not being lazy, you’re being responsible. Dogs can suffer and even die from heatstroke within minutes. On hot days, less really is more.
Be kind to your dog, and to yourself. Choose shade, water, and rest – the zoomies can wait.
Sources
- Blue Cross
- PDSA
- RSPCA
- VetHelpDirect