Summer means longer days, more outdoor time with your dog, and one serious risk that many owners underestimate: heat. Every year, dogs suffer heat-related injuries during walks that could have been prevented with basic precautions.
Whether you're walking your own dog or hiring a walker, here's what to know about keeping dogs safe in warm weather.
The Pavement Test
Press the back of your hand to the pavement for 7 seconds. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Asphalt can reach 150°F on a 90°F day. Concrete is slightly cooler but still dangerous. Grass and dirt paths are always the safest option in hot weather.
Best Times to Walk
- Before 9am — Pavement is coolest, air temperature is lowest. This is the ideal window for longer walks during summer.
- After 7pm — Sun is down but pavement may still be warm. Test first and stick to grassy areas if the ground is still hot.
- Avoid 11am-4pm — Peak heat hours. If you must go out, stick to grass and shade. Keep it to a quick potty break, not a full walk.
Warning Signs of Overheating
Know these signs and stop the walk immediately if you see them:
- Excessive panting or drooling (more than normal for the activity level)
- Bright red tongue or gums
- Stumbling, weakness, or disorientation
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Glazed eyes or unresponsiveness
Move your dog to shade immediately, offer small amounts of water (not ice water, which can cause shock), and cool them with wet towels on their belly and paw pads. If symptoms don't improve within 10 minutes, get to a vet immediately.
Hydration
Bring water on every summer walk — even short ones. A collapsible bowl weighs nothing and can prevent dehydration. Dogs need about 1 oz of water per pound of body weight daily, and that can double in summer heat.
Signs of dehydration include dry gums, excessive drooling, lethargy, and loss of skin elasticity (gently pinch the skin on the back of their neck — if it doesn't snap back immediately, they need water).
Breed-Specific Risks
Some breeds are at higher risk in summer heat:
- Brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers) — Their shortened airways make it harder to cool down through panting. Limit walks to early morning and keep them short.
- Dark-coated dogs — Dark fur absorbs more heat. Consider a light, UV-protective dog shirt for longer outings.
- Overweight dogs — Extra weight means extra heat retention. These dogs overheat faster and recover slower.
- Senior dogs — Older dogs have less efficient cooling systems. Reduce walk duration by 25-50% in summer.
For Dog Walkers: Summer Protocols
If you're a professional dog walker, summer demands extra precautions:
- Carry water for every dog on every walk — no exceptions
- Plan routes with shade and grass access
- Check pavement temperature before starting the walk
- Know the location of the nearest veterinary emergency clinic on your route
- Communicate proactively with owners about heat-related schedule adjustments
Communicating With Your Walker
If you hire a dog walker, seasonal changes are something you should discuss proactively. A good walker will already be thinking about weather-related adjustments, but you know your dog best. Share any seasonal concerns:
- Does your dog have seasonal allergies or sensitivities?
- Are there temperature thresholds where you'd prefer a shorter walk or indoor play?
- Does your dog need any seasonal gear (coat, boots, cooling vest)?
- Should walk times shift to avoid extreme heat or darkness?
- Are there any routes to avoid (construction, treated lawns, flooded paths)?
The walkers who stand out are the ones who adapt without being asked — but clear communication makes the relationship work better for everyone. A quick text before a season change ("Hey, just a heads up that Max gets itchy in spring — please avoid freshly mowed grass") takes 30 seconds and prevents problems.
Keeping a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, even when the seasons change. If you need to adjust walk times due to weather, try to keep the overall schedule as consistent as possible. A dog who expects a walk at noon will be anxious if it's suddenly at 4pm with no pattern. Gradual shifts (15-30 minutes at a time) are easier for dogs to adjust to.
If weather forces you to skip a walk entirely, substitute with indoor activity — puzzle toys, training sessions, or indoor play. A dog who gets zero stimulation on a weather day is more likely to develop behavioral issues than one who gets an adjusted version of their normal routine.
Seasonal Gear Essentials
The right gear makes every season manageable. Here's what to keep on hand:
- Summer — Collapsible water bowl, cooling bandana, and paw wax for hot pavement. Light-colored gear reflects heat.
- Fall — Reflective collar or LED clip for shorter days. A light jacket for small or short-haired breeds on cool mornings.
- Winter — Insulated dog coat, paw booties or wax for salt protection, and reflective gear for dark commutes.
- Spring — Paw wipes for post-walk pollen removal, tick prevention medication (start before the season), and a towel for muddy returns.
- Year-round — Waste bags, a sturdy 4-6 foot leash, ID tags with current contact info, and your vet's phone number saved in your phone.
If your walker provides their own gear, great. If not, leave everything they need in an easy-to-find spot by the door so they can grab it and go.
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Prices and information in this article are based on publicly available data and may vary. Last updated 2026.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for medical concerns about your pet.
Written by HeyDog Team
Practical pet care advice from the team behind HeyDog.