When is it too hot to walk my dog?

Going on regular walks with your canine companion is paramount for their health. Physical activity helps maintain their fitness, supports healthy weight, and strengthens muscles and joints. Just like with people, staying fit will benefit their life’s longevity and keep them with you for many more years. 

Without enough exercise, dogs are prone to obesity, behavioural issues, and health problems such as diabetes and arthritis. The mental stimulation they get during walks is equally important, as it engages their senses through new scents and sights, fostering a happier pooch. Walks provide crucial opportunities for socialisation with other dogs and people that can help their overall behaviour and ability to cope and enjoy daily life. 

Several factors contribute to determining when it's too hot to walk your fur baby. These include ambient temperature, humidity levels, and the type of surface your dog will be walking on. Each of these elements can significantly impact your pup’s ability to cope with the heat and enjoy their walk. 

The general rule of thumb is that if the temperature exceeds 25°C, it may be too hot to walk your dog safely. Dogs are less efficient at cooling themselves compared to humans, making them more susceptible to heat-related issues. At around 25°C we start to feel the heat so imagine how much harder it would be if you couldn’t sweat very well and were covered in an insulating layer of fur.  

High humidity can exacerbate the effects of heat, making it harder for your pup to cool down through panting. Make sure you check both temperature and humidity levels before deciding to walk your dog. The temperature may be lower than 25°C but if humidity is high they can still find exercise difficult.  

Hot pavements can burn your dog's paws. A simple test is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Consider walking on grass or shaded areas instead. You may consider taking your pooch to the beach to cool off on a hot day but sand can actually be even hotter than walking on concrete. Be sure to check temperatures wherever you go and always test the ground for how much the surface retains heat.  

It's generally considered too hot to walk your dog when temperatures exceed 25°C, especially if humidity levels are high or the walking surface is hot. Always prioritise your furry family member’s safety and comfort when making this decision. A hot day doesn’t mean you have to forego a walk altogether but it just means that you should be going on your stroll before the sun is high in the sky and after it has started to set. You can check your local sunrise and sunset times to plan ahead.  

Recognising the signs of overheating in your pooch is vital to prevent serious health risks such as heatstroke. Dogs are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses because of their limited ability to cool down through panting and limited sweat glands. Early identification of overheating symptoms can make all the difference during hot weather. Look out for the following warning signs: 

By monitoring your dog closely and being aware of these symptoms, you can take prompt action to cool them down and seek vet care when necessary. 

When it's too hot to walk your dog outside, there are plenty of ways to keep them active indoors. Consider engaging in interactive play like tug-of-war or fetch with soft toys. Setting up an obstacle course using household items can provide both mental and physical stimulation. Teaching new tricks or practicing basic commands can also be a great way to keep your furry family member mentally engaged. Puzzle toys filled with treats can keep your pet occupied for longer periods when you can’t play with them so staying inside doesn’t have to feel like they’re on house arrest!  

One effective way to keep your dog cool on a hot day is by offering frozen treats. You can make these at home by freezing their favourite liquids or purees. Options include frozen chicken broth, pieces of fruit like watermelon, or even their very own frozen yoghurt made just for them like Frozzy's Strawberry Frozen Yoghurt Dog Treat.  

Investing in a cooling mat can provide your dog with a comfortable place to relax. These mats are designed to regulate your pet’s body temperature and can be placed in your furry friend’s favourite resting spot. If your pooch enjoys water, a paddling pool can be a handy addition to your garden. Fill the pool with cool water and encourage your dog to splash and play. This not only helps in cooling them down but also provides a fun and stimulating activity. 

Combining different cooling methods will make sure your pup can be comfortable and keep healthy during the hottest days. 

Different dog breeds and individual health conditions can affect how well a dog tolerates heat. Brachycephalic or flat faced breeds like bulldogs and pugs are more susceptible to overheating due to their short snouts, which make breathing harder. Research your dog's breed-specific traits so you can understand what sort of environments they may struggle in. Some breeds are naturally more tolerant of heat, while others require extra care. 

Fur babies with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart or respiratory issues, are at higher risk of heat-related problems. If you’re worried about keeping them cool in hot weather, have a chat with your vet to discuss the risks and manage their activities in the summer.  

Regular grooming can help your canine companion stay cool. It might not seem like a top priority when they aren’t getting too dirty every day but removing excess fur and keeping their coat maintained can improve air circulation and reduce heat retention. Frequent brushing helps remove loose fur and prevents matting, which can trap heat. Use appropriate brushes for your pooch’s coat type to make it faster and easier. 

For dogs with long or thick coats, consider getting a professional trim during the summer months. Avoid shaving your dog completely, as their fur also provides protection against sunburn. 

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining your pet’s health during hot weather. Providing a balanced and nutritious diet can help support their overall well-being and energy levels. Incorporate hydrating foods into their diet. Refreshing treats like watermelon can help keep your pup hydrated and provide a refreshing treat. If you don’t think they’re getting enough water, you can add wet food into their diet to boost the water content.  

Avoid overfeeding your furry companion during hot weather, as excess weight can increase the risk of overheating. While you're inside in the middle of the day with them it might be tempting to give them lots of treats to keep them busy but be mindful of the extra calories. You can find ways to make their usual meals last longer and feed it throughout the day instead.  

Understanding when it's too hot to walk your dog is essential for their health and safety. By considering factors like ambient temperature, humidity, and surface heat, you can make informed decisions about their exercise routine. For all of your essential indoor activities and products to keep your furry friend cool, visit us in store and online.