Hey friends, with summer creeping in and the UK sun making some welcome appearances, a question I hear a lot is: “How hot is too hot to take my dog for a walk?” We all want to get outside with our pups, but keeping them safe in the heat is super important.
So, how do we know when it’s time to pause those walks or change up our routine?
Heat Can Be Dangerous for Our Dogs
Dogs don’t cool down like we do — they mainly pant and sweat a bit through their paws. When we get hot, we can just take a few layers off, but our dogs can't take off their fur! Even if you take your dog to the groomers for a summer trim, they are still more susceptible to the heat than we are. So when it’s hot, they can struggle more than we might expect. If they get too hot, they risk heatstroke, which is scary and can happen fast. We definitely don’t want that!
When Does It Get Too Hot?
There’s no exact number for every dog, but generally speaking, once it’s above 20-22°C (68-72°F), we need to start paying close attention. That might seem quite mild, but factors like your dog’s breed, age, health, and coat can make a huge difference.
For example:
- Flat-faced dogs like Bulldogs or Pugs can overheat much quicker.
- Older dogs or puppies might find it harder to stay cool.
- Thick or dark coats soak up more heat, so those dogs feel it more too.
How Can We Tell if It’s Too Hot?
Here are some quick things we can do before heading out:
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Check the weather — Look beyond just the temperature. Humidity and direct sun make a difference.
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Feel the ground! Put the back of your hand on the pavement for a few seconds. If it’s too hot for your skin, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.
- Think about your dog’s needs. Some of our furry friends need extra care when it’s warm, especially those with thick coats or health concerns.
What Can We Do to Keep Walks Safe?
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Try walking early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
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Stick to shady routes or grassy areas to avoid hot pavement. A walk in the woods can be up to 15 degrees cooler thanks to the dense protection of the trees as well as evapotranspiration. This can vary by location, so make sure to check!
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Bring water for your pup (and yourself) and offer breaks.
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A water spray bottle can help cool them too. Just make sure you only wet (gently) under their legs, on the belly and paws. Spraying fur can act as an insulator (bad on hot days!) if your dog has long hair or thick fur. Note: Please don't use a spray bottle for cooling if your dog has been reprimanded this way in the past as it could cause them distress.
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Shorten walks and keep an eye on how your dog’s feeling.
- A cooling vest can also work well. This works very differently from using a wet towel, which can actually trap heat and make your dog hotter!
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Remember, if you see heavy panting, drooling, or your dog looking tired or confused, it’s time to get them somewhere cool and get help.
What If It’s Just Too Hot?
No worries if you have to skip walks sometimes. Indoor play, training, and mental games can be just as tiring and fun. And a cool, comfy spot with fresh water is a must-have during those warm days.
We love getting outside with our dogs, but it’s all about tuning into their needs and the environment. The UK weather might not always be blazing, but when the sun does show up, being cautious keeps our pups happy and safe.
Got any tips or stories about managing walks in the heat? Drop them below — I’d love to hear how you and your dogs stay cool!
Handy Resources if You Want to Read More
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Royal Veterinary College on Heatstroke:
https://www.rvc.ac.uk/small-animal-vet/teaching-and-research/fact-files/heatstroke-in-dogs-and-cats -
Blue Cross Guide to Keeping Dogs Cool:
https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/health-and-injuries/top-tips-for-keeping-your-dog-cool-and-safe-in-summer -
Dog's Trust Hot Weather Safety Tips:
https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/seasonal/hot-weather
