Summer is in full swing, and that means hot temperatures! While we love spending time outside, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with extreme heat, particularly when it comes to our pets. So, how hot is it too hot to walk dogs? Let’s take a look.
What Are the Dangers of Walking Dogs in Hot Weather Conditions
1. Heat Exhaustion: A dog’s breed can help determine if it can do well in hot weather. Dogs cool themselves off by panting and releasing heat through their paw pads, so if they become too hot, they can suffer from heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy panting, drooling, glazed eyes, vomiting or diarrhea, weakness or collapse, and seizures. If you notice any of these signs in your pup during a walk in hot temperatures, immediately move them to an excellent spot and call your vet for further instructions.
2. Paws On Hot Surfaces: Asphalt and concrete can get dangerously hot ground during the summer months—so much so that it can burn your dog’s paws! To avoid this danger, only take your dog for walks early in the morning or later at night when the sun isn’t as intense, and the pavement is cooler. You can also purchase booties and apply special paw wax to your dog’s paw pads to protect your feet while they are out during hot and cold weather.
3. Dehydration: In addition to overheating, dogs can quickly become dehydrated when out in a high temperature because they lose fluids faster than we do due to their fur coats and shorter snouts that cause them to pant more often than humans do. Ensure you bring plenty of water during long walks—one bowl won’t be enough! And if possible, carry water and a collapsible water bowl with you on short walks to ensure they stay hydrated throughout the day. Take note that the water should not be ice water.
4. Sunburns: Yes—dogs can get sunburned too! Certain breeds with lighter skin or thin coats are particularly vulnerable to sunburns, so ensure you have some sunscreen handy when you take them outside on sunny days! Some pet stores sell sunscreens that are specifically formulated for dogs. Still, any natural sunscreen should suffice as long as it doesn’t contain zinc oxide or salicylates which are toxic for animals if ingested.
5. Heat Stroke: The most severe danger associated with walking dogs on a warm day is heat stroke—which occurs when a dog’s temperature rises above 104°F (40°C). Symptoms include excessive panting/drooling, difficulty breathing, confusion/disorientation/collapse, vomiting/diarrhea/seizures/unconsciousness. If these symptoms occur while walking with your pup, seek immediate medical attention from a veterinarian!
Signs That It’s Too Hot to Walk Your Dog Outside
Body Temperature
A dog’s temperature should stay between 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. If their temperature rises above that, it could indicate that they are becoming overheated. Check their temperature before taking them out for a walk, particularly on warmer weather. If their temperature exceeds 102 degrees, you should wait until their body cools down before taking them out for a stroll.
Breathing Rate
An increase in panting or heavy breathing can also indicate that your pup is becoming overheated. While panting is normal for dogs, if they are panting excessively or having difficulty catching their breath, this could indicate heat exhaustion or even heat stroke and should not be ignored.
Behavioral Changes
Another sign that it might be the temperature is too hot outside to take your pup for a walk is if they start displaying behavioral changes such as lethargy or listlessness—this could indicate they are feeling overwhelmed by the summer heat and need some time in a cooler environment before heading out on a walk. Make sure to know your dog’s body language.
How to Safely Exercise Your Dog During the Summer Walks
If it is too hot to walk outside for you, it’s too hot for them! So here are some tips on how to keep your pup safe while walking in warm weather:
Walk your dog early and go late
Avoid walks during the warmer weather oof the day (usually between 11 am-3 pm). Early morning or evening walks are generally cooler and more comfortable for you and Fido.
Bring water
Always bring plenty of water when out on a walk with your pup. You may want to purchase a portable water bowl or bottle specifically designed for dogs to help keep them hydrated during long outdoor walks.
Take it slow
Shorten their leash length, so they don’t pull too hard and tire themselves quickly from overexertion in the heat. The slower pace also helps keep their body temperature regulated better than running around would do.
Find shade
Find shady spots along your route so they can take breaks to stay cool while walking around outside on hot days.
Pay attention
If you notice any signs of distress, such as excessive panting or drooling, immediately stop the walk and give them time to recover in a cooler place before continuing with your journey together.
Tips for Keeping Your Pet Cool and Comfortable During Walks
Choose Your Time Wisely
Heat rises throughout the day, so if you take your pet for a walk in the afternoon or evening, he will be exposed to more intense temperatures than if you took him out early in the morning. If possible, pick cooler times during the day, such as right after sunrise or late at night when temperatures have dropped.
Be Mindful of Surfaces
Asphalt absorbs heat and can burn your dog’s paws if exposed too long. To prevent this, keep an eye out for shady spots on your route so that you can give his feet a break from walking on hot surfaces. Additionally, pay attention to any areas with sand or gravel; these materials also get very hot quickly and can cause burns or other issues.
Bring Water and Towels
Like us, dogs need to stay hydrated during hot weather—especially when exercising. So always bring along a portable water bowl and fill it up regularly throughout your walk so that your pup has plenty of water available to them at all times.
Additionally, pack a few extra towels so you can wipe down their fur if they start overheating; this will help cool them down instantly by removing excess sweat from their small body.
What to Do if You See a Dog Being Walked in Extreme Heat
Stay Informed About Local Laws and Regulations
The first thing to do is make sure you’re aware of local laws and regulations regarding walking dogs when it is hot outside. Many cities have enacted ordinances prohibiting people from walking their dogs between certain hours or particularly hot days. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these laws to understand the severity of the situation better when you see a dog in extreme heat.
Be Proactive When Possible
If it is permissible by law, try to proactively approach the person who owns the dog and explain why they should not be walking them in extreme heat. This is especially true if they appear unaware of the danger posed by doing so – many people don’t realize how quickly temperatures can rise on a hot day! If possible, offer helpful advice about keeping their pup cool, such as taking breaks for water or finding alternative exercise methods, such as swimming or playing indoors.
Call For Help If Necessary
Finally, if all else fails and the situation appears dire – such as if there are signs of overheating – call for help from your local animal control or police department immediately. These professionals have experience dealing with similar situations and will know what steps to be taken next. Safety should always come first, so don’t hesitate to take action if necessary.
The Best Ways to Prevent Heat Stroke in Dogs
Monitor Your Dog’s Activity Levels
Dogs can easily overdo it when they’re having a good time, so keep an eye out for signs of fatigue and heat exhaustion. Dark-colored dogs absorb heat more quickly than their lighter-colored counterparts, so be cautious if your pup has a darker coat. If your dog is panting heavily or slowing down, take them inside and give them some water immediately.
Keep Plenty of Water On Hand
Dehydration is one of dogs’ leading causes of heat stroke, so ensure they stay hydrated while outside playing in the sun. Bring along a water bottle filled with cool water and offer it to them often throughout the day—some owners even purchase unique travel bowls designed for outdoor use! You should also bring along some treats or snacks for your pup; electrolytes found in treats like bananas and pumpkins can help replenish lost fluids during long days outdoors.
Choose Cooler Times Of Day To Exercise In The Sun
Avoid exercising your dog during peak sun hours (10 am – 2 pm). If possible, opt for cooler times, like early mornings or late evenings, when temperatures are lower, and there’s less direct sunlight. The proper temperature to walk a dog is 53.6°F. This will help reduce the risk of overheating and heat exhaustion while allowing plenty of outdoor playtimes.
Watch Out for Symptoms
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Therefore, you must recognize the signs of heat stroke in dogs so that you can act fast if necessary. Common symptoms include:
- Excessive panting.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Salivating or drooling excessively.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Dizziness or disorientation.
- Weakness or collapse.
- Increased heart rate.
If your pup displays any of these symptoms after exposure to extreme temperatures, move him into a cool environment and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Know When To Take Breaks
Be mindful when exercising your dog on hot days; take frequent breaks throughout your walk to ensure that neither one of you becomes overly tired from the heat. And never leave your pup unattended in a parked car—even if it’s just for a few minutes—as this could potentially lead to deadly consequences due to overheating (or worse).
Final Thoughts
Prevention is the best course of action when it comes to keeping your pup cool on hot summer days. Monitor their activity levels and provide plenty of fresh water throughout the day, choose cooler times to exercise in the sun, and watch out for any signs of heat exhaustion or stroke. With these tips and a little care, you can ensure that your pup stays safe and cool this summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
IS IT OK TO WALK DOGS IN HOT WEATHER?
The best way to keep your dog cool in the hot sun is by making sure they get some exercise. We recommend taking a walk early morning or late at night when it’s cooler so that you can reduce their risk of overheating and suffering from heatstroke.
IS 90 TOO HOT TO WALK DOGS?
On days with very high temperatures, the best idea is to modify your walk times so you can be early in the morning or late at night.
CAN I WALK MY DOG IN 92-DEGREE WEATHER?
Experts agree that it’s generally safe to go ahead with these excursions between 66-77 degrees Fahrenheit, but anything over 80° risks developing heat exhaustion or even death.
HOW LONG CAN A DOG WALK IN 90-DEGREE WEATHER?
On a day when the temperature is usually around 90 degrees, your dog only takes about 15 minutes to overheat and become ill. Make sure you keep an eye on how long they’re outside in this sort of heat – many people don’t realize until too late that their pet has been sweating all day without water.
