Sun on your face, a cooling breeze, and out and about with your dog; summer is a wonderful season for getting outdoors. However, warm days also bring risks. Dogs are less able to dissipate heat than humans and can overheat more quickly.
With these 10 tips, you can enjoy summer walks safely.
1. Walk during the coolest parts of the day
Preferably go for walks early in the morning and later in the evening. Between approximately 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM, the sun is strongest, and temperatures can rise quickly. An early walk is not only safer but often also much quieter and more pleasant for both of you.
2. Check the asphalt
Asphalt, tiles, and sand can become incredibly hot in the sun. What feels warm to your feet can be painful or even dangerous for your dog's sensitive paw pads.
A handy rule of thumb: place the back of your hand on the asphalt for five seconds. Is it uncomfortable? Then it's too hot for your dog.
Choose grass, forest paths, or shady walking routes instead.
3. Always bring plenty of water
Make sure you have fresh drinking water with you on the go. A water break is especially important during longer walks or outings.
A collapsible water bowl or water bottle for dogs takes up little space and makes it easy to cool down on the go.
4. Adjust the length of the walk
Even active dogs have less energy on hot days. Choose a shorter walk than usual and avoid intensive activities like running or long play sessions.
Your dog will not like you any less for it.
5. Seek out the shade
Walk as much as possible through forests, parks, or avenues with many trees. The temperature there often remains a few degrees lower than on open roads or pavements.
Moreover, it's much more pleasant for both of you.
6. Watch for signs of overheating
A dog that is getting too hot may, among other things:
- pant excessively;
- become lethargic;
- drool a lot;
- have difficulty walking;
- vomit or collapse.
Do you notice one or more of these signs? Immediately seek a cool place, offer water, and contact a veterinarian if symptoms are severe.
7. Never leave your dog in the car
Not even "just for a moment".
Even with a window slightly open, the temperature inside a parked car can rise dangerously high within minutes. This can be life-threatening.
8. Use a cooling bandana
On hot days, you want your dog to be able to cool down nicely. A cooling bandana for your dog provides cooling and looks super cool too 😎
How to use a cooling bandana:
- Wet the bandana with cold water
- Squeeze the bandana well so it no longer drips
- Bonus tip: place the bandana in the refrigerator for 10 minutes
- Tie the bandana around your dog's neck or attach it to their collar
The bandana provides immediate cooling and stays cold for a long time. On hot days, you can repeat the process above regularly.
9. Consider the breed
Not every dog handles heat equally well.
Dogs with short snouts, such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, and English Bulldogs, have more difficulty cooling down. Older dogs, puppies, and overweight dogs are also more sensitive to high temperatures.
Therefore, adjust the walk to your dog.
10. Put a lick mat in the freezer for after the walk
In a short amount of time, you can create a cooling and safe snack + activity for your dog by spreading their favorite snack on a lick mat and placing it in the freezer for half an hour.
A few simple and quick tips:
- Yogurt (without added sugars or other sweeteners)
- Peanut butter (100% peanut butter, no additives)
- Butternut Box
- Wet food
- Bone broth (especially for dogs)
Prepare the lick mat with your dog's favorite ingredients, put it in the freezer before your walk, and give your dog a delicious cooling lick mat immediately after the walk 🤤
Most importantly, enjoy it together
The most beautiful summer walks don't have to be long. A relaxed stroll through the park, a walk along the water, or simply sitting together in the shade can be enough.
Listen carefully to your dog and adjust your plans if it's very hot. This way, you both stay safe and enjoy the summer to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot is too hot to walk a dog?
From approximately 20 °C, it's wise to be extra alert. This may seem exaggerated, but do not underestimate what this temperature can do to your dog. Above 25 °C, you should shorten (longer) walks and plan them for early morning and/or late evening. At temperatures above 30 °C, it's often better to only take short potty breaks and carry your dog (if possible) to the grass.
How do I know if the asphalt is too hot?
Place the back of your hand on the asphalt for five seconds. Can you not comfortably hold it there? Then the surface is too hot for your dog's paw pads.
Can my dog swim to cool down?
Yes, provided the water is clean and safe. Watch out for blue-green algae, strong currents, and make sure your dog can dry off properly after swimming.
Safely through the summer
With a few simple adjustments, you can also enjoy being out and about together on warm days. Choose the coolest times of the day, bring plenty of water, and listen carefully to your dog's signals.
This way, every summer walk becomes a relaxed moment that you both enjoy.
