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By: Andrew Forrest - August 2025
How do you know when it's too hot to head outside, and what should you do instead? We'll explore when it's too hot to walk your dog, what the experts advise, and how to keep your furry friend happy and safe in hot weather.
Summer is a wonderful time to get outside, but when it comes to our dogs, we must be cautious. Dogs don't handle heat as well as humans. They mainly cool off by panting and can only sweat through their paw pads, which means they can struggle in high temperatures. On scorching days, even a well-loved walk can put your dog at risk.
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The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance and educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your dog exhibits signs of distress, illness, or a medical emergency, seek immediate assistance from a qualified veterinarian or contact your local emergency veterinary service.
Always consult your vet if you have any concerns about your dog's health, fitness, or suitability for exercise in warm weather - especially if they are a puppy, senior, flat-faced breed, or have any pre-existing medical conditions. Every dog is different, and professional advice should be tailored to your pet's specific needs.
There is no single temperature that acts as a definitive cutoff, as much depends on your individual dog and the specific conditions. However, animal welfare experts provide some helpful guidelines. The Blue Cross generally recommends that once the temperature exceeds about 20°C, you should begin to limit exercise and exercise caution.
By the mid-20s Celsius, most dogs will struggle, especially flat-faced breeds (brachycephalic dogs like pugs or bulldogs), older dogs, puppies,
and dogs with thick coats or health issues. In those conditions, it may be best to skip the walk entirely.
One simple test you can try is the pavement test: touch the ground with the back of your hand for five seconds. If it's too hot for you to keep your hand there, it's too hot for your dog's paws. The RSPCA recommends that dog owners use this rule of thumb - hot pavements can burn paw pads and also radiates heat upwards, quickly overheating your pet.
Also, think about the overall weather: humidity can make it harder for dogs to cool down, and direct sun will feel hotter than shade. A 23°C day with bright sunlight might be riskier than a 25°C overcast day, especially on tarmac.
The temperature seems to keep rising each summer, even in the UK. As I sit here writing, even in the North-West of England, where we often experience bad weather and rain, the temperature outside is set to reach 29°C today, with 34°C forecast for the South-East.
Time of day matters a lot. The PDSA vets recommend avoiding the hottest part of the day altogether. Early morning or late evening (think dawn or dusk) are the safest times for a summer dog walk. First thing in the morning, the air and ground are coolest. In the evening, be mindful that residual heat and humidity can still be high, so check that it's comfortably cooler before you go out. A gentle 7 a.m. stroll or a post-sunset walk can provide your dog with exercise without the extreme heat.
Always listen to your dog and use common sense. If your pet is pulling back towards home, seeking shade, or panting heavily even before the
walk starts, take the hint and stay in. The RSPCA emphasises that no dog has ever died from missing one walk, but heatstroke can be fatal. It's
okay to skip a walk on a very hot day. Your dog will be much happier lounging in a cool room than overheating outside. As the saying goes,
if in doubt, don't go out.
Dogs can overheat very quickly, and the consequences can be deadly. Heatstroke in dogs is a serious emergency that occurs when a dog's body temperature rises to dangerously high levels. This can happen on a walk if a dog gets too hot and can't cool down. Exercise on hot days is one of the leading triggers of heatstroke in otherwise healthy dogs. That's why animal charities and vets issue so many warnings during heatwaves.
This also applies to leaving your dogs in cars, motorhomes, or caravans. Even on warm days, they trap in the heat, and the temperature inside
can rise very quickly to levels that are dangerous for dogs. So, never leave them shut up inside vehicles on warm days, even for just short
periods of time.
It's important to recognise the early signs of overheating in your dog. Look out for symptoms such as:
If you notice any of these signs while out on a walk, stop immediately. PDSA veterinarians warn that heatstroke can escalate rapidly, so
it's essential to act quickly. Get your dog into shade or a cooler area right away. Offer them a small amount of water to drink and start
cooling them down.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke or heat exhaustion, it's crucial to cool them down before rushing to the vet.
The RSPCA advises a 'cool first, transport second' approach. In practical terms, this means:
Remember, prompt cooling can save your dog's life. Don't delay cooling to wait for a vet - begin first aid at home or wherever you are.
And never hesitate to seek professional help once you've started the cooling process. Blue Cross pet experts stress that every minute counts in
a heatstroke scenario.
On days when it's warm but not so extreme that a walk is off the table, you'll still want to take precautions. Here are some hot-weather walking tips that veterinarians and charities like PDSA and RSPCA recommend:
Early morning or late evening walks are essential in summer. For instance, a stroll before breakfast or after sunset is much safer than midday. Avoid the hours when the sun is at its highest and the temperature peaks (usually 10 am to 4 pm, or even longer on very hot days).
Choose a route with plenty of shade, whether it's tree-lined streets or a wooded path. If possible, walk on grass or earth rather than asphalt. Pavements and sand can get very hot under the sun.
If you must walk on roads, try to stay on the shaded side. The PDSA recommends choosing natural paths (like in a park or woods) during
summer, as open fields or tarmac in direct sun can heat your dog quickly.
There's no harm in cutting your walk short when it's warm. In fact, it's sensible. A quick 10-minute outing to the toilet and a sniff around the block is far better than a lengthy hike on a hot day. Your dog won't mind a shorter outing if it keeps them comfortable. Avoid strenuous activities like running, cycling, or fetch games in the heat. PDSA veterinarians note that dogs should be encouraged to take it easy. Let them amble and sniff rather than sprint. Save the big adventures for cooler days.
Always carry a bottle of fresh water and a portable dog bowl on summer walks. Offer your dog water regularly, even if they don't appear to be thirsty. Walking in the heat is thirsty work, and staying hydrated helps them regulate their body temperature.
If you find a nice shady spot, take a break together and give your dog a drink. Never leave home without water for your dog on a warm day.
As mentioned, perform the five-second hand test on the pavement. If the ground is very hot, choose grass or postpone the walk. Also, monitor your dog's paws during and after the walk. Signs of burned pads include limping, licking the paws, redness or darkening of the pad skin, or even blisters. If you notice any discomfort, remove your dog from the hot ground immediately. You might also consider dog boots for paw protection, but on the hottest days, avoiding hot surfaces is the best option.
Several products are available to help keep your dog cool during the summer, including cooling mats, cooling vests or coats, cooling bandanas, and dog-friendly paddling pools. If you use any of these, always follow the manufacturer's guidance and instructions. For example, if a cooling vest is allowed to dry out, it could actually make your dog hotter, so ensure you use them as intended.
Always introduce cooling products gradually to ensure your dog is comfortable using them. Never leave your pet unattended with any new product, as it may be chewed or ingested (for example, check that they don't chew a cooling mat or vest).
Perhaps the most important tip: don't be afraid to cancel a walk. As loving dog owners, we hate to deny our dogs their playtime. But on an exceptionally hot day, skipping the walk really is the kindest thing you can do.
The RSPCA reminds us that missing one walk won't harm your dog's happiness or health, but pushing them in extreme heat can be very dangerous. If your gut tells you it's too warm, trust that instinct. Your dog trusts you to make that call for them.
So, what can you do instead of the usual walk when it's scorching hot? The good news is that there are plenty of fun, safe alternatives that will keep your dog entertained and exercised without exposing them to the heat.
Animal charities such as the RSPCA, PDSA, and Blue Cross all recommend focusing on mental stimulation and indoor play when hot weather limits outdoor time. Here are some suggestions:
By mixing and matching these activities, you can get through the hottest days with a happy, tired dog without risking a heatstroke incident.
You might even discover a new game your dog loves!
When the temperature rises, walking your dog requires extra thought and care. We all enjoy our regular walks, and it's hard to say no when your dog gives you those pleading eyes at the door. But as a responsible owner, you must decide when it's simply too hot.
Trust the advice of organisations like the RSPCA, PDSA, and Blue Cross: they all prioritise your dog's welfare and agree that safety comes first. Plan your walks during cooler times or in safe places, and don't hesitate to skip the outing if necessary. Your dog won't hold it against you!
Hot weather doesn't last forever, especially here in the UK. There will be plenty of cooler days for grand doggy walks. Until then, take it easy, keep your dog cool and hydrated, and try some fun alternatives at home. Being a caring dog owner means adapting to the weather and your pet's needs. Stay cool and enjoy a happy summer with your four-legged friend - even if it means fewer walks and a bit more indoor play.
Your dog's health and happiness are well worth it!
RSPCA
PDSA
Blue Cross
Kennel Club
August 2025
