How Hot is Too Hot for Your Dog?

How Your Dog Can Keep It Cool This Summer

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your dog, but rising temperatures can quickly become dangerous. Dogs don't cool themselves as efficiently as people do, putting them at risk for heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heatstroke. There isn't one temperature that's dangerous for every dog. Humidity, direct sunlight, exercise, age, coat, size, and breed all make a difference. As temperatures climb into the 80s, use extra caution with outdoor activities. Dogs that are puppies, seniors, overweight, or flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs and Pugs may be particularly vulnerable to overheating. Don’t forget about humidity either! Hot, humid weather can be especially risky. Dogs primarily cool themselves through panting, and high humidity makes that process less effective. A warm, humid day can therefore be more dangerous than a hotter, dry day.

Also keep in mind that pavement can become much hotter than the air temperature. Asphalt and other surfaces can heat up quickly in direct sunlight and may burn your dog's paws.

Summer Safety Tips for Dogs

Walk During Cooler Hours

Schedule walks for early morning or evening when temperatures and pavement are cooler. On extremely hot days, skip strenuous outdoor exercise and provide indoor enrichment instead.

Check the Pavement

Try the 10-second hand test. Place the back of your hand against the pavement for about 10 seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Whenever possible, choose grass, shade, or other cooler surfaces.

Provide Plenty of Water

Keep fresh, clean water available throughout the day. Bring water and a portable bowl whenever you take your dog on an outing.

Offer Shade and a Cool Space

If your dog spends time outside, make sure there is reliable access to shade and water. During extreme heat, keeping your dog indoors in a cool environment is the safest choice.

Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Never leave a dog unattended in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are cracked. Temperatures inside a car can rise dangerously fast.

Know the Signs of Overheating

Watch for:

• Excessive or uncontrolled panting

• Heavy drooling

• Red gums

• Restlessness or weakness

• Vomiting

• Confusion or disorientation

• Difficulty breathing

• Collapse or loss of consciousness

Heatstroke can become life-threatening very quickly.

What to Do If Your Dog Gets Too Hot

Move your dog to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned area immediately. Begin cooling with cool water and contact your veterinarian promptly.

If your dog is confused, collapses, has seizures, or is having difficulty breathing, treat the situation as an emergency and seek veterinary care immediately.

You don't need to wait for a specific temperature before taking heat seriously. Consider the temperature, humidity, sun exposure, pavement, activity level, and your dog's individual risk factors. On very hot days, replace long walks with indoor activities such as training games, puzzle toys, or food-stuffed toys. At Kaitlyn’s Kuddles, our walkers know that the best summer adventure is one that ends with a cool, comfortable, happy dog. We keep your pet’s safety and comfort in mind, and cater our visits to the unique needs of every pet!