How Hot is Too Hot To Walk My Dog

As summer temperatures climb, many dog owners find themselves wondering: When is it too hot to take my dog for a walk? While we might enjoy the sunshine, the heat can pose serious risks to our four-legged companions—especially when it comes to scorching pavement, overheating, and even heatstroke.

Understanding how dogs experience heat differently from humans can help you protect your pup and enjoy safer summer strolls together.

Pavement May Be Hotter Than You Think

One of the most overlooked dangers in warm weather is hot pavement. While 75°F might feel pleasant to us, asphalt and concrete can absorb sunlight and climb to over 125°F—hot enough to burn a dog’s paws in less than a minute.

Try this test: place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. It’s a simple trick, but it could save your dog from painful burns or injuries.

🔗 Learn more from PetMD

Heatstroke in Dogs Is a Real Emergency

Unlike humans, dogs can’t sweat through their skin. They rely on panting to regulate their body temperature—and in hot weather, that just might not be enough.

Signs of heatstroke in dogs include:

• Rapid or heavy panting

• Bright red tongue or gums

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Lethargy, weakness, or collapse

If you suspect your dog is overheating, get them into the shade, offer water, and contact your veterinarian immediately. Acting quickly could save their life.

🔗 Read more from the ASPCA

When Should You Walk Your Dog in the Summer?

To avoid peak heat, the best time to walk your dog is early in the morning or later in the evening—before 8 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Look for shady paths, grassy trails, or short backyard sniff sessions instead of long midday walks.

Keeping your walk times short and choosing softer surfaces like grass will go a long way toward protecting your dog’s paws and preventing overheating.

Protecting Your Dog on Hot Days

If your pup still needs to burn off energy, try these hot-weather safety tips:

• Use protective booties to guard against hot pavement

• Keep water with you on walks

• Walk on grass or shaded paths whenever possible

• Limit time outdoors during extreme heat

• Play indoor games like treat hide-and-seek or food puzzles

🔗 Check out Rover's list of dog booties

Sometimes, Skipping the Walk Is Best

No walk is worth risking your dog’s health. On especially hot days, it’s better to skip the walk altogether and focus on indoor enrichment. Dogs benefit just as much from mental stimulation as they do from physical exercise—so try a puzzle feeder, scent game, or even training practice indoors with the A/C on.

Bottom Line

If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pup’s paws. Keep an eye on the forecast, stick to cooler hours, and don’t be afraid to skip the walk entirely when the heat is high.

Your dog will be happier, safer, and just as loved.