Dog Walking Safety
Is It Too Hot to Walk My Dog?
Hot weather can be dangerous for dogs. Learn how to check if conditions are safe, understand pavement burn risks, and know when to keep your pup indoors.
The Pavement Test: 7-Second Rule
One of the biggest hidden dangers of summer walks is hot pavement. Place the back of your hand on the asphalt and hold it there. If you can't keep it down for 7 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
Air Temperature vs. Pavement Temperature
Source: Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) & AKC guidelines
Factors That Increase Heat Risk
High Humidity
Dogs cool down by panting. When humidity exceeds 80%, panting becomes ineffective and the risk of heatstroke rises dramatically.
UV Index
A UV index of 6+ means intense sun exposure. Dogs with thin or light-colored coats are especially vulnerable to sunburn.
Breed Type
Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs like Pugs and Bulldogs) overheat much faster due to their restricted airways.
Age & Weight
Puppies, senior dogs, and overweight dogs are at higher risk. Their bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature.
Safe Walking Temperature Guide
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), here's a general guideline:
Tips for Walking Dogs in Hot Weather
- Walk early in the morning (before 9 AM) or in the evening (after 6 PM) when temperatures are cooler.
- Always carry water and a collapsible bowl for your dog.
- Stick to shaded paths, grass, or trails instead of asphalt and concrete.
- Watch for signs of overheating: excessive panting, drooling, or slowing down.
- Consider dog booties to protect paw pads from hot surfaces.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
Check Today's Walk Score
WalksBuddy calculates a real-time walk score based on temperature, humidity, UV, wind, and rain chance \u2014 so you always know if it's safe to walk your dog.
Get Your Free Walk ScoreFrequently Asked Questions
What temperature is too hot to walk a dog?
Most veterinarians recommend avoiding walks when the air temperature exceeds 30°C (86°F). At this point, pavement can reach 60°C (140°F) or higher, which can burn your dog’s paw pads in under 60 seconds.
Is 25°C (77°F) too hot for my dog?
25°C is generally safe for most breeds, but brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs) may struggle. Always check the pavement with the back of your hand — if you can’t hold it for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
How hot can pavement get in the sun?
When the air temperature is 30°C, asphalt can reach 57°C. At 35°C air temperature, pavement can exceed 65°C. Concrete is slightly cooler but still dangerous above 30°C.
What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?
Watch for excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, vomiting, diarrhea, stumbling, or collapse. Heatstroke is a medical emergency — move your dog to shade, offer cool (not ice-cold) water, and contact your vet immediately.
Can I walk my dog on grass when it’s hot?
Yes, grass stays significantly cooler than pavement. If you must walk in hot weather, stick to grassy areas, shaded paths, or trails. Always bring water and keep walks short.