It's a beautiful sunny day. You lace up your trainers, clip on the lead, and head out the door with your dog bounding beside you. It feels like the perfect summer moment — but if the temperature is soaring, that walk could be doing your dog more harm than good.
Every summer, vets across the UK treat dogs for heatstroke and burned paw pads — injuries that are almost entirely preventable. And yet, it keeps happening. Why? Because dogs don't complain. They'll follow you anywhere, even when their body is screaming at them to stop.
Dogs Can't Cool Down Like We Can
Here's the common sense bit that's easy to forget: humans sweat. We have sweat glands all over our bodies, which is an incredibly efficient way to regulate temperature. Dogs don't have that luxury. They cool down primarily by panting — and on a hot, humid day, panting simply can't keep up with the heat their body is generating from exercise.
Add hot pavement into the mix, and you've got a recipe for disaster. Tarmac and paving stones can reach temperatures of 60°C or more on a warm day — hot enough to fry an egg, and hot enough to burn your dog's paw pads within minutes.
The 5-Second Rule
Not sure if the ground is too hot? Try this simple test: place the back of your hand flat on the pavement and hold it there for five seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. No debate needed.
Signs Your Dog Is Overheating
Dogs are stoic creatures. They won't stop and tell you they're struggling — they'll keep going until their body gives out. Watch for these warning signs:
- Excessive, heavy panting
- Drooling more than usual
- Bright red or pale gums
- Lethargy or stumbling
- Vomiting or collapsing
If you notice any of these, move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately, offer small amounts of cool (not ice cold) water, and contact your vet.
When Should You Walk Your Dog in Summer?
The golden rule: walk before 8am or after 8pm during hot weather. The ground has had time to cool, the air temperature is lower, and your dog can enjoy their walk without the risk of overheating.
On particularly hot days — anything above 25°C — consider skipping the walk altogether and keeping exercise to shaded garden time or indoor enrichment instead.
What to Do Instead of a Walk
A walk isn't the only way to keep your dog stimulated and happy. On hot days, try:
- Paddling pools — a shallow garden paddling pool can keep dogs cool and entertained for hours
- Frozen treats — freeze dog-safe ingredients like natural yoghurt, blueberries, or our natural treats in an ice cube tray for a cooling snack
- Sniff games indoors — hide treats around the house for a mental workout that tires them out without the heat risk
- Lick mats — spread with natural peanut butter or wet food and pop in the freezer for a long-lasting cool distraction
The Bottom Line
Your dog trusts you completely. They'll follow you on that midday walk without hesitation — which is exactly why the responsibility falls on us to make the right call for them. When in doubt, stay in. The walk can wait. Your dog's health can't.
At Marley N Co., we believe caring for your dog means understanding their needs in every season. Browse our range of natural treats and enrichment products to keep your pup happy, healthy, and cool this summer.