Why hot weather walks need extra care

Dogs are more vulnerable to heat than humans. They rely mainly on panting to cool down, which becomes less effective in hot or humid conditions. Combined with hot surfaces and physical exertion, even short walks can place stress on a dog’s body.

In Australia, temperatures can rise quickly throughout the day, making it important to plan walks carefully rather than relying on how warm it feels to us.

The risks of walking dogs in hot conditions

Hot weather increases the risk of heat stress and burns, particularly to a dog’s paws. Surfaces like concrete, asphalt, and sand can heat up rapidly and remain hot long after the air temperature rises.

Potential risks include:

• Overheating or heat exhaustion
  
• Burned or irritated paw pads
  
• Dehydration
  
• Fatigue or collapse
  

Some dogs are at higher risk, including senior dogs, puppies, flat-faced breeds, overweight dogs, and dogs with existing health conditions.

Choosing the safest time of day

Timing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce heat risk.

Safer walking times are:

• Early morning, before temperatures rise
  
• Later in the evening, once surfaces have cooled
  

If it feels too hot for you to walk comfortably, it’s likely too hot for your dog as well.

Checking ground temperature before walks

A simple way to test surface safety is to place the back of your hand on the ground for several seconds. If it feels uncomfortably hot, it can burn your dog’s paws.

When surfaces are too warm:

• Choose shaded routes
  
• Walk on grass where possible
  
• Consider shorter walks or indoor activity instead
  

Protecting paws is an important part of hot weather care.

Signs your dog may be struggling on a walk

Dogs may not stop on their own when they’re uncomfortable, especially if they’re excited or focused.

Watch for signs such as:

• Excessive panting
  
• Slowing down or stopping
  
• Seeking shade or lying down
  
• Drooling more than usual
  
• Appearing disoriented or unsteady
  

If you notice these signs, stop the walk immediately and move your dog to a cool area.

Making hot weather walks safer

Small adjustments can make walks safer during warmer months.

Helpful tips include:

• Carrying water for your dog
  
• Keeping walks shorter and slower
  
• Avoiding midday heat
  
• Allowing frequent rest breaks
  
• Choosing shaded or cooler routes
  

On particularly hot days, skipping walks and opting for indoor enrichment or gentle play may be the safer choice.

When to seek veterinary advice

If your dog shows signs of overheating that don’t improve quickly, or collapses, vomits, or becomes confused, veterinary attention is essential.

Heat-related illness can progress rapidly, and early treatment greatly improves outcomes.

A thoughtful approach to warm weather exercise

Walking remains an important part of a dog’s routine, but safety should always come first. By adjusting timing, pace, and expectations during hot weather, you can continue to support your dog’s physical and emotional wellbeing without unnecessary risk.