How Hot Is Too Hot to Walk Your Dog?
Just because the air feels cooler doesn’t mean it’s safe for a walk. Even in late summer, pavement temperatures can soar, humidity can stick around, and dogs may still be at risk for heat stress. This article walks you through what to check, what to avoid, and what to do instead so your dog stays happy and safe even through hot weather.
What this article covers:
Late summer can still be risky
How to tell if it’s too hot
What to do instead
Is hiking off-limits?
Which dogs are at risk?
To walk or not to walk…
FAQs
Late summer can still be risky
As summer winds down, it’s easy to get back into old routines. The mornings feel breezier, the sun sets earlier, and it finally seems like a break from the heat. But for dogs—especially those close to the ground or covered in thick fur—conditions may not be as comfortable as they appear.
Pavement and asphalt retain heat well into the evening, often reaching dangerous temperatures even when the air feels mild. Humidity doesn’t help either and can make it harder for dogs to cool themselves through panting. Even a short walk can quickly become taxing, especially for sensitive breeds or dogs who won’t slow down until they’re already uncomfortable.
How to tell if it’s too hot
It’s not just the air temperature that matters—it’s also surface heat, sun exposure, and how well dogs can cool themselves down. Dogs don’t wear shoes and they don’t sweat the way people do. So even if it feels fine in sneakers, it could still be dangerous for them.
Use a few simple checks before your walk:
The seven-second test: Press the back of your hand to the pavement for a full seven seconds. If it’s too hot to hold, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Watch the humidity: When it rises above 60%, panting becomes much less effective. Even moderate activity can quickly lead to overheating.
Did You Know? Pavement can reach 135°F when the air is just 85°F, hot enough to burn paw pads.
What to do instead
On days when it’s just too hot for a safe outdoor stroll, your dog still needs enrichment and mental stimulation. Skipping a walk doesn’t mean skipping exercise altogether, it just means switching gears!
Indoor enrichment can go a long way. A frozen Kong or food puzzle can turn breakfast into a 20-minute challenge. Short training sessions—just five minutes of sit, stay, spin, or touch—can help use up mental energy. Hallway fetch or tug-of-war are easy and fun ways to stay engaged without heading outside. Scent games, like hiding treats around the room or scattering kibble in the grass, are also great alternatives for those pups that like a little challenge. And for water-loving dogs, a kiddie pool or supervised hose time can help them cool down without missing out on fun!
Which dogs are at risk?
While any dog can feel the effects of heat, some are more sensitive than others. Flat-faced breeds like Frenchies, Pugs, and Bulldogs tend to struggle most, especially on humid days. Puppies and seniors often have a harder time regulating their temperature, and dogs with thick coats or darker coloring can heat up more quickly than you'd expect. Even active, high-energy dogs run the risk of pushing themselves past their limits in hot weather.
Not every dog handles heat the same way either. Watch for heavier panting, frequent shade-seeking, or hesitation to keep moving.
Want a breakdown on signs of heatstroke and what to do if it happens? Check out: Heat Stroke Is No Joke: What to Watch Out for This Summer
Is hiking off-limits?
Late summer often feels like the perfect time to hit the trails, but even early morning hikes can come with risks. Rocky or open paths hold onto heat longer, and dense wooded areas can trap humidity, making it hard for dogs to cool down mid-route. To keep your dog safe and comfortable, plan your hike during the coolest parts of the day, and skip steep inclines when possible. Sticking to shaded trails, bringing fresh water and a collapsible bowl, and taking breaks are all great precautions to take.
For a full prep list and gear guide, check out: Trail Tails: A Guide to Hiking With Your Dog
To walk or not to walk…
There’s a lot of pressure to take your dog out every day, but that daily walk isn’t the only way to meet their needs. When the pavement’s scorching or the air feels heavy, skipping the usual loop around the block might actually be the safer choice. But there are still great ways to keep them happy, active, and mentally engaged—without stepping into the heat.
When temperatures are warm but not extreme, early morning or evening outings are your best bet. Choose grassy or shaded routes and keep things short and relaxed. A few simple add-ons can also make outdoor time a little more manageable:
Paw protection, like Musher’s Secret or booties
These don’t make hot weather risk-free, but they can help stretch the window of what's doable. Always watch for any signs of fatigue or discomfort, and cut it short if needed.
FAQs
What temperature is too hot to walk a dog?
Generally, anything above 85°F is too hot for most dogs, especially on pavement. Always check the ground temperature and humidity too.Can I walk after sunset when it’s cooler?
Sometimes. Pavement and asphalt can stay hot well into the evening. Use the 7-second test to be sure.Why is humidity such a big deal?
Humidity reduces the effectiveness of panting, making it harder for dogs to cool off—even if they’re not running around.How can I tell if my dog is starting to overheat?
Watch for excessive panting, slowing down, reluctance to move, red gums, or lying down mid-walk.Is it really okay to skip a walk?
Yes! As long as you’re offering enrichment and engagement in other ways, skipping a walk now and then is totally fine.
Final thoughts
Late summer weather can be misleading. While it may feel like the worst of the heat has passed, high surface temps, lingering humidity, and midday sun can still pose serious risks. The good news? With small changes, like shifting your routine, planning indoor games, or staying flexible about walks, you can keep your dog safe and content.
