Walking the dog in summer takes a bit of planning. When the thermometer climbs, a badly timed outing can go from a pleasant walk to a serious health problem. Knowing what time to walk the dog in summer, how to check the hot tarmac before you head out and how to keep them hydrated makes the difference between a happy summer and a scare at the vet's. In this guide we go through, point by point, how to look after your best friend during the hottest months.
What time to walk the dog in summer
The time of day is everything. The middle hours, between 12:00 and 19:00, carry the most intense solar radiation, and the tarmac stores heat that takes hours to disperse. That is why the advice is clear: move your walks earlier and later.
- First thing in the morning: ideally head out before 9:00, while the ground is still cool and the air is easier to breathe.
- At night: after 21:00 or 22:00, once the sun has set and surfaces have started to cool.
- Midday: save these hours for the shortest possible outings, just to relieve themselves, and always through shaded areas.
Adapting the timing matters especially for older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs or flat-faced breeds (bulldog, pug, boxer), which regulate their temperature far less effectively.
Hot tarmac and dogs' paw pads
Hot tarmac is one of the most underestimated dangers of summer. A sunny day at 30 degrees can leave the pavement above 50 degrees, enough to burn paw pads within seconds. Remember that your dog walks barefoot where you walk in shoes.
There is a very simple and reliable test, the 5-second rule: rest the back of your hand on the tarmac for five seconds. If you cannot bear the heat, your dog should not be walking on it either. In that case, look for grass, soil or shade, or put the walk off.
Signs the pads are damaged: limping, insistent licking of the paws, reddened areas or lifted skin. If you spot them, rinse the area with cool water and see the vet if it does not improve.
How to keep your dog hydrated in summer
Keeping your dog hydrated in summer is not optional. Always carry water on long walks and offer it regularly, especially if your dog is panting hard. A collapsible travel bowl weighs almost nothing and fits in any pocket or bum bag.
- Make sure there is fresh, clean water at home 24 hours a day, in several spots if it is very hot.
- At home you can offer ice cubes or frozen snacks as an occasional cool-down.
- Watch for excessive panting, very red or dry gums and apathy: those are signs they need to drink and rest in the shade.
If you are after accessories to make summer walks easier, take a look at the Velia Select range of pet products, from travel bowls to cooling mats.
Signs of heatstroke during the walk
Extreme heat can lead to heatstroke, which is a veterinary emergency. During the walk, pay attention to these symptoms:
- Very heavy panting and rapid breathing that does not settle.
- Thick drool, staggering or disorientation.
- Deep red or bluish gums.
- Weakness, vomiting or refusing to keep walking.
At any of these signs, get your dog into the shade, cool them with lukewarm water (never ice cold) on paws, groin and neck, offer water and get to the vet as soon as possible. Speed is everything.
Quick tips for safe walks
- Adjust the length: short, frequent walks beat one long one in the sun.
- Seek out shade: parks with trees, soil paths and cool routes.
- Never leave them in the car: the inside turns into an oven within minutes, even with the windows cracked open.
- Go easy on exercise: save running and intense play for the cooler hours.
- Light-coated dogs: they can get sunburnt on ears and muzzle; ask your vet about suitable protection.
Enjoying summer with your dog
With a little planning, summer can be a great time of year for your dog. Choosing the right hours, always checking the tarmac before heading out and carrying water solves most of the risks. Watch your pet, respect their pace and do not push the walks when the heat bites. If you want to get ready for the season, at Velia Select you will find accessories designed to make these months more comfortable for both of you. A safe walk is a happy walk.