Quick Answers
Too hot to walk a dog depends on the breed, health, age, and coat of the dog, as well as the temperature, humidity, pavement heat, and time of day. As a general rule, it’s best to avoid walking dogs when temperatures exceed 85°F. Short walks in the early morning or late evening may be okay in warmer weather if the pavement is cool. Monitoring your dog closely for signs of overheating is critical.
What Temperature is Too Hot to Walk a Dog?
There is no one-size-fits-all temperature that is too hot for all dogs. Factors like humidity, pavement temperature, time of day, breeze, and shade availability all impact how hot it really feels outside. Here are some general guidelines on when it may be too hot to walk your dog:
– Over 85°F – Most dogs will begin to feel uncomfortable and overheated at this temperature when humidity is also high. Limit walks to early morning or evening when it’s cooler.
– Over 90°F – Very high risk for heat stroke and thermal injury to paw pads. Avoid extended walks.
– Over 100°F – Extremely dangerous for almost all dogs. Do not walk your dog in this heat without taking precautions.
– Over 115°F – Deadly heat. Do not take your dog outside regardless of precautions.
However, some dogs may struggle even when temps are in the 80s while others can tolerate temps above 100°F if humidity is low. Know your dog’s limits.
Factors That Increase Heat Risk
Several factors can make the real feel temperature even hotter and dangerous for dogs:
Humidity – Humidity prevents evaporative cooling through panting and makes it feel much hotter. Avoid walking when humidity is over 40%.
Pavement Temperature – Concrete, asphalt, and sand can be 20-30 degrees hotter than the air temperature. This can burn paws. Opt for grass or dirt trails.
Coat and Breed – Thick, dark coats trap heat. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs struggle more. Double coated breeds like huskies thrive in colder temps.
Age – Senior dogs and puppies have a harder time regulating body temperature. Take extra precautions.
Time of Day – Avoid the afternoon when temperatures peak. The risk of overheating is much higher.
Lack of Wind/Shade – Direct sun and still, stagnant air makes it hotter. Seek shaded routes or times with a breeze.
Signs of Heatstroke and Overheating
It’s critical to monitor your dog closely on hot weather walks and watch for signs of overheating or heat stroke including:
– Heavy panting or difficulty breathing
– Bright red gums and tongue
– Thick, ropey saliva
– Vomiting
– Diarrhea
– Wobbliness, disorientation, or collapsing
– Seizures
If your dog shows signs of overheating, stop walking immediately. Move to a cool area and begin taking steps to lower their body temperature gradually. Heatstroke can progress rapidly, leading to organ failure, coma, and death. Veterinary assistance is urgently needed.
Tips for Walking Dogs in Hot Weather
While walking dogs in hot temperatures requires extra caution, you can take steps to keep your dog safe and healthy:
Walk early or late – Avoid peak heat between 11am-4pm. Opt for early morning or after the sun sets when temperatures have dropped.
Stay hydrated – Provide ample water before, during, and after walks. Carry water on routes with no fountains.
Walk on grass or dirt – Pavement gets dangerously hot. Choose shaded nature trails when possible.
Go short distances – Take brief walks close to home. Don’t stray too far in case you need to turn back.
Watch paw pads – Check for signs of burning on your walk. Consider booties.
Bring cooling gear – Freeze a damp towel for your dog to lay on when resting. Carry cooling bandanas.
Know when to quit – If your dog is struggling, end the walk. Don’t push them to go too far.
The Risk of Hot Cars
Never leave your dog alone in a vehicle on a hot day. On an 85°F day, the internal car temperature can soar to 120°F in just 30 minutes. Even with windows cracked, the inside of a car heats up rapidly to deadly temperatures. Dogs die in hot cars every year. Simply put – don’t take the chance.
Conclusion
Extreme heat is dangerous and potentially fatal to dogs. Carefully monitor temperatures and your dog on summer walks. When in doubt, stick to cooler indoor activities. Prevention is key when it comes to overheating. Know your dog’s limits and be prepared to cut walks short on scorching days. With proper precautions, you can still enjoy the outdoors with your dog even on hot days – just take it slow and be safe.