18/06/2025
🔥 When Is It Too Hot to Walk Your Dog? 🐶☀️
There’s no simple answer — dogs can overheat even on cooler days. Dogs Trust have created a Summer Guide www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/seasonal/hot-weather which includes these top tips to keep your pooch safe in this hot weather
✅ Before the Walk
🚧 Do the 5-Second Tarmac Test
Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds.
Too hot for your hand? It’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
🌅 Walk During Cooler Hours
Stick to early morning or late evening strolls.
Be extra cautious with older dogs, flat-faced breeds (like Pugs & French Bulldogs), or dogs with breathing or weight issues.
❓ Won’t My Dog Know When They’ve Had Enough?
Not always. Many dogs don’t self-regulate and will keep playing even when dangerously overheated.
In fact, exercise is the biggest trigger:
📊 74% of heat-related illness cases in UK dogs were due to exertion
🚶♂️ 67.5% happened just from walking
Even moderate activity can cause dogs to overheat — so it's vital that we know the signs and act quickly.
⚠️ Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Look for:
🫁 Heavy or ongoing panting (even after stopping exercise)
😓 “Smiling” look from panting hard
👅 Tongue hanging out more than usual
👀 Squinty eyes
💨 Breathing difficulty
🩷 Bright red or pink gums and lips
💤 Lethargy, stiffness, or reluctance to move
🌳 Shade seeking
🚶♂️ Wobbly or uncoordinated movements
💦 Excessive drooling
🤢 Vomiting or diarrhoea
❗ Collapse or seizures
Most common signs: excessive panting and drowsiness.
🆘 What to Do If Your Dog Gets Too Hot
Cool first, transport second:
Stop activity immediately
Move to a shaded, cool area
Offer water
Cool them down:
🐕 Young, healthy dogs:
Immerse in cool water (e.g. paddling pool) or pour water over them
🐶 Older/unwell dogs:
Spray with room-temp water, avoid face
Use fan/breeze
Apply wrapped ice packs to groin/armpits
🚫 Don’t use wet towels – they trap heat
Call your vet immediately and head there with AC or windows open
💛 Stay safe this summer: walk smart, watch closely, and know the signs.
Keep your dog happy and healthy in warm weather with our advice for safe fun in the sun.