When is it too hot to walk my dog? Temperatures and health risks explained

Scottish Sun

30-04-2025

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AS THE weather heats up, it becomes even more important to watch out for your pet's health.
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Dogs are even more sensitive to the heat than humans which means that a warm day might be too hot for a walk.
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Dogs need access to water during periods of hot weather to avoid heat stroke
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Flat-nosed dogs are particularly at risk of heat stroke
Heat stroke can be a killer for dogs
Vets suggest that temperatures as warm as 28C are too hot to walk dogs, as they may be at risk of heat stroke.
Even temperatures as low as 20C can be dangerous for dogs, as they cannot sweat through their skin like humans.
When the weather is above 20C, or even 17C, it is best to leave your dog at home with some ice cold water.
Heat stroke can kill a dog within 15 minutes, with dogs who are overweight or have pre-existing conditions being most at risk.
The condition is caused by the body's failure to regulate its own temperature, causing confusion and difficulty breathing which can quickly become fatal.
Signs that your dog has heat stroke include heavy panting, excessive drooling, bright red or pale gums and a rapid heart rate.
Other symptoms include diarrhea, weakness and even seizures.
Some dogs are at an increased risk
Certain dog breeds are at an increased risk during the warmer months.
Flat-faced breeds, including bulldogs and pugs, are particularly at risk due to their inherent breathing problems.
This makes it difficult for them to regulate their temperature, as dogs often use panting to cool down.
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Very young and elderly dogs are also at an increased risk, as they struggle to regulate their body temperatures, as do dogs on medication.
Finally, dogs with thick coats, including huskies, chow chows and pomeranians, naturally hold on to heat which can make it difficult for them to cool down.
However, you should never shave a dog's fur as this can lead to them getting sunburn which can be fatal for dogs.
Keeping tabs on your dog's health
Emergency vet Dave Leicester revealed that there are certain times of day which are better for walking dogs during periods of hot weather.
He said: 'Every summer, we're inundated with calls about dogs suffering heat stroke during hot spells.
'Heavy panting and breathing difficulties are among the main early signs of heat stroke, which is life-threatening if left untreated.
'While dogs need regular exercise, their health and welfare is our greatest concern and during hot spells such as the one coming in the coming days, we would urge owners to walk their dogs in the early morning or late evening to avoid temperature extremes.'
Taking water with you and a collapsable bowl is another way to be prepared when taking your dog for a walk.
In recent years, the UK has enjoyed summers which are much hotter than usual.
2024 was the world's hottest year on record, which led to devastating wildfires in California, Brazil and Portugal.
This means it will become increasingly important to keep tabs on your dog's wellbeing, as longer, hotter summers present a threat to their health.
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Dogs need to be in the shade when the weather heats up
Scorching pavements
Even the pavement surface can present a problem when walking a dog in the Spring and the Summer.
However, there is a simple test to see if the pavement is too hot for dogs.
If you are unable to hold your hand on the ground for seven seconds, due to the heat, then the surface is too hot for your dog.
Dogs have extremely sensitive paws which means they can burn easily on the ground.