Related reading: winter dog-walking safety and how much exercise your dog needs.
Short answer: Walk in the cool of the early morning or evening. From around 20°C take care, and 24°C and above can be dangerous — especially for flat-faced, very young, older or overweight dogs. If the pavement is too hot for the back of your hand for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
Dogs can’t cool down the way we do — they mainly pant, which isn’t very efficient in the heat. Every summer vets see avoidable cases of heatstroke, so a few simple rules keep walks safe and fun.
The 5-second pavement test
Press the back of your hand to the pavement for five seconds. If you can’t hold it there comfortably, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws — tarmac and flagstones can scald. Choose grass and shade instead.
Walk early or late
The coolest, safest times are early morning and later evening. We shift our group walk times in hot spells and head for shaded, grassy routes like Kenworthy Woods — see our best dog walks in Wythenshawe for the cooler options.
Which dogs are most at risk?
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds — pugs, French bulldogs, boxers, shih tzus — plus puppies, senior dogs, overweight dogs and thick-coated breeds. These dogs may need a shorter solo walk or just a garden potter on the hottest days.
Keep them cool
- Always carry water and a travel bowl.
- Stick to shade and grass; avoid open tarmac at midday.
- Never, ever leave a dog in a car — not even for a minute.
- Know the signs of heatstroke: heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, collapse — cool the dog and call your vet immediately.
As canine first-aid trained walkers, your dog’s safety in the heat is always our first call. Away in summer? Our pet sitting keeps your dog cool and cared-for at home.
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