What temperature is too hot for dogs to walk? Here’s what you need to know. The best part of summer has got to be spending time outdoors with your pet.
However, too much heat can prove harmful to your furry companion. People are unable to handle extreme heat, but it is much worse for dogs. They may overheat and suffer serious health complications.
However, dogs can’t stay in air-conditioned rooms all the time. You need to strike a balance between keeping them cool and answering their need for exercise. When is it safe to bring your puppy outside? Let’s find out what temperature is too hot for dogs to walk.
Before scrolling down this guide, “What Temperature is Too Hot For Dogs to Walk,” check out these other related articles: What Temperature is Too Cold For Dogs Inside and Best Dog House For Hot Weather.
Is It Too Hot to Bring Your Dog Outside?
Don’t neglect to check the weather report for the outdoor temperature in your area. Are you planning to bring your pet out in the scorching sun? That is not a good idea when outdoor temperatures reach 68 °F and up.
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What Is the Best Temperature to Walk Your Dog?
The most enjoyable temperature to walk your dog is between 53 °F and 59 °F.
How Do You Check Outdoor Temperature For Your Dog?
Here’s a practical tip for testing outdoor temperatures. Place your hand against the sidewalk. If you can’t hold it there for more than 5-7 seconds, don’t take your dog out. Another telltale sign is if your dog starts panting heavily after only a few minutes of walking. That means it is too hot for them.
How Much Heat Can Your Dog Handle?
Dogs respond to heat differently. Your pet’s ability to adapt depends on its breed, physique, health, and lifestyle. Other factors that you need to consider are the environment and activity type.
- Dog breed type: The breed of your dog determines how much heat it can handle. Dogs bred in northern climates are not suited to warm weather, especially those with thick fur or short muzzles. A Saint Bernard or a Newfoundland will find it tough to regulate its body temperature during the summer. Breeds like Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pugs have difficulty panting, so they are unable to cool themselves easily.
- Coat type: Are you a miserable, sweaty mess during summer? Your dog is probably suffering even more. That wooly double coat can be a curse in hot weather. Double-coated breeds will find it harder to handle heat than ones with thinner coats.
- Health: Apart from breed, the health of your dog is also a deciding factor. If your dog is obese or has a disease related to the heart or lungs, they are at greater risk of heatstroke.
- Environment: Your pet will get hot faster in an urban area than if you were strolling in the countryside. A sidewalk will absorb more heat than a grassy surface. Your pet will be more comfortable on a breezy or cloudy day. Also, your dog will do better when there’s ample shade and less humidity.
- Activity type: If your dog is running or doing other strenuous exercises, your dog will heat up faster. A gentle jog or slow walk is best during hot days.
What Happens if Your Dog is Exposed to Too Much Heat?
Canines don’t do too well in extreme temperatures. If you are out enjoying a balmy day, keep a close eye on your dog. Beyond 68 °F, they will let you know they want to head inside by panting real fast. Your dog’s paws will also get burned if they walk on a sizzling sidewalk.
How to Know if Your Dog Is Suffering From Heatstroke
Watch out for early signs of heatstroke. This condition happens when the body temperature of your dog rises to damaging levels. Unfortunately, heatstroke can be fatal. The chances of your dog getting heatstroke are proportional to the rising temperature.
If your dog is overheating, it will start slowing down and panting excessively. Your pet may also have red eyes and dark gums. When this happens, get your pet indoors and cool them down.
If your dog has a fever, weakness, or is unable to breathe, take it to the vet right away. Check your dog’s temperature every 10 minutes. The normal temperature for your dog is between 101 °F and 102.5 °F. Anything above 103 °F is a sign of heatstroke.
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How to Know if Your Dog Is Dehydrated
Dehydration is also a risk since dogs sweat more during hot days. Symptoms include weakness, dry gums, sunken eyes, and lethargy. A dehydrated dog’s skin won’t be as supple. Take note that dehydration is life-threatening and should be treated by a vet as soon as possible.
Giving water is not enough since your dog will also need to replace lost electrolytes and nutrients. Your vet will give oral rehydration solutions or an IV drip to a dehydrated dog.
How to Cool Your Dog Down
Give water for drinking. It’s okay to put in ice cubes, provided your dog drinks slowly. Put your pet in a shower, pool, or muddy puddle. You can also pour cool water over its back and head.
Do not, however, put an overheating in ice-cold water. This may cause them to shiver and their blood vessels to contract. Check the temperature. If it reaches below 103°F, stop cooling them down or it will lead to hypothermia.
Dog Checklist for a Walk in the Heat
If your dog is healthy and you decide to take them out on a walk regardless of the heat keep in mind:
- Avoid walking your dog from 8 am to after 8 pm when the sun is at its peak. Walk them during the early evening or early morning.
- Stay in the shade as much as possible.
- Walk on grass or dirt paths.
- For longer walks or hikes, take water and a travel bowl with you.
- Don’t walk too fast and take breaks often.
- If your dog seems tired, take them home.
- Touch the surface where your dog walks to see if it’s hot.
Here are other precautions you need to take during warmer seasons:
- Do not neglect hydration. Even if a dog is indoors, it may still become dehydrated.
- Do not leave dogs inside parked cars, which can prove fatal. Cars heat up and become ovens under direct sunlight.
- Do not shave your dog’s coat. Your pet will shed the undercoat naturally during the spring or summer. Any interference will ruin the coat’s adaptability to the heat.
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Ideas to Exercise Your Dog if It’s Too Hot Outside
If you are concerned about your dog’s activity needs, here are some excellent substitutes:
- Walk your dog inside of a shopping mall: Visit a shopping mall or indoor space that’s pet-friendly. Your fur baby can walk, jog, even jump without fear of overheating. Not only that, but they will also enjoy seeing other people and sights.
- Teach your dog new tricks: Now’s the time to train your dog to respond to simple commands and gestures. You can easily reinforce obedience training or practice new tricks within the comfort of your home.
- Take your dog swimming: Water and summer go well together. You won’t have to worry about the heat, and they will feel better because of the exercise. Swimming is a good option for obese dogs since it will burn calories safely. You can set up a kiddie pool at home or bring your dog to the beach.
- Play indoor with your dog: Your dog won’t have to face the heat outside if you fulfill their activity needs indoors. Choose games that work even in a limited space. It may be as simple as fetch, hide and seek, or tug-of-war. If you have a large house, set up an obstacle course. You can also provide toys that require more movement.
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Conclusion For “What Temperature is Too Hot For Dogs to Walk”
Knowing how hot is too hot for a walk will save your dog from a serious illness. Always keep an eye on your dog for any early signs of heatstroke.
Summer is a great time to bond and have fun with your furry friends. Don’t let the heat beat you. Thanks to these practical tips, you can make summer fun for your pet.
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