Many people associate heat stroke in dogs with pets sitting in cars, but the truth is that it can happen in your backyard. If the temperature is uncomfortable for people, then the same goes for dogs.
You should take extra caution when bringing your pup outside when the temperature rises above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if you’re walking your dog on pavement. However, there are a couple of additional factors to consider when deciding how long your pup can be outside. Dr. Aliya McCullough, our on-staff veterinarian, has tips for keeping pets safe in hotter temperatures.
(Check out our cold weather guide, too, to learn how to keep your pet safe on the chilly days.)
The size of your pup has a lot to do with how safe it is for them to be in hot climates. Large dogs should be monitored more frequently than small-to-medium-sized dogs. Let’s say it’s 70 degrees Fahrenheit (around 21 degrees Celsius) — it’s not as risky for small-to-medium-sized dogs to play outside, but it is potentially unsafe for large dogs if they’re not supervised.
To make your decision about outdoor fun easier, we created a Hot Weather Safety Chart.
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When using our chart to determine how safe it is for your pup to be outside, add a point if your pet has a shorter snout (like a pug or Boston Terrier). Flatter snouts make it harder to breathe — especially in hot weather.
Is your dog overweight? If so, being exposed to warmer temperatures could be risky. Add a point when referencing the chart to determine safety.
Older dogs may find it harder to move around and get out of the sun, especially if they have mobility restrictions. Puppies are at risk, too, because they’re not fully accustomed to the hot temperature. Add a point to the number on the chart above if your pup is elderly or younger than 6 months.
Humidity plays a big role in outdoor safety because it makes the temperature feel much hotter than it is. As always, if it’s uncomfortable for you to be outside, it’s most likely uncomfortable for your dog.
On hotter days, always make sure there’s water and plenty of shaded areas for your dog, and know when it’s time for them to come inside. Monitor your pup if you decide to let them have an afternoon nap outdoors, as dogs can sometimes sleep so hard that they end up overheating if they don’t relocate.
You may be surprised to learn that swimming can cause your dog to overheat. If you ever consider allowing your dog to jump in the pool to cool off, ask your vet if it’s OK first. The ideal water temperature should be above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, if your vet gives the green light to let them doggie paddle around.
You'll want to consider your dog's paws when the weather is warm. Hot pavement can hurt dogs' feet and cause visible wounds like skin discoloration, redness, blisters or even missing skin on their pads.
Before strapping on your pup's harness, do a quick test. Touch your hand to the ground for 5 seconds. If it's painful or uncomfortable for you, it's definitely too hot for your dog’s paws. Dr. McCullough also recommends avoiding lengthy mid-day walks when it's the hottest (between 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM).
Your dog needs outdoor playtime. So, when the heat rises, be their best advocate. Our tips on warm weather safety will keep your pup feeling good and having fun all summer long.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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