5 Tips for Walking Your Dog This Summer

Daily exercise is essential for your dog — but summer heat can make walks genuinely dangerous. Here are five tips to keep your dog safe and comfortable when temperatures rise.

1. Time It Right: Walk in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are coolest. Avoid midday walks when the sun and pavement are at their hottest.

2. Less Is More: Skip long walks in summer. Two shorter walks during cooler hours are safer and more comfortable than one long midday outing.

3. Watch Where You Walk: Hot concrete and asphalt can burn your dog's paw pads. If you can't hold your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Stick to grass, or use protective dog boots. Browse our dog accessories collection for walk gear. Note: Dogs with darker coats absorb more heat — take extra care with them in direct sun.

4. Hydrate at Home: Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times — especially right after a walk. Keep their bowl full with supplies from our pet feeding and watering collection.

5. Hydrate On the Go: Bring a water bottle and a collapsible bowl on every summer walk. If your dog is panting heavily or slowing down, stop for a water break in the shade immediately.

6. Groom Appropriately: Dogs with heavy coats benefit from a summer trim. A shorter coat helps them regulate body temperature more effectively in the heat. Browse our dog grooming collection for brushes and grooming tools.

For more on keeping your dog safe in summer, see our guides on protecting your dog from the sun and BBQs and picnics with your dog.