Summer is one of the best times of year to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. Longer days, warmer weather, and brighter evenings create more opportunities for adventures, exploring new places, and spending quality time together.
However, warmer temperatures also bring new challenges for dog owners. A walk that feels comfortable for us can quickly become unsafe for our four-legged friends.
According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), dogs can suffer from heat-related illnesses quickly during warm weather, especially when exercised during the hottest parts of the day. Unlike humans, dogs do not cool down as efficiently, making it important for owners to adjust their walking routines during summer.
At Muddy Barkers, we believe a great dog walk is not just about the distance you cover or where you go — it is about making sure every adventure is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for both dogs and their owners.
Walk Early or Walk Late
One of the easiest ways to protect your dog during summer is choosing the right time of day.
Early mornings and late evenings are usually the coolest and most comfortable times for walks. During warmer weather, try to plan your walks before 10 am or after 7 pm, when temperatures have had more time to drop.
Many people assume that the late afternoon is a good time to walk because the sun is lower, but on hot days, the period between 3 pm and 6 pm can still be uncomfortable for dogs. Pavements, roads, and paths can hold onto heat from the sun, making surfaces hot for paws and increasing the risk of overheating.
Whenever possible, avoid the hottest parts of the day and choose a cooler time when your dog can enjoy the walk safely.
Remember, a summer walk does not always need to be long.
A shorter walk where your dog can sniff, explore, and enjoy their surroundings can be just as rewarding. Dogs experience the world through their noses, and allowing time to sniff provides valuable mental stimulation while keeping the pace gentle.
Sometimes the best summer adventure is simply a slow wander through a shaded area, stopping to investigate new smells and enjoy the environment.
Your dog does not measure a good walk by distance — they measure it by the experiences they enjoy. 🐾
Check the Pavement Before You Walk
Many owners remember to check the weather forecast but forget about the surface their dog is walking on.
During sunny days, pavements, roads, and artificial surfaces can become extremely hot and may burn sensitive paw pads.
A simple way to check is the seven-second test:
Place the back of your hand against the pavement. If you cannot comfortably hold it there for seven seconds, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
Whenever possible, choose cooler routes such as:
🐾 Grass paths
🐾 Woodland trails
🐾 Shaded parks
🐾 Natural footpaths
These surfaces are gentler on paws and provide a much more comfortable walking experience.
Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Dogs can lose water quickly during warm weather, especially when exercising.
For longer walks, always bring:
- Fresh drinking water
- A portable bowl
- Time for regular breaks
Do not wait until your dog appears thirsty. Offering water throughout your walk can help prevent dehydration and overheating.
Signs your dog may need a break include:
- Excessive panting
- Slowing down
- Searching for shade
- Lying down unexpectedly
- Seeming less interested in continuing
A few minutes of rest can make all the difference.
Take Plenty of Breaks
Summer walks do not need to be about speed, distance, or reaching a certain number of miles.
Allow your dog time to:
🐶 Rest in shaded areas
🐶 Sniff and explore
🐶 Cool down naturally
🐶 Enjoy the surroundings
Dogs often benefit more from a relaxed walk where they can take their time rather than a long walk in uncomfortable heat.
At Muddy Barkers, we often see dog owners using our vending machine locations as part of their walking routine. A quick stop for a treat, toy, or essential item gives dogs a chance to pause, recharge, and enjoy a little reward before continuing their adventure.
Slow Down and Let Them Sniff
When temperatures rise, slowing the pace can make a big difference.
A walk does not always have to be about covering miles. Allowing your dog to stop and sniff is a great way to keep them mentally engaged without putting unnecessary strain on their body.
Sniffing provides:
🐾 Mental stimulation
🐾 Relaxation and enrichment
🐾 A chance to explore safely
🐾 Quality bonding time with you
A gentle sniff walk in a shaded area can be just as satisfying as a longer walk.
On very warm days, choosing a shorter, slower walk is often the kindest choice.
Choose Shaded Walking Routes
Not every walking route is suitable during hot weather.
Before heading out, consider routes with:
🌳 Tree cover
🌳 Woodland paths
🌳 Parks with shaded seating
🌳 Access to safe water areas
Shaded routes help reduce heat exposure and make summer walks much more enjoyable for both dogs and owners.
Planning your route before leaving can help you avoid exposed areas where your dog may struggle with the heat.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a serious condition and requires immediate attention.
Look out for signs including:
- Heavy or excessive panting
- Bright red gums
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Weakness or confusion
- Collapse
If you think your dog may be suffering from heatstroke:
- Move them into a shaded or cooler area immediately.
- Offer cool water (avoid ice-cold water).
- Gently cool them using cool water, especially around their body and paws.
- Contact your vet as soon as possible.
Acting quickly can make a significant difference.
Enjoy Summer Safely
Summer should be a season of fun, exploration, and happy memories with your dog.
By choosing cooler walking times, checking pavement temperatures, keeping your dog hydrated, planning shaded routes, and allowing plenty of rest and sniffing breaks, you can help make every walk a safe and enjoyable experience.
At Muddy Barkers, we believe that small preparations make a big difference. Whether it is a quick stop for a treat, a fresh water break, or simply taking time to slow down, every detail helps create better adventures for dogs and their owners.
Because the best summer walks are not always the longest ones — they are the ones that end with happy tails, happy owners, and memories worth making. 🐾☀️
