How to Keep Your Dog Cool & Happy During Summer Walks
Because tail wags shouldn’t come with sunburns
Summer is a great time for outdoor adventures, but it can also be challenging for our four-legged friends. Dogs don’t sweat like humans do, and they’re much more vulnerable to overheating, burned paws, and dehydration during hot weather.
But don’t worry — summer walks can still be safe and fun with a few mindful adjustments. Here’s how to keep your pup cool, hydrated, and happy during the sunny season!
1. Walk Early or Late
The time of day you walk your dog matters more than you think. Midday heat (between 11am–4pm) can be too intense for dogs, especially those with thick coats, short noses (like pugs or bulldogs), or senior dogs.
Best times to walk:
Early morning (before 9am)
Late evening (after 6:30pm)
If you must go out mid-day, keep walks short and shady.
2. Paw Check: The 5-Second Rule
Dogs’ paw pads are sensitive and can burn on hot pavement or sand. A simple test: place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
How to protect their paws:
Stick to grass and shaded trails
Use dog booties or paw wax
Always check and clean paws after walks
Choose paw-friendly paths – your pup will thank you!
3. Hydration Is Everything
Dogs can get dehydrated fast in warm weather. Always carry a portable water bottle and bowl for your pup.
You can also boost hydration with fun, cooling snacks at home. Lecker Bites’ Freeze-Dried Chicken Breast and Crunchy Chicken Neck are great high-protein treats that can be popped into a Kong with some dog-safe yogurt and frozen — perfect for a post-walk cool-down.
Quick frozen treat idea:
A spoon of plain Greek yogurt
Freeze it in a Kong or ice cube tray
Serve post-walk = happy dog!
4. Watch for Signs of Overheating
Unlike us, dogs can’t tell us they’re feeling too hot. Look out for these signs of heat stress:
Heavy panting
Bright red tongue or gums
Drooling
Lethargy
Vomiting or diarrhea
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If your dog shows any of these signs, stop walking immediately, move them to a cool area, offer water, and contact your vet.
5. Keep It Short & Sweet
Even the most energetic dog doesn’t need a 45-minute walk in the heat. In summer, quality beats quantity.
Play a short game of fetch in a shaded backyard, or set up a sprinkler or kiddie pool for some splashy fun. Many dogs enjoy short “sniff walks” where they explore smells in a cooler, shaded area — mental stimulation without the heat stress.
Cooling down after a summer stroll with a reward!
6. Don’t Forget Sunscreen (Yes, Really)
Some dogs, especially light-colored or hairless breeds, can get sunburns. Apply pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like ears, bellies, and noses if they’ll be out for long.
Never use human sunscreen — it can be toxic to dogs.
Final Woofs
Summer walks can be magical — chirping birds, golden sunsets, wagging tails. With just a few tweaks, you can keep your dog safe and joyful, even in the hottest months.
Always carry water, walk when it’s cool, protect those precious paws, and treat your pup to something refreshing afterwards. Whether it’s a frozen Kong, a shady nap, or a Lecker Bites snack, small comforts make a big difference.
Stay cool, stay safe — and happy walking! 🐾
Looking for summer-safe snacks for your pup?
Explore Lecker Bites’ freeze-dried treat range — no added nasties, just pure, tail-wagging goodness.
