How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws During Hot Weather Walks
As the summer sun heats up, it's not just the heat that can be tough on your dog—it’s also the pavement, sand, and other surfaces they walk on.
Hot weather means your dog's paws are at risk of burns, irritation, and even long-term damage.
But don’t worry—keeping your dog’s paws safe is easy with a few precautions. Here’s everything you need to know to protect your furry friend during those sunny, warm-weather walks.
1. Walk During Cooler Hours
One of the simplest ways to keep your dog’s paws safe is to choose the right time for your walks.
Aim for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler and the pavement hasn’t been scorched by the sun.
Midday walks, while convenient, can often mean a hot, uncomfortable stroll for your dog—especially if you're walking on hard surfaces.
2. Test the Ground Temperature
If you’re unsure whether the pavement or path is too hot for your dog’s paws, test it yourself. Place the back of your hand on the ground for about 7-10 seconds.
If it’s too hot for you to hold your hand there, it’s definitely too hot for your dog.
If the ground is too warm, consider switching to a grassy route or heading for a shaded area where the surface is cooler and more paw-friendly.
3. Use Dog Booties
Dog booties are a great solution for protecting your pup’s paws from the heat.
While some dogs may need time to get used to wearing them, booties will provide a layer of protection against hot pavement, rough terrain, and even sharp objects like stones.
Make sure to choose lightweight, breathable boots designed for warm weather to keep your dog comfortable while they walk.
4. Apply Paw Balm
If your dog isn’t keen on wearing booties, paw balm is an excellent alternative.
A high-quality paw balm will help protect your dog’s paws from burns, dryness, and cracking caused by the heat.
Simply apply it to the pads before your walk to form a protective barrier against the hot ground. Look for balms with natural ingredients, as they are safer for your dog if they happen to lick their paws.
5. Stick to Shaded Paths
Whenever possible, avoid walking on direct sunlight or hot tarmac. Seek out shaded areas where the ground is naturally cooler.
Parks with trees, wooded areas, or trails surrounded by grass are ideal for hot weather walks, as they provide both shade and a much cooler surface for your dog to walk on.
Not only will this help protect their paws, but it also makes for a more enjoyable walk for both of you!
6. Hydrate and Rest Regularly
Hot weather can be draining for both you and your dog, so make sure to take regular breaks during your walk. Give your dog a chance to rest, drink water, and cool off before continuing.
This will help prevent overexertion, overheating, and potential injuries from walking on hot surfaces for too long. Always carry a portable water bowl and ensure your dog has access to fresh water throughout the walk.
7. Keep Your Dog's Nails Trimmed
Long nails can cause discomfort or make it harder for your dog to walk properly, especially when walking on hard surfaces.
Trim your dog’s nails regularly to help them maintain a comfortable stride and reduce the risk of paw injuries.
This also allows your dog’s paws to make better contact with the ground, making it easier for them to walk on different surfaces.
8. Be Cautious of Sand and Beach Walks
While beach walks can be a fun summer treat, hot sand can burn your dog’s paws just like pavement can.
If you’re heading to the beach, keep your dog’s paws safe by sticking to areas where the sand is cooler, like near the water’s edge.
After a beach walk, rinse your dog’s paws with cool water to remove any salt, sand, or debris that might cause irritation.
9. Know the Signs of Paw Injuries
Even with all the precautions, it’s essential to be aware of any signs that your dog’s paws have been damaged during a walk. Watch for limping, excessive licking, or sensitivity to touch.
If you notice your dog showing any of these signs, take a break and inspect their paws for blisters, cuts, or burns.
If you spot any injuries, clean the affected area with cool water and contact your vet for further advice if needed.
10. Give Paws Time to Recover
If your dog’s paws do get irritated or sore after a walk, allow them time to rest and recover.
Keep them indoors as much as possible, and try not to take them out on walks until their paws have healed. Using soothing paw balms and giving them a paw soak in cool water can help relieve discomfort and promote healing.
Conclusion
Protecting your dog’s paws in hot weather is all about being mindful of the surfaces they walk on, the time of day, and taking simple precautions like using paw balm, booties, and walking in the cooler hours.
By being proactive, you can ensure that your dog enjoys their summer walks without risking burns or injuries. After all, happy, healthy paws lead to happy, healthy walks!