The Ultimate Summer Dog Safety Guide:
Keep Your Pup Happy, Healthy & Cool All Season Long
07.10.2026
Summer is made for adventures with your best friend. Whether you’re hiking a new trail, relaxing at the beach, firing up the backyard BBQ, or heading out on a weekend road trip, there’s nothing better than making memories with your dog by your side.
But while we enjoy the sunshine, our dogs experience heat much differently than we do. Because dogs primarily cool themselves by panting, they can overheat much faster, putting them at risk for dehydration, burned paw pads, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke.
Why Summer Can Be Dangerous for Dogs
One of the biggest misconceptions is that if you feel comfortable outside, your dog probably does too. Unfortunately, that’s not always true.
Dogs naturally run warmer than humans, with an average body temperature between 101°F and 102.5°F. Add in a thick coat, direct sunlight, warm pavement, and excitement from play, and their body temperature can rise surprisingly fast.
Certain dogs are even more vulnerable to heat, including:
- Puppies
- Senior dogs
- Overweight dogs
- Flat-faced breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs)
- Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions
- Long-haired breeds
- Dark-coated dogs spending long periods in direct sun
Knowing your dog’s individual limits is one of the most important aspects of summer safety for dogs.
Common Summer Hazards
Summer brings more than just rising temperatures. It also introduces seasonal hazards that every dog owner should be aware of.
Hot Pavement
Asphalt can become dangerously hot even when the air temperature feels pleasant. On an 85°F day, pavement temperatures can exceed 130°F – hot enough to burn sensitive paw pads in less than a minute.
Heat Exhaustion
Too much exercise, high humidity, poor ventilation, or extended time in the sun can quickly lead to dog heat exhaustion.
Dehydration
Dogs lose water rapidly through panting. Without regular opportunities to drink, dehydration can happen faster than many owners realize.
Sunburn
Yes – dogs can get sunburned too, especially those with light-colored noses, thin coats, or exposed skin.
Ticks & Insects
Summer adventures often mean more encounters with ticks, mosquitoes, fleas, and other pests that can carry disease.
The takeaway? Summer doesn’t mean staying indoors – it simply means planning smarter adventures. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything summer has to offer while keeping your pup safe, comfortable, and ready for every adventure.
Here are our favorite summer dog safety tips to help you enjoy the season together.
1. Plan Walks Around the Weather 
One of the easiest ways to practice summer dog safety is simply choosing the right time of day.
Early mornings and evenings are usually the coolest times to get outside, making walks safer and more enjoyable for your dog. Midday temperatures can quickly become dangerous, especially when humidity is high.
If it’s too hot for you to comfortably exercise outside, chances are it’s even hotter for your dog.
Pro Tip: Before heading out, place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5–7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
2. Keep Your Dog Cool and Hydrated 
Hydration is one of the most important parts of keeping dogs cool during summer.
Always bring:
- Fresh water
- A collapsible travel bowl
- Plenty of opportunities for water breaks
Offer water frequently, even if your dog doesn’t seem thirsty. Whenever possible, plan breaks in shaded areas to help your dog’s body cool naturally before continuing your adventure.
3. Protect Those Precious Paw Pads 
Hot asphalt, concrete, sand, and even artificial turf can reach temperatures capable of burning paw pads in minutes.
Instead, choose:
- Grassy walking paths
- Dirt trails
- Shaded sidewalks
- Parks with natural ground cover
Checking your dog’s paws after every adventure is also a great habit. Look for cuts, redness, or debris that may have become lodged between their toes.
4. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car 
Even with the windows cracked, the inside of a parked vehicle can become dangerously hot in just a few minutes. Temperatures inside a car can climb well above 120°F, creating life-threatening conditions.
If your dog can’t safely come inside with you, it’s always best to leave them comfortably at home.
5. Pack Smart for Every Summer Adventure 
Whether you’re heading to the beach, hiking your favorite trail, camping under the stars, or spending the afternoon at a family barbecue, having a few essentials packed ahead of time makes every outing safer – and a lot less stressful.
Your Summer Adventure Bag
Fresh water Travel bowl Leash & waste bags Cooling towel Portable shade Pet first-aid kit High-value training treats Nutritious food for longer adventures
For treating on the trail or keeping your dog happy for great behavior during your outing, Tiny Loves are an easy addition to your adventure bag. Their soft, chewy texture and perfectly portioned 2-calorie bites make them ideal for frequent rewards without overdoing it.
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But what if your dog mastered a new trail or practiced excellent recall at the park? High-value rewards can help reinforce positive experiences. Dogs Love Jerky features premium USA-raised protein and a soft, tender texture that dogs love. The soft patties break apart easily, making them especially convenient while remaining incredibly rewarding.
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Planning a full-day adventure? The Good List Air-Dried Dog Food travels exceptionally well thanks to its soft jerky-style pieces. Since it works as a complete and balanced meal, topper, mixer, treat, or trainer, it eliminates the need to pack multiple types of food or treats.
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6. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion 
Even with careful planning, it’s important to recognize the early signs of dog heat exhaustion.
Watch for:
- Excessive panting
- Heavy drooling
- Bright red gums
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Disorientation
- Difficulty walking
- Collapse
If you notice these symptoms, immediately move your dog to a cool, shaded area, offer cool (not ice-cold) water, and gently cool them with damp towels. Contact your veterinarian immediately, as heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke if left untreated.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary care.
In addition to the symptoms above, dogs experiencing heat stroke may:
- Collapse
- Become unresponsive
- Experience seizures
- Have difficulty breathing
- Lose consciousness
If you suspect heat stroke, begin cooling your dog while contacting your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal hospital immediately. Time is critical, and prompt treatment can make all the difference.
The best treatment, however, is prevention. Choosing cooler times for outdoor activities, keeping fresh water readily available, taking frequent shade breaks, and recognizing the early warning signs of overheating can help ensure your dog’s summer adventures stay safe.
Summer Dog Safety Checklist
Before you head out on your next adventure, take a minute to make sure you’ve packed everything your pup needs for a safe and enjoyable day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot is too hot to walk my dog?
While every dog is different, many veterinarians recommend using extra caution once temperatures reach 80°F, especially when humidity is high. Dogs can overheat much faster than people, so plan walks during the early morning or evening whenever possible. Always check the pavement before heading out.
How can I tell if the pavement is too hot?
A quick way to check is the five-second rule. Place the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s uncomfortable for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Whenever possible, choose grassy areas or shaded trails instead of asphalt or concrete.
Can dogs get dehydrated even if they’re drinking water?
Yes. Dogs lose water rapidly through panting, particularly during exercise or humid weather. Offer water frequently throughout your adventure instead of waiting until your dog appears thirsty or tired. Regular water breaks are one of the easiest ways to help keep your dog cool and hydrated.
Can dogs get sunburned?
Surprisingly, yes! Dogs with thin coats, light-colored fur, pink noses, or exposed skin are more susceptible to sunburn. Limiting prolonged sun exposure and providing shade during the hottest parts of the day can help protect sensitive skin.
What are the first signs of heat exhaustion in dogs?
Some of the earliest warning signs include excessive panting, heavy drooling, bright red gums, weakness, glazed eyes, vomiting, or slowing down during exercise. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately, offer cool water, and contact your veterinarian if symptoms don’t improve quickly.
What should I pack for a summer adventure with my dog?
A well-stocked adventure bag should include:
- Fresh water
- A collapsible bowl
- Leash and waste bags
- Cooling towel
- Pet first-aid kit
- Healthy food for longer outings
- High-value treats for training and rewarding
- A favorite toy or chew for rest breaks
Planning ahead helps make every outing safer, more enjoyable, and stress-free for both you and your dog.
Make Every Summer Adventure Safe
By planning ahead, recognizing the signs of overheating, staying hydrated, and packing wholesome food and treats for every outing, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything the season has to offer with confidence.
Farmland Traditions is proud to help fuel every adventure with simple ingredients, premium USA-raised proteins, and soft air-dried recipes dogs love.
