Who doesn’t love summertime? It’s the season of beaches, barbeques, and blue skies. 

Summer also means hotter weather, which can be a bummer for our dogs. Extreme temperatures leave less opportunities for your pup to go on walks and play outside. The question is, how hot is too hot for dogs? 

What temperature is too hot for dogs? 

Checking the temperature before you let your dog outside is a good rule of thumb. Curious what temperature is too hot for dogs? Try to limit your dog’s outside time if it’s hotter than 89 degrees Fahrenheit. 

At 90 degrees or higher, dogs are more likely to develop heat stroke. But some dogs are more sensitive to heat than others. Even 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit is too hot for some pups. 

Humidity is another factor to consider. High humidity levels can make warm weather feel hotter and cold temperatures feel freezing. 

If it’s a rather humid day, 70 degrees may feel like 90 to your dog. Shorten your walks and limit outdoor activities with your dog on these days. Pay attention to your area’s heat index, which factors in both humidity and temperature. 

When is it too hot to walk your dog? 

Dogs that spend most of their time inside may depend on their daily walk. But hot summer days can make the pavement burn their perfect little paws. So, when is it too hot to walk your dog? Here’s a general guide on what temperature is too hot for dogs to walk in:

• 86°-100° F: Too hot for a walk
• 81°-85° F: A quick walk is doable. Overexertion in this range could be dangerous for your dog. 
• 76°-80° F: It’s okay to walk your dog, but make sure they aren’t overheating. 
• 70°-75° F: Perfect weather for a walk with all dogs. Keep an eye on seniors and large breeds. 
• 60°-69° F: Safe for all dogs. Enjoy your walk! 

Don’t even attempt a walk if the weather is 86 degrees or higher. Though the weather might be tolerable for you, it’s sweltering for your furry friend. 

The sun can heat concrete, asphalt, and pavement to feel 40 to 60 degrees warmer than the temperature. So on a 75 and sunny day, the sidewalk might be 125 degrees. Even a minute on pavement that hot can burn your pup’s paws. Puppies that haven’t developed calluses yet are especially at risk of paw damage on hot days. 

What’s a normal body temperature for dogs?

While humans have an average body temperature of about 98.6, it’s a little higher for dogs. A normal dog temperature for a healthy pup is somewhere between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.  

When a dog’s temperature gets to 106 degrees, they experience heatstroke. Rehydrating your dog and helping them cool down is essential at this point. If their normal dog temperature rises to 110 degrees, the consequences can be fatal. 

Worried your pup has heatstroke? Dogs experiencing overheating are pretty easy to spot. Since dogs can’t sweat, they cool down by panting heavily or drooling. If your pup can’t catch their breath and seems more lethargic than usual, they may have heatstroke. 

Dog Parenting Hacks for Hot Days & Summer Walks

There’s plenty to do with your dog in the summer – even when it’s blisteringly hot! Here are a few of our favorite ways to have a hydrated and happy summer with your pup. 

Stay hydrated!

No matter where you go with your dog or what you’re doing, bring extra water. Dehydration and heatstroke can be life-threatening to dogs. It’s better to be prepared and have water on you at all times than to need it and not have it. You can even accessorize and attach a Springer travel water bottle to your keys or belt.

Walk in the mornings or late evenings. 

If you live in more extreme climates, walking your dog in the summer is 10x harder. A 100 degree walk isn’t fun for you or your pup! Even when you wait til dark, the pavement is still hot from a day of full sun. Try to walk your dog in the early morning since that’s the coolest time of the day. 

Inside days can be fun! 

At the height of summer, there’s always a heatwave or week where it feels unbearable to go outside. It’s okay to skip a walk on those days! Stay inside with your pup and throw the ball around. You can also provide extra mental stimulation with DIY enrichment boxes. 

Don’t forget the Sundays!

If you and your pup will be jetsetting this summer, check out our fail-proof dog travel checklist. You don’t want to be halfway across the country without your dog’s food, leash, or medication. Even if you forget their kibble, we’ll ship some Sundays dog food to you as fast as we can!