9 Tips For Walking Your Dog in The Summer

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Walking your dog in the summer is an absolute blast—just picture wagging tails, sunshine, and endless adventures! However, to ensure that every stroll is as enjoyable as it is safe, check out this vibrant guide to summer dog walking.

Embrace the Summer Risks

Summer walks are full of fun, but they come with their own set of challenges. Let’s dive into keeping your dog cool and happy!

Heatstroke Alert

Heatstroke in dogs is no joke—it’s when your dog’s body overheats and can’t cool down quickly enough. Unlike us, dogs don’t sweat through their skin but rely on panting to cool off. Scorching temperatures and humidity can be overwhelming for their cooling system.

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs:

Excessive Panting: While panting is normal, if it’s excessive or seems out of control, it could be a sign of heatstroke.
Drooling: A puddle of drool or thick, sticky saliva can mean your pup’s overheating.
Vomiting and Diarrhea: These can signal that your dog’s digestive system is struggling with the heat.
Lethargy or Weakness: If your dog seems unusually tired or wobbly, they might be feeling the heat.
Bright Red or Pale Gums: Check their gums! Red ones can indicate overheating, while pale gums might suggest shock.

Preventing Heatstroke:

Time Your Walks: Hit the pavement early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the blazing midday sun.
Provide Water: Keep a water bottle handy for both you and your furry friend. Make sure your pup takes regular water breaks.
Find Shade: Stop in the shade to let your dog cool down and catch their breath.
Cooling Products: Equip your dog with cooling vests, bandanas, or mats to help manage their temperature.

What to Do If Your Dog Shows Signs:

Move to a Cooler Area: Get your dog out of the heat immediately.
Offer Water: Provide small sips of cool water—no ice-cold gulps!
Cool Down Gradually: Use a damp cloth to cool them off. Avoid ice packs, as they can slow down the cooling process.
Seek Veterinary Help: If symptoms persist, head to the vet pronto. Heatstroke can be very serious.

Hot Paw Pads

Paw pads can get scorching hot and burn easily on sizzling surfaces. Asphalt, concrete, and sand can turn into mini fryers under the summer sun, posing a risk to your dog’s feet.

Signs of Paw Pad Burns:

Limping or Favoring a Paw: If your dog is limping or shying away from putting weight on a paw, it might be burned.
Redness or Blisters: Look for redness, blisters, or peeling skin on their pads.
Excessive Licking: If your dog is obsessively licking their paws, they could be in pain.

Preventing Paw Pad Burns:

Test the Surface: Place your hand or bare foot on the ground. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog!
Choose Cool Routes: Walk on grass, dirt paths, or shaded areas where the ground stays cooler.
Paw Protectors: Use dog booties or paw wax to shield their paws from hot surfaces. Make sure the booties fit snugly and comfortably.
Regular Paw Checks: Inspect and clean your dog’s paws after walks to catch any damage.

What to Do If Your Dog’s Paws Are Burned:

Cool the Pads: Soak their paws in cool water for 5-10 minutes.
Apply a Soothing Ointment: Use a pet-safe balm to soothe burned areas.
Avoid Walking: Keep your dog off hot surfaces until they’re healed.
Consult a Vet: For severe burns or deep injuries, a vet visit is essential.

Dehydration Drama

Dehydration happens when your dog loses more fluids than they’re taking in—usually due to heat and panting. Dehydration in dogs is a serious condition that needs proper management.

Signs of Dehydration:

Excessive Thirst: If your dog seems parched, it’s a red flag.
Dry Nose and Gums: Check for a dry, sticky nose or gums. Healthy gums should be moist.
Sunken Eyes: Dehydration can make your dog’s eyes look hollow.
Loss of Skin Elasticity: Pinch the skin on their neck. If it doesn’t snap back quickly, your dog might be dehydrated.
Lethargy and Weakness: Tiredness or weakness can be signs of dehydration.

Preventing Dehydration:

Always Carry Water: Bring a portable bowl and water on every walk.
Encourage Drinking: Offer water frequently. If your dog isn’t drinking enough, you might need to offer it more often.
Provide Water at Home: Ensure fresh water is always available, especially during hot weather.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Dehydrated:

Offer Water: Give small sips of water regularly, but avoid letting them gulp too much at once.
Cool Down: Move to a cooler spot and use a damp cloth to help cool them off.
Seek Veterinary Care: For severe dehydration, contact your vet immediately.

Choose the Right Time

Timing is everything when it comes to keeping your dog cool and happy! Here’s how to plan your walks to stay cool and make the most out of your sunny adventures together.

Early Bird or Evening Strolls

The sun is hottest from late morning to mid-afternoon, making walks uncomfortable and unsafe. Early morning or late evening walks are cooler and more enjoyable.

Early Morning Walks:

Temperature Benefits: The early morning air is cool and refreshing.
Less Traffic: Quieter streets mean a peaceful stroll.
Start the Day Right: An early walk sets a positive tone for the day.

Late Evening Walks:

Cooling Off: Temperatures drop in the evening, creating a comfortable environment.
Evening Calm: Less sunlight and activity make for a relaxing walk.

Why Short Walks Can Be Better

Long walks are great, but shorter, more frequent strolls are ideal during hot weather. They keep your dog cool and happy while still providing exercise and mental stimulation.

Benefits of Multiple Short Walks:

Cooling Breaks: Shorter walks reduce heat exposure and allow for frequent breaks.
Paw Protection: Less time on hot surfaces means fewer paw pad burns.
Energy Management: Multiple walks help manage energy levels and prevent overstimulation.

How to Implement Short Walks:

Morning and Evening: Add a few short strolls around the block or playtime in a shaded yard.
Mental Stimulation: Engage your dog’s senses with games and training exercises.

Balancing Energy and Comfort

Adjust your walks based on your dog’s energy level and comfort. If they seem tired or overheated, it’s time to cut back on the length or intensity.

Keep Cool

Keeping your dog cool during summer walks is essential for their comfort and health. Here’s how to make sure your pup stays cool and refreshed!

Shade and Rest

Shade is a lifesaver in the summer heat. Incorporate shaded areas into your walks to prevent overheating and give your dog a chance to cool down.

Finding and Utilizing Shade:

Plan Your Route: Choose routes with natural shade—like parks or wooded trails.
Take Breaks: Stop regularly in shaded spots for rest and hydration.
Portable Shade: Consider bringing a collapsible umbrella for extra shade during breaks.

Resting and Cooling Down:

Hydration Stops: Use rest breaks to offer water and let your dog drink at their own pace.
Cooling Mats: Lay down a cooling mat or towel for your dog to lie on during breaks.

Must-Have Gear for Summer Strolls

Cooling Vests and Bandanas: These handy items help regulate your dog’s temperature, making summer walks a breeze!

Cooling Vests:

How They Work: Made from water-absorbing fabrics, they cool as water evaporates.
Choosing the Right Vest: Look for adjustable, breathable vests that fit comfortably.
Usage Tips: Soak and keep the vest damp throughout your walk.

Cooling Bandanas:

How They Work: Similar to vests, they absorb water and cool through evaporation.
Choosing the Right Bandana: Adjustable and breathable materials work best.
Usage Tips: Soak, wring out, and adjust as needed for comfort.

Use Sunscreen Wisely

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from sunburn, especially those with short coats or light skin. Using sunscreen designed specifically for pets is a great way to protect them from harmful UV rays and prevent painful sunburn. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use sunscreen effectively for your dog.

Why Sunscreen Matters:

Sensitive Skin: Dogs with short coats, light-colored fur, or no fur at all have less natural protection from the sun’s UV rays. Their skin is more susceptible to sunburn, particularly on areas with less fur.
Preventing Sunburn: Just like with humans, sunburn in dogs can cause discomfort and skin damage. It can lead to redness, peeling, and even more serious skin issues if not addressed.

Identifying At-Risk Dogs:

Short-Coated Breeds: Breeds like the Boxer, Dalmation, or Greyhound have less fur to protect their skin.
Light-Colored Fur: Dogs with light-colored fur or skin, such as the White German Shepherd or Bull Terrier, are at higher risk.
Hairless Breeds: Hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested or the American Hairless Terrier are particularly vulnerable to sunburn.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Avoid Human Sunscreens: Many human sunscreens contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Always choose products specifically formulated for pets.
Check for Ingredients: Look for sunscreens that are free from zinc oxide, PABA, and other potentially toxic ingredients. Opt for natural, hypoallergenic formulas when possible.

SPF Level: Select a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This level offers good protection without being too harsh on your dog’s sensitive skin.
Form and Application: Sunscreens come in sprays, lotions, and sticks. Sprays can be easier to apply, but ensure they are pet-safe and avoid inhalation. Lotions and sticks may be better for targeted application.

Applying Sunscreen Effectively

Sensitive Areas to Protect:

Nose: The nose is a common area for sunburn, especially in dogs with light-colored or short fur. Apply sunscreen to the tip of the nose and the bridge.
Ears: The ear tips are also prone to sunburn. Gently apply sunscreen to the outer edges of the ears.
Belly and Groin Area: These areas often have less fur and can be exposed during sunny walks. Apply sunscreen to the belly, groin, and any other areas where the fur is sparse.

Application:

Test First: Before applying sunscreen all over, test a small amount on a patch of your dog’s skin to check for any adverse reactions.
Apply Generously: Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to all exposed areas. Make sure it’s evenly spread and not just in patches.
Reapply as Needed: Sunscreen may wear off due to sweating, swimming, or rubbing. Reapply as necessary, especially if your dog is active or wet.

Signs of Sunburn:

Redness or Rash: Look for signs of redness or a rash on the protected areas.
Flaking or Peeling: Sunburned skin may start to flake or peel. If this occurs, ensure your dog is comfortable and consult your vet for further advice.

Be Aware of Wildlife and Pests

Summer brings a surge in outdoor activities for both dogs and the creatures they might encounter. To ensure your walks are safe and enjoyable, it’s important to be aware of pests like ticks and fleas, as well as potential wildlife encounters. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to protect your dog from these summer threats.

Ticks and Fleas

Ticks and fleas are more active in warmer months, thriving in tall grass, wooded areas, and even your own backyard. They can cause discomfort, allergic reactions, and transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and tapeworms.

Preventing Pests:

Use Preventative Medications: Consult your vet about the best tick and flea prevention products for your dog. Options include oral medications, topical treatments, and flea collars. Make sure to follow the recommended usage instructions for the best results.
Regular Grooming: Brush your dog frequently, especially after walks in areas with tall grass or brush. Use a fine-toothed comb to check for and remove any ticks or fleas. Pay close attention to areas like the neck, ears, and underbelly.
Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly clean your dog’s bedding, toys, and living areas. Vacuum your home frequently to remove any fleas or ticks that might have made their way inside.

Checking for Ticks and Fleas:

Inspect After Walks: After each walk, conduct a thorough check of your dog’s coat. Look for ticks, which are small and can be flat or engorged, and fleas, which are tiny and often seen hopping or moving.
Use Tick Removal Tools: If you find a tick, use a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers to carefully remove it. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it out steadily. Avoid twisting or squeezing the tick, as this can leave parts embedded in the skin.

Dealing with Infestations:

Consult Your Vet: If you discover a tick bite or signs of fleas, consult your vet for advice and treatment. They may recommend specific treatments or additional measures to eliminate pests and prevent future infestations.

Wildlife: Avoiding Dangerous Encounters

Summer is a busy time for wildlife, with animals like deer, raccoons, skunks, and snakes becoming more active. While most wildlife will avoid humans and dogs, some encounters can pose risks.

Preventing Wildlife Encounters:

Stay on Trails: Stick to well-trodden paths and avoid wandering into dense foliage or underbrush where wildlife may be hiding.
Leash Control: Keep your dog on a leash to prevent them from chasing or approaching wildlife. This helps ensure you have control and can steer your dog away from potentially dangerous situations.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay alert and watch for signs of wildlife, such as tracks, droppings, or noises. If you see or hear wildlife, calmly and slowly guide your dog away from the area.

Handling Potential Encounters:

Stay Calm: If you encounter wildlife, remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Do not try to approach or interact with the animals.
Create Distance: Back away slowly while keeping your dog close. Ensure your dog is securely leashed and under control.
Educate Yourself: Learn about the types of wildlife in your area and their behaviors. Understanding what to expect can help you react appropriately in case of an encounter.

Tailor to Your Dog’s Needs

Different breeds have unique needs when it comes to handling summer heat. To keep your dog comfortable and safe during hot weather, it’s essential to tailor your approach based on their breed-specific characteristics. Here’s how to adjust your summer walking routine for both short-muzzled and long-haired breeds.

Short-Muzzled Breeds:

Short-muzzled breeds, also known as brachycephalic dogs, include popular breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs. These dogs have flat faces and shorter nasal passages, which can make it harder for them to regulate their body temperature effectively.

Why They’re More Susceptible:

Reduced Airflow: The structure of their muzzle limits airflow, making it harder for them to cool down through panting.
Heat Sensitivity: They’re more prone to overheating and heatstroke because they can’t dissipate heat as efficiently as longer-muzzled breeds.

Adjusting Walks for Short-Muzzled Breeds:

Short and Frequent Walks: Limit walk duration to shorter periods and consider multiple shorter outings throughout the day rather than one long walk. This helps prevent overheating and allows your dog to cool down between walks.
Cool Times of Day: Schedule walks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day.
Cool Down: Always carry water and offer frequent breaks for your dog to hydrate and cool down. Bring a portable water bowl to ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.
Avoid Hot Surfaces: Be mindful of hot pavement or sand, which can further exacerbate their discomfort. Opt for grassy or shaded paths whenever possible.

Signs of Overheating:

Excessive panting
Heavy drooling
Difficulty breathing
Lethargy or disorientation

If you notice any of these signs, immediately move your dog to a cool, shaded area, offer water, and consult your vet if symptoms persist.

Long-Haired Breeds

Long-haired breeds, such as the Siberian Husky, Golden Retriever, and Afghan Hound, have dense fur that can trap heat and make it challenging for them to stay cool in hot weather.

Why They Need Special Care:

Insulation: Their thick coats provide insulation against both cold and heat, which can lead to overheating if not managed properly.
Matting and Tangling: Long fur can become matted and tangled, which can further inhibit their ability to cool down.

Adjusting Walks for Long-Haired Breeds:

Regular Grooming: Schedule regular grooming sessions to keep their coat in good condition. Regular brushing helps remove loose fur and prevents matting, which can improve airflow and cooling.
Summer Haircuts: Consider a summer trim to help reduce the thickness of their coat while still protecting their skin from sunburn. Consult a groomer about the best haircut for your dog’s breed and coat type.
Cool Walks: Similar to short-muzzled breeds, plan walks for cooler times of the day and choose shaded or grassy areas. Avoid hot pavement or sand.
Hydration and Rest: Ensure your dog has access to water and take frequent breaks during walks. Provide a cool resting spot for them to relax and cool down.