How hot is too hot to walk your dog in California? What to know as high temps hit
As California braces for a potentially record-breaking heat wave, pet experts and veterinarians are warning dog owners about the impact of extreme temperatures.
“If it’s hot outside for you, it’s even hotter for your pet,” the American Veterinary Medical Association said. “Knowing the risks and being prepared can help keep your pet safe.”
Here’s how to tell when it’s too hot for your pet and how to keep them safe during a heat wave:
Is it safe to walk your dog during a heat wave?
Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat through their skin to cool off, according to the California Department of Public Health.
Instead, dogs primarily regulate heat through panting and small sweat glands in their paw pads. This puts them at risk of overheating and heat stroke, especially when walking on hot pavement or spending time in direct sunlight.
According to the state department, pets are more likely to suffer from heat stroke if they:
- Are wearing a muzzle, which makes it harder for them to cool down by panting.
- Are overweight or belong to a large breed.
- Have long or thick fur.
- Are a breed with breathing issues, including bulldogs, pugs, boxers, Boston terriers or Persian cats.
- Have health problems affecting their heart, lungs or windpipe.
What are signs of heat stroke for dogs?
Heat stroke in pets is a serious and life-threatening emergency, the state health department said.
If not treated right away, heat stroke “can lead to organ damage or death if not treated quickly.”
Signs of heat stroke in dogs include:
- Heavy panting
- Drooling
- Rapid breathing
- Dry or sticky gums
- Very hot skin
- Higher-than-normal heart rate
- Seizures
- Lethargic or disoriented appearance
When should I take my pet to the vet?
If you think your pet has heat stroke, the state health department said to:
- Call your vet or go to an emergency animal clinic right away.
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded area.
- Gently wet their head, paws, belly and ears with cool (not cold) water.
- Keep air flowing around them with a fan, open window or AC while you head to the vet.
How can I tell if it’s too hot to walk my dog?
The ideal weather for walking or playing with your dog outdoors is around 70 degrees, according to the American Kennel Club.
When it’s 85 degrees or higher, taking your dog out can be risky, the national nonprofit organization said.
“Pavement, like asphalt or artificial grass, can become incredibly hot and cause discomfort, blisters and burn a dog’s paw pads,” said Jerry Klein, an expert in veterinary emergency and critical care at the American Kennel Club.
When air temperature reaches 86 degrees, asphalt can heat up to 135 degrees, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association.
“To find out if the ground is too hot for your dog to walk on, place your hand comfortably on the pavement for 10 seconds,” Klein said. “If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.”
Can dogs wear shoes to beat the heat?
Dogs typically walk barefoot outdoors, so hot pavement can burn their paws and lead to overheating.
“Dog shoes or all-terrain boots offer protection from hot surfaces, but many dogs need time to adjust to wearing them before the first outing,” the American Kennel Club said.
What are best times to walk your dog during a heat wave?
During a heat wave, the American Kennel Club said, walk your dog early in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler and pavement is less likely to burn their paws.
The organization said tyou should stick to grassy or shaded paths whenever possible to help keep dogs comfortable and safe.
Tips to keep your dog safe in hot weather
Here are other tips for keeping your dog safe outdoors during hot weather:
- Never leave dogs in a parked car.
- Give them fresh water daily.
- Take breaks in the shade and bring water.
- Bring dogs inside.
- Do not shave your dog’s coat, because it helps protect them from sunburn and insulates them from heat.
This story was originally published May 30, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the headline "How hot is too hot to walk your dog in California? What to know as high temps hit."
