Blog Summer Dog Walking Tips

With hot weather in full swing, you need to ensure that your dog doesn’t overheat, which can be especially challenging if you have an active dog that loves the outdoors. Even taking your dog for a regular walk can pose a challenge in the summer. We’ve gathered the top summer dog walking tips to protect your pooch while you enjoy getting active together.

Choose the Right Time of the Day 

The best time to walk your dog in summer is when the sun is not at its peak. So, do your best to take your fur baby for a walk early in the morning or later in the evening. By doing so, you avoid the times of the day when it is too hot to walk your dog. This is especially important to remember if your furry friend has dark fur. 

Stick to the Shade

When you walk your dog in hot weather, do your best to stay in the shade. Strolling down the street under trees or near tall buildings is ideal. Of course, doing this at noontime will be counterproductive. After all, there will be almost no shade if the sun is directly overhead. 

Stay Away From Hot Surfaces

Exposing your dog to too much sun is not your only concern in the summer. You also have to watch your furry friend’s paws. Dogs’ entire bodies are closer to the ground, so they feel more heat from hot surfaces. On top of that, their paws are very sensitive. If you can’t comfortably rest your hand on the sidewalk, your dog also shouldn’t walk on it without booties. 

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

As you and your dog get active, make sure your furry friend stays hydrated. Bring a water bottle with a bowl for him to drink out of. You can even use doggy water bottles with attached bowls or drinking receptacles. 

Adjust Your Pace or Activity Level

Don’t assume that your canine companion will be able to participate in the same dog activities he enjoys in cooler weather. His pace would also change significantly in hot weather. As you do your activities, take your pace and intensity down a notch. A slow and steady walk would even enable your dog to enjoy the smells and sights without rushing. 

Let Him Pause

Most importantly, heed your dog’s cues, especially if he needs to pause. Even an active dog will need breaks in the hot weather. Maybe look for a dog-friendly West Palm Beach restaurant where you can cool down together before continuing the walk. 

Get Creative

If it’s too hot to walk your dog who has a lot of energy to burn, get creative. Run around inside your house with the air conditioning turned on, or play with your furry friend by having him do tricks and giving treats in a cool indoor space. 

Make Sure Those Caring for Your Dog Know Summer Safety Tips

If you ever hire a dog walker or leave your pup at a dog daycare in West Palm Beach, make sure they are familiar with all the dog safety tips on this list. The best dog care facilities will be equipped for this and will have fun dog activities like swimming to keep them cool. 

Take Extra Care of Your Flat-Faced Dog 

Dog weather safety tips are important for all pooches, especially those with flat faces. French Bulldogs, Pugs, English Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers are some breeds with cute pushed-in noses, which may lead to issues with breathing. Their difficulty in breathing may make it even harder to stay cool. Knowing this will help you take extra care that they don’t overheat.

Learn to Recognize Signs of Heat-related Issues

Make dog weather safety a priority and learn to recognize the signs of heat-related issues. Be on the lookout for the following signs in your dog: 

• Panting rapidly
• Drooling excessively
• Walking more slowly
• Seeking shade
• Trying to lie down

If you miss these signs, your dog may progress further to heat stroke, which will lead to the following symptoms: 

• • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Blue, bright red, or pale gums
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Bruising
  • Abnormal bleeding
• Seizures 

Be Prepared to Bring Your Dog’s Temperature Down, If Necessary 

If you notice any early signs of heat problems in your dog, head to a shady area and give plenty of water. A dog pool may even be a fun option to cool down your dog. Just make sure to keep an eye on your fur baby, as he may not swim normally if he’s feeling overheated. If you don’t have a dog pool, you can also use a hose or damp towel. 

When to See the Vet

If your dog progresses to the second set of symptoms, like difficulty breathing, bring him to the vet as soon as possible. 

Conclusion – Summer Dog Walking Tips

Walking a dog in hot weather entails slowing down your pace, sticking to a shaded area, staying hydrated, and avoiding staying out in the middle of the day. If you are concerned about leaving your furry friend at doggie daycare in the summer, a facility like Very Important Paws in West Palm Beach will be equipped to keep your dog active, happy, and cool. 

With the above summer dog walking tips in mind, you and your canine companion can happily enjoy being active even in the summer. 

Sources:

https://www.petmd.com/dog/slideshows/7-summer-dog-walking-tips-you-should-keep-mind#slide-1

https://dogsbestlife.com/dog-training/summer-dog-walking-tips/?cn-reloaded=1

https://www.rover.com/blog/summer-safety-protect-your-dog-as-the-temperature-rises/