Can Dogs Walk on Hot Pavement?

If the pavement feels too hot for you to comfortably keep your hand placed on it for more than 10 seconds, it’s highly likely that the pavement is unbearable for your dog too. Taking your dog out for every walk down the store may be tempting, but it can make your pooch a victim of severe burns to the paws. 

So, make sure you follow our safety advice when it comes to walking your dog on hot summer days. Even if it’s breezy and the temperature doesn’t seem super hot (perhaps around 77°F), it’s still risky business to run down the road bare feet, right? That’s exactly how your dog will feel. 

Understanding the Dog’s Paw Anatomy

A dog’s paw is usually covered with fur but there are portions on them, called paw pads that do not have fur, and hence, are sensitive to heat. Paw pads are made up of fat and thick skin, and have connective tissue. Each paw has five paw pads that help the dogs with shock absorption and traction. The paw pads, however, are exactly where they get their share of paw burns.   

Knowing When to Take Precautions is Crucial

When it’s possible for a pavement to air-fry an egg on a hot summer afternoon, what makes you think your dog’s little paw isn’t vulnerable? It’s also important to know that there’s a major temperature difference between the air and pavement – the asphalt tends to absorb more heat. Just remember to apply the 10 seconds rule (if you can’t keep your hand placed for more than 10 seconds, it’s too hot for your pooch) right before you plan to step out with your pooch.

Here’s How to Walk Your Dog in Summer Whilst Preventing Burns

Dog Shoes

The most effective and fool-proof way to continue going for those walks on hot days is by getting a pair of dog shoes for your fur baby. Dog shoes, dog socks, and booties may seem like overkill at first but it’s exactly what your dog needs! 

Before you go out for a walk, put foot coverings on your dog’s paws inside the house. Let your dog get comfortable with it. If they seem uncomfortable, try getting booties for your dog and give it the time to get comfortable with them.

Paw Wax

You can simply apply this special wax on your dog’s paws before stepping out — a good alternative to dog shoes. It will provide your pooch with a layer of protection against heat. Most paw waxes only need to be applied once a week and that’s about it. 

If you have some DIY solution as an alternative to dog shoes, apply paw wax first and then make them wear the DIY thing you’ve created — it’ll add an extra barrier of protection. 

Carry an Umbrella With You

While carrying an umbrella may seem pointless (because it’s the pavement you need to save your pooch from), it actually is a big help! The little shade you can provide them with an umbrella will assist them to balance their body temperatures. If you have a hairless dog, the little bit of shade will be of massive help. It is important to note here that whether you take an umbrella or not, make sure you’ve got your dog’s feet covered with either shoes or wax.

Go for a Walk Earlier in the Day

The pavements are relatively less warm when the sun is fresh, so it’s best for you to take them out during early bird hours.

Play in a Grassy Yard

Even if you’re taking all the precautions and depending on where you live, the pavement may still feel hot to your dog. So instead of walking your dog on pavement, go for a walk on a grassy field.