Summer sun can be tough on our pups — sometimes even dangerously so. When temperatures spike, knowing when it’s safe for your dog to be outside is essential for preventing heat-related illness.
Here’s how to tell when it’s too hot for your dog, what warning signs to watch for and how to keep your pup cool all season long.
So… How Hot Is Too Hot for Dogs?
Every dog handles heat differently, but one general rule always applies:
If it feels too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for your dog.
While there isn’t a single “danger number” that applies to every pup, here are some helpful guidelines:
- 90°F and above: Avoid being outdoors — this range becomes dangerous very quickly.
- 80–90°F: Limit the time spent outside and keep your dog shaded, hydrated and supervised.
- Always trust your instincts: If stepping outside feels unbearable, skip the long walk or dog park trip.
Why Hot Temperatures Are Risky for Dogs
Dogs don’t cool their bodies the same way humans do. They can only sweat through their paw pads, and panting is their main way of releasing heat. When the weather is too hot, panting alone simply isn’t enough.
This can lead to serious heat-related illnesses, including:
- Heat cramps
- Heat exhaustion
- Heatstroke — a life-threatening condition where a dog’s internal temperature rises above 105.8°F and can cause seizures, collapse, coma or brain damage.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs
Watch your pup closely when temperatures climb. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your dog out of the heat immediately:
- Hot or flushed skin
- Heavy or rapid panting
- Disorientation or wobbliness
- Bright red gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
Move your dog into shade or indoors, offer cool (not ice-cold) water and use a hose or wet towel to help lower his temperature.
If he doesn’t improve quickly, head straight to a vet or emergency clinic.
Which Dogs Are at Higher Risk?
Any dog can suffer from heat-related illnesses, but some are more vulnerable:
- Overweight dogs
- Dogs with heart or respiratory disease
- Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, boxers, etc.)
- Dogs exercising in extreme heat
- Dogs without access to shade or water
- Dogs kept in poorly ventilated areas
Always err on the side of caution — prevention is easier than treatment.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Hot Weather
Here are the best ways to protect your pup when the temperatures rise:
- Walk your dog early in the morning or after sunset
- Avoid vigorous play during the hottest hours
- Always provide shade and fresh water
- Keep your dog indoors with air conditioning or good ventilation
- Never leave your dog in a car, not even for a quick errand — cars heat up to dangerous temperatures in minutes
Leaving a dog in a car is one of the most common and most preventable causes of heatstroke.
Keeping Your Dog Cool on Walks
Even on hot days, dogs still need bathroom breaks. If you must walk when it’s hot:
- Consider a dog cooling vest to help regulate temperature
- Use paw protection like Musher’s Secret to shield paw pads from hot pavement
- Bring a portable water bottle for frequent water breaks
- Let your dog relax afterward on a cooling mat to help him recover faster
The Bottom Line
If you’re asking yourself, “Is it too hot for my dog?” —
it probably is.
Keep outdoor time short, avoid the hottest hours of the day and use cooling products to help your pup stay safe and comfortable. A little caution goes a long way in protecting your best friend from heat-related emergencies.
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