Tips For Walking Your Dog During a Florida Summer

Living in Sarasota means enjoying beautiful weather nearly year-round, but from late spring
through early fall, our combination of heat and humidity requires us to rethink our daily walking
routine.

Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help keep your dog comfortable and safe all summer
long.

It’s Not Just the Temperature—It’s the Humidity

Many pet owners watch the thermometer, but humidity is just as important.

Dogs cool themselves by panting, and when the air is humid, that process becomes much less
effective. Even temperatures in the low-to-mid 80s can become dangerous when paired with
Florida’s high humidity.

Walk Early—or Wait Until After Sunset

During the summer, the safest times to exercise your dog are:

● Early morning, shortly after sunrise
● Later in the evening, after the sun has gone down

Avoid walks during the hottest part of the day whenever possible.

Protect Your Dog’s Paw Pads

Florida sidewalks, asphalt, and parking lots can become significantly hotter than the surrounding air.

Before every walk, perform the “7-Second Test.”

Place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Whenever possible, choose grassy routes or shaded trails instead.

Bring Water Every Time

Even shorter walks can lead to dehydration during a Florida summer.

Carry fresh water for your dog and offer frequent opportunities to drink, especially on longer
outings.

Pay Attention to Your Dog

Your dog will often tell you they’re getting too hot before they develop heat stroke.

Head home if you notice:

● Heavy panting
● Excessive drooling
● Slowing down
● Walking behind you
● Seeking shade
● Lying down unexpectedly
● Refusing to continue

Never force your dog to finish the walk.

Some Dogs Need Even More Caution

Extra care should be taken with:

● Brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, ShihTzus, Boxers, Pekinese, etc.)
● Puppies
● Senior dogs
● Overweight pets
● Dogs with heart or respiratory disease

**A Note On Brachycephalic (flat-faced) Breeds: Because these dogs often have narrowed
nostrils, elongated soft palates, and other airway abnormalities, they cannot move enough air to
cool themselves efficiently. A walk that feels comfortable for you may be dangerous for them.

For many brachycephalic dogs, even a short walk in the Florida heat can lead to overheating.
Air-conditioned indoor activity is often the safest option during the hottest months of the year.

Indoor Activities Count Too

Remember, physical exercise isn’t the only way to keep your dog happy.

On especially hot or humid days, try:

● Food puzzle toys
● Nose work and scent games
● Short obedience sessions
● Trick training
● Indoor fetch or tug games

Mental exercise can be just as tiring—and much safer—than a long afternoon walk.

When in Doubt, Skip the Walk

One missed walk won’t harm your dog, but heat stroke certainly can.

If conditions feel uncomfortable for you, they’re likely even more challenging for your pet.
Choosing an indoor activity for the day is often the healthiest decision you can make.

A little extra caution during Florida’s hottest months goes a long way toward keeping your dog
healthy, happy, and enjoying many summers to come.

Want to learn how to recognize the early signs of heat stroke? Be sure to read our companion
article, “Heat Stroke in Dogs: A Florida Pet Owner’s Guide to Recognizing the Signs.”

References

1. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Summer Heat Safety Tips for Dogs.
   Available at:
   https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-cente
   r/canine-health-topics/summer-heat-safety-tips-dogs
2. American Veterinary Medical Association. Warm Weather Pet Safety. Available at:
   https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/warm-weather-pet-safety
3. American Kennel Club. How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Hot Weather. Available at:
   https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/hot-weather-safety-tips-for-dogs/
4. American Animal Hospital Association. Summer Safety Tips for Pets. Available at:
   https://www.aaha.org/resources/2024-summer-safety-tips-for-pets/