How Hot Is Too Hot for Your Dog?

Sun’s out, tongues out - but when does summer heat cross the line from fun to risky for your dog?

Spoiler: it happens faster than you think.

Dogs don’t sweat like we do. Their cooling system relies mostly on panting, and when the temperature rises (especially with humidity), their body has a much harder time keeping up. That’s why heatstroke in dogs can happen quickly - and often silently.

Here’s what every dog parent needs to know to keep their pup safe in the heat.

1. Why Dogs Overheat More Easily Than Humans

Dogs regulate their body temperature primarily through panting and minor sweating through their paw pads — both much less efficient than human sweating.

That means they're especially vulnerable when:

• Air temps are high

• Humidity is elevated

• They’re walking on heat-retaining surfaces like asphalt

Humidity is an often overlooked risk factor. When the air is moist, panting becomes ineffective, and internal temperature can rise fast. This is how dogs can overheat even on seemingly "moderate" days.

2. Temperature Risk Guide

Every dog is different, but here’s a helpful rule of thumb:

• Below 20°C - Safe for most dogs

• 20–24°C - Use caution with flat-faced breeds, overweight, or senior dogs

• 25–28°C - Risk increases, especially on pavement or in full sun

• 28°C+ - Dangerous territory; consider skipping the walk

• 32°C+ - Extreme risk of heatstroke - only walk at dawn or after sunset, if at all

Pavement Warning:Even at 25–30°C air temp, pavement can reach 50–60°C - hot enough to cause burns in seconds.Quick test: press the back of your hand to the ground for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.

3. Humidity = High Risk

Research shows dogs’ heat production peaks in the evening, and their thermoneutral zone (the temp where they don’t need to cool themselves) tops out around 25°C.Add humidity, and their main cooling method - panting - becomes almost useless. That’s why a 26°C humid day can be riskier than a dry 30°C day.

4. Some Dogs Are More Vulnerable Than Others

Heat affects dogs differently. Those at higher risk include:

• Flat-faced breeds (French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers)

• Overweight dogs - reduced heat tolerance and airflow

• Senior dogs – often with less cardiovascular or respiratory strength

• Thick-coated or cold-weather breeds (Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs)

These dogs need extra caution even at 22–24°C, especially on humid or sunny days.

5. Early Signs of Overheating

Know what to watch for:

• Rapid or excessive panting

• Bright red or purple gums

• Vomiting or drooling

• Disorientation or wobbling

• Weakness or collapse

What to do: Move your dog to shade or a cool place immediately, offer water, and call your vet. Avoid ice baths - cooling should be gentle and steady.

Practical Summer Safety Tips

• Walk early (before 8 a.m.) or late (after 8 p.m.)

• Stay on grass or shaded paths

• Bring water + a collapsible bowl

• Avoid muzzles that limit panting

• Use cooling vests or mats

• Never leave your dog in a parked car - even for “just a minute”

Final Insight

Even "comfortable" temps can become dangerous fast - especially for dogs with lower heat tolerance.What’s fine for a young, lean Border Collie might be risky for a senior Frenchie on a humid afternoon.

Bottom line: don’t go by the forecast alone. Go by your dog. And when in doubt? Skip the walk, stay inside, or reach out to your vet.

Your dog won’t miss the walk - but they’ll definitely thank you for the cool, safe choice.