Hot Weather Hiking: How To Keep Your Dog Safe

Hiking with your dog is a good way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise, but warm weather presents risks like sun exposure, heat stroke, and dehydration. Dogs can’t tell us when they’re overheating, so pet parents need to know the warning signs and what precautions will keep their pups safe out on the trails in the hot weather.

How Hot is Too Hot to Hike with Your Dog?

There’s no universal cutoff temperature, and it really depends on the dog. Large, overweight, double-coated, flat-faced, or elderly dogs are at higher risk of overheating. If that sounds like your dog, monitor them closely and never push them too hard.

Temperature Guidelines for Safe Hiking

• Below 70˚F: Safe for most dogs.

• 70˚F to 80˚F: Generally safe for fit dogs with proper precautions.

• 80˚F to 90˚F: High risk—hike only with careful planning.

• Above 90˚F: Too dangerous—choose another activity.

Choosing the Right Time and Trail

A little planning makes a big difference in creating safe, enjoyable hiking conditions for you and your dog. Choosing the right time of day and a shaded trail can greatly improve your experience and prevent the risk of heatstroke.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

Hike in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler and UV exposure is lowest. Just make sure your trails are open and that there’s enough light for visibility.

Pick a Shaded Trail

Use trail maps, apps, and satellite views (AllTrails, Gaia GPS, Google Maps) to identify the most shaded trails based on how dense the tree cover appears. If it’s hard to tell, read reviews and look for mention of shade. Word of mouth is powerful, too, so ask around in your community.

Heat Stroke and Sunburn

The challenges that dogs face in the sun and heat are very similar to what we face as humans. 

Can Dogs Get Sunburn?

Yes, dogs can get sunburn. Short-haired breeds are the most prone. Look out for redness, dryness, peeling, cracking, and signs of discomfort.

If your dog gets sunburned, get out of the sun immediately. Move to the shade, let them rest, and apply a cool compress. Call your vet to update them on the situation and ask if you should head in for further treatment. For extra protection, apply dog-safe sunscreen to susceptible areas like their snout, face, and underbelly.

Protecting Paws from Burns

Paws can burn from the heat of the ground. If you can’t hold your hand on the trail for 5-10 seconds comfortably, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Expect rock, sand, gravel, and paved trails to hold onto heat more than dirt trails.

Watch for signs of discomfort like rapid paw lifting or reluctance to contact the ground. Paw boots can be a good option if your dog tolerates them well.

Signs of Overheating and What to Do

Even when you’re taking all of these precautions, it’s still important to watch for signs of overheating in your dog during a hike.

Early signs include excessive or labored panting, thick drool, darker or redder gums, and sluggishness. If you notice anything off, stop in a shaded area, offer them water (but don’t force it), and pat cool water on their ears, paws, belly, and armpits.

Cooling Aids

Additionally, a cooling towel can help lower your dog’s body temperature quickly. Choose a cooling towel that’s effective, lightweight, and machine washable. A trusted and long-standing recommendation is actually made for humans, the Frogg Toggs® Chilly Pad® Cooling Towel, but it’s great for dogs too.

Emergency Signs

Severe signs like vomiting, collapsing, confusion, difficulty breathing, or seizures require immediate action. Get off the trail, cool them down, and head straight to an emergency vet. Even if they seem better, they could experience internal damage requiring urgent medical attention. Don’t push your dog to the point where severe signs are even close to occurring. If you monitor your dog throughout the hike, you’ll likely notice mild signs first.

Take regular breaks to check in, just as you would with a hiking partner. Use this quick reference guide to monitor your dog, and take breaks for a closer check-in.

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

Dogs rely on panting to regulate their body temperature, but it can dry out their mouth and lead to dehydration. Offer small amounts of water frequently. Chugging water and large gulps can lead to bloating, discomfort, and vomiting.

How Much Water Does Your Dog Need?

When hiking in the heat, plan for 0.5 to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per hour. For example, a 50-pound dog needs 25-50 ounces of water per hour on the trail. Don’t forget a way for them to drink. This collapsible silicone bowl and this cinch-top canvas option from Wilderdog are good options.

Final Decisions

Hiking is an awesome way to get out into nature with your dog for some exercise and fun, and with these considerations you should be all set for a great day outside:

• Assessing their heat tolerance based on breed, age, and fitness.

• Choosing a shaded, dog-friendly trail.

• Hiking during cooler hours.

• Watching for signs of overheating.

• Taking regular shade and hydration breaks.

• Packing water, a bowl, and a cooling towel.

• Having a vet plan in case of emergency.

What If It’s Too Hot to Hike?

Remember, if it’s too hot, there are other options for keeping your dog active and stimulated. Play games with your dog like one of these interactive food puzzles or work on training and drills. Your dog’s well-being is in your hands, so use this guide to keep them safe and happy.

Meta Description: Planning a summer hike with your dog? Learn how to keep your pup cool, prevent overheating, and make the most of the season on the trails.