Hot pavement: protecting your dog's paws in summer
On a sunny day, the air temperature can feel bearable while the pavement soaks up heat and climbs far higher. Measurements of urban surface temperatures regularly show gaps of several dozen degrees between the air and sun-exposed asphalt (research on Google Scholar): at 30 °C in the shade, tarmac can top 50 °C. At that temperature, a dog's paw pads can burn in under a minute. Find our other outing tips in the travel and safety section.
The seven-second test
Before heading out, press the back of your hand flat on the ground for seven seconds. If you cannot keep it there comfortably, it is too hot for your dog's paws. This simple test works for asphalt, but also for sand, metal walkways and reflective light-coloured concrete.
Recognising a pad burn
A dog that limps, licks its paws insistently, refuses to walk on or lifts its pads one after another may have been burned. The pads may look red, darker, blistered or show flaps of skin. If in doubt, rinse with cool water and see a vet: a pad burn is painful and infects easily.
Adjusting walks
Walk early in the morning or late in the evening, when the ground has cooled, and favour shaded grass and dirt paths. For unavoidable stretches on pavement, boots protect effectively, provided the dog is introduced to them gradually. This care adds to other summer precautions, notably watching for the grass awns that thrive in the same season.
Frequently asked questions
Are small breeds more exposed?
They are closer to the ground and catch more reflected heat, but all dogs are concerned, whatever their size.
Are boots really useful?
Yes for unavoidable urban walks, as long as they fit well and are introduced gradually so the dog accepts them.
Does paw balm protect against heat?
No, it moisturises and toughens the pad but does not protect against a burn: only adjusting timing and route works.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Dogs universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.