Longer days and brighter evenings make summer a lovely time to enjoy more outdoor adventures with your dog or cat. Whether you are heading to the park, exploring a woodland trail or simply pottering around the garden, a little preparation can help keep your pet comfortable when temperatures rise.
Dogs and cats cannot tell us when the weather is becoming too much for them, so it is important to watch their behaviour, choose suitable walking times and carry everything they may need.
Choose Cooler Times for Outdoor Adventures
During warmer weather, early mornings and later evenings are usually more comfortable for walks. The middle of the day can quickly become too hot, even when the temperature did not seem particularly high when you left home.
Dogs with thick coats, flat faces, health conditions or shorter legs may find warm weather more difficult. Puppies, older dogs and very small breeds may also tire more quickly.
Cats exploring on a harness can be affected too. They may spend more time close to warm paving or sheltered areas where heat builds up, so keep their first summer outings short and relaxed.
There is no need to complete a long walk simply because you planned one. A shorter sniff around, followed by some garden time or indoor enrichment, can be just as enjoyable.
Check the Ground Before Setting Off
Pavements, patios and artificial grass can become much warmer than the surrounding air. Before allowing your pet to walk across a surface, place the back of your hand against it for several seconds.
If it feels uncomfortably hot to you, choose a shaded route, walk on natural grass or postpone the outing until the ground has cooled.
Even in the UK, we can occasionally have unexpectedly warm days, and surfaces can retain heat after the strongest sunshine has passed.
Make Sure Their Harness Fits Correctly
A well-fitting harness should feel secure without restricting normal movement or rubbing underneath the legs.
Check the fit regularly, particularly if your dog or cat:
- Is still growing
- Has recently gained or lost weight
- Has a thick or changing coat
- Has not worn the harness for a while
You should normally be able to fit approximately two fingers between the harness and your pet, although the exact fit will depend on the design and your pet’s shape.
Pipkin and Bella adjustable dog harnesses can be adjusted around both the neck and chest. Our cat harnesses have adjustable neck straps and an adjustable chest, helping you create a more secure fit for cats of different shapes.
Always attach a lead or seat belt to the harness rather than your pet’s collar. This avoids placing sudden pressure around the neck.
Pack Water for Longer Walks
Take fresh water when you are heading further than your usual local route. A portable bowl or dog water bottle can be useful when visiting parks, beaches and countryside locations.
Offer small drinks during the walk rather than waiting until your pet appears very thirsty.
Try not to rely on outdoor water sources. Puddles, ponds and streams may contain bacteria, algae, chemicals or other substances that are not safe for pets to drink.
Take Regular Breaks
Summer walks do not need to be rushed. Stop in a shaded area and give your pet time to rest, drink and take in their surroundings.
A walking bag can make it easier to carry:
- Water and a portable bowl
- Treats
- Poop bags
- Your phone and keys
- Cooling accessories like a bandana that can be soaked in water
- Any medication your pet may require
Our Pipkin and Bella walking bags include inner and outer zipped pockets, along with a handy built-in poop bag dispenser. Treat pouches can also be attached or carried separately for easy access during training and walks.
Watch for Changes in Behaviour
Your pet may be becoming uncomfortable if they slow down, repeatedly stop, seek shade or appear reluctant to continue.
Dogs may pant more heavily when they are warm, but excessive panting, unusual drooling, weakness, confusion, vomiting or collapse require urgent attention.
Cats may become restless, breathe more quickly, groom excessively or try to hide when they are uncomfortable.
Move your pet into a cooler area and contact a vet promptly if you are concerned about their condition.
Do Not Leave Pets in Parked Cars
A parked vehicle can become dangerously hot very quickly, even when the weather feels mild, a window has been left open or the car is parked in the shade.
Plan journeys so your pet can come with you when you leave the vehicle, or have another responsible adult remain with them in a safe, ventilated environment.
Create Cooler Activities at Home
Not every summer day needs to include a walk. On warmer days, you could try:
- Short training sessions indoors
- Treat-searching games
- Snuffle mats
- Puzzle feeders
- Gentle grooming
- Supervised garden time in the shade
- Practising calm harness and lead walking at home
Mental enrichment can be tiring and rewarding without asking your pet to exercise in uncomfortable weather.
A Little Planning Makes Summer More Enjoyable
Summer adventures should be fun, not something your dog or cat has to struggle through.
Choosing cooler times, checking the ground, carrying water and watching your pet’s behaviour can make a big difference. A secure, comfortable harness and a well-packed walking bag can also help make every outing easier.
Whether your adventure takes you around the block or along a woodland trail, let your pet set the pace and enjoy the extra daylight together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature is too hot to walk a dog?
There is no single temperature that is suitable for every dog. Breed, age, coat, health, humidity, route and walking surface all make a difference. When conditions feel warm, choose the coolest part of the day, shorten the walk and watch your dog carefully.
Can I walk my cat in warm weather?
Yes, provided your cat is comfortable wearing a harness and the conditions are suitable. Choose a shaded area, avoid hot surfaces and keep the outing short. Cats should always be supervised outdoors while wearing a harness and lead.
How can I tell whether the pavement is too hot?
Place the back of your hand against the surface for several seconds. If it is uncomfortable for your hand, it may also be uncomfortable for your pet’s paws.
Should I give my dog water during a walk?
Carry fresh water on longer walks and during warmer weather. Offer small drinks during breaks, particularly if your dog is panting or exercising more than usual.
Can a dog wear a harness all day?
Harnesses are intended for walks, travel and supervised activities. Removing the harness at home gives your dog’s skin and coat a break and allows you to check for rubbing, knots or irritation.
How tight should a dog or cat harness be?
It should be secure but not restrictive. You should generally be able to slide approximately two fingers underneath it. Check that it cannot slip over the head and that it is not rubbing behind the front legs.
Should a car seat belt attach to a collar or harness?
A pet seat belt should be attached to a suitable harness, never directly to a collar. Sudden movement or braking could otherwise place dangerous pressure on the neck.
What can I do instead of walking my dog on a hot day?
Try indoor training, scent games, puzzle feeders, treat searches or supervised time in a shaded garden. Missing or shortening one walk is safer than exercising your dog when conditions are unsuitable.
