Summer days bring sunshine, outdoor adventures, and long walks—but they also bring scorching surfaces that can pose a serious danger to your dog’s paws. While we wear shoes to protect our feet, dogs walk barefoot, and hot asphalt, pavement, or concrete can easily cause painful and even dangerous paw burns. These injuries are more common than many pet owners realize and can lead to discomfort, infection, or long-term damage if not prevented.
In this article, you’ll learn how to protect your dog from hot surface burns, how to recognize the signs of paw damage, and what to do if your dog gets injured. With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy summer safely with your furry friend by your side.
1. Understand How Hot Surfaces Affect Dog Paws
On a sunny day, asphalt and pavement heat up quickly. What feels warm to your hand can be dangerously hot for a dog’s sensitive paw pads. The surface temperature can reach 125°F (52°C) or more even when the air temperature is just 77°F (25°C). At that level, skin can begin to burn in just 60 seconds.
Dogs’ paw pads are tough but not heat-proof. Unlike our shoes, their paws are in direct contact with the ground, and exposure to hot surfaces can result in:
✔ Redness, swelling, or blisters
✔ Cracks or peeling skin on the paws
✔ Limping, licking, or refusal to walk
✔ Open sores or signs of pain when touched
Being aware of how quickly surfaces heat up helps you make smarter decisions about where and when to walk.
2. Follow the “5-Second Rule” Before Walks
A simple way to check if the ground is too hot for your dog is by using the 5-second rule:
✔ Place the back of your hand or bare foot on the pavement
✔ If you can’t hold it there for at least five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws
This quick test can help you avoid painful mistakes and is especially useful during peak summer months. Try it before every walk, even if the air doesn’t feel overly hot—pavement stores heat and can remain dangerously warm well into the evening.
3. Walk During Cooler Times of Day
One of the best ways to prevent paw burns is by adjusting your walking schedule to early morning or late evening, when the ground is cooler. Avoid walking your dog between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is strongest and pavement temperatures peak.
✔ Aim for sunrise or after sunset walks
✔ Stick to shaded routes when possible
✔ Plan shorter walks if the weather is particularly hot
✔ Bring water and rest frequently to prevent overheating
Your dog’s paws—and entire body—will thank you for walking during more comfortable hours.
4. Stick to Grass, Dirt, or Shaded Paths
When the ground is too hot, look for natural surfaces like grass, dirt trails, or shaded park paths. These areas stay much cooler than asphalt or concrete and are gentler on your dog’s paws.
✔ Walk in grassy parks or along wooded trails
✔ Let your dog walk on the grass beside the sidewalk
✔ Avoid dark asphalt, which absorbs more heat than light-colored surfaces
✔ Use your own steps to test and feel the path before letting your dog walk ahead
Whenever possible, choose routes that prioritize your dog’s comfort and safety, not just convenience.
5. Consider Dog Booties for Extra Protection
Dog booties aren’t just for snow—they can also protect your dog’s paws from hot surfaces, sharp debris, and rough terrain. High-quality summer booties are made of breathable materials with protective soles that shield paws from heat and friction.
✔ Introduce booties slowly at home so your dog gets used to them
✔ Make sure they fit properly—too loose and they fall off, too tight and they’re uncomfortable
✔ Use booties only during the walk, and remove them once inside
✔ Clean the booties regularly to prevent dirt and bacteria buildup
Some dogs may take time to adjust to wearing them, but they can make a huge difference in hot weather.
6. Keep Paw Pads Healthy and Moisturized
Healthy paws are more resistant to injury. Dry, cracked paw pads are more likely to burn or become irritated on hot surfaces.
✔ Apply a paw balm or wax regularly to keep pads soft and moisturized
✔ Avoid over-trimming paw fur, which provides some natural insulation
✔ Keep nails short to promote healthy walking posture
✔ Check paws after each walk for any signs of damage, debris, or irritation
Preventive paw care is just as important as protecting from immediate heat. It supports long-term paw health all year round.
7. Watch for Signs of Paw Injury
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. It’s important to recognize the early signs of a paw burn or injury, so you can respond quickly and avoid complications.
Look for:
✔ Limping or favoring one paw
✔ Excessive licking or chewing at the feet
✔ Visible redness, blisters, or cracked skin
✔ Your dog refusing to walk or pulling away when paws are touched
✔ Whining or distress during walks
If you notice any of these signs:
✔ Gently clean the paws with cool water (not ice-cold)
✔ Avoid walking until your dog has healed
✔ Apply pet-safe ointment or balm
✔ Contact your vet for severe burns or open wounds
Prompt treatment helps avoid infection and supports faster recovery.
8. Stay Aware in Other Hot Environments
Pavement isn’t the only surface that gets hot in summer. Be cautious of:
✔ Metal grates and manhole covers
✔ Decks and boat docks
✔ Playground equipment or outdoor furniture
✔ Sandy beaches under full sun
Always check the surface temperature before allowing your dog to walk or lie down on unfamiliar outdoor surfaces. If in doubt—test it yourself first.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your dog’s paws safe during hot weather is a simple but essential part of summer care. A little awareness goes a long way in preventing pain, injury, and unnecessary trips to the vet.
✔ Avoid hot surfaces during the warmest parts of the day
✔ Use the 5-second rule to check ground temperature
✔ Stick to cool, shaded, or grassy paths
✔ Consider dog booties and moisturizing balms for extra protection
✔ Watch for signs of discomfort and act quickly if problems arise
Your dog trusts you to protect them—and something as simple as choosing the right walking time or checking the pavement can make all the difference. Summer is a time for wagging tails, fun adventures, and happy paws—so let’s keep it that way.