Always be aware of the temps outside for the sake of your pups paws. We have to remember that the pavement can get extremely hot, much hotter than the air. Black asphalt pavement and concrete surfaces can be over 50 degrees hotter than the temp outside, meaning the pavement on an 87 degree day can be almost 143 degrees! Standing on a road that hot can burn your pups paws within a minute, and walking can be extremely uncomfortable and dangerous for them.
If you are unsure about the temp of the ground you are walking on, a laser temp gun can be used to see the temp or you can simply test the road with the back of your hand. If you hold your hand for 10 seconds or less and it burns or is uncomfortable for you, then it will likely hurt your dog as well. If the temp outside is over 76 degrees, the ground temp should be considered.
On hot days it is a better idea to walk your pup earlier in the morning or later in the day when the temps are cooler to avoid paw injury. However if you do need to walk during the day, try to walk on the grass or dirt where the ground is much cooler or in a shady area.
Another option would be to have socks or shoes to protect their paws from hot gound. You should give your dog time to get used to shoes or boots before taking them outside. It could be awkward for them at first but can help them in the future if you have to walk them during these hot conditions.
Always have water and always consider the ground temp when walking your pups in the heat!
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