Dog expert shares 'seven second rule' to check it's safe to walk your dog on hot days

As temperatures continue to rise in the wake of the heatwave, experts have shared a simple, seven second “rule” to follow to check whether it’s safe to walk your dog. Summer brings with it lots of positives - longer, lighter days; warmer weather; typically less rain; blossoming flora and fauna, and more.

It’s not without its downsides, though. The sweltering heat can be a struggle for many people, especially in a country where airconditioning isn’t particularly prolific, and this can be a source of concern for pet owners.

All dogs need consistent exercise and, for many people, this comes in the form of daily walks. In a heatwave though, there’s a serious risk of your dog suffering from heatstroke.

According to one expert, even 22°C can be dangerous for dogs - they can and do suffer from heatstroke “even on days that feel comfortable to us ” - and it can often be fatal.

According to emergency care data published in Veterinary Record, more than a quarter of dogs who were treated for heatstroke in 2022 died.

The study discovered many dogs died outside official heatwaves, going on to collapse on a routine walk.

Simon Crawshaw, grain-free dog food specialist at Hilltop Pet Food, said: “Even at 22 or 23 degrees, if the sun’s been beating down all day, pavements can reach temperatures that will burn your dog’s paws in seconds.

“Dogs won’t tell you when they’re struggling; they’ll just keep walking, because that’s what you’re asking them to do. But once they overheat, things can go downhill very quickly.”

Sadly, many dog owners don’t spot the signs until the damage has already been done.

The expert urges people to use the “seven second rule”: simply press the back of your hand against the pavement for 7 seconds. Remember: “If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.”

It’s important to keep checking temperatures, not just the weather forecast as ground surfaces can feel “dangerously hot” by the mid afternoon.

Anything above 24 degrees should be avoided, and it’s safest to walk your dog in the early morning or after the sun goes down. Be sure to avoid walking your dog between 11am and 4pm.

Many people turn to social media for tips and advice, with videos on TikTok advising to add ice to dogs’ water bowls while limiting their time outdoors.

Those with gardens can also face added risks in hot weather, especially if your dog is prone to chasing toys or running around in the sunshine.

Simon continued: “Dogs can drop from heat exhaustion in their own gardens. People think they’re being responsible by skipping the walk, but then throw a ball for 20 minutes on a hot lawn.

“It’s a recipe for disaster. Dogs won’t stop playing until they physically can’t carry on.”

The expert advises “offering shade, paddling pools, or frozen enrichment toys stuffed with your dog’s usual food to keep them stimulated without raising their core temperature”.

He added: “You don’t need anything fancy. Just use part of their normal meal, ideally a grain-free food with high meat content inside a Kong or slow-feeder, or if using raw or wet food, freeze it, and let them lick it gradually.

“It cools them down and keeps them occupied.”

Signs of overheating:

• Excessive panting

• Drooling or glazed eyes

• Rapid heartbeat

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Uncoordinated movements or collapse

If you notice any of these signs, stop all activity immediately, move them to a cool spot, and contact a vet. Cooling with lukewarm water - especially over the chest and belly - can help, but it’s best to “avoid ice baths, as they may shock the system”.

If you’re in doubt, don’t walk your dog - they won’t say no to a walk but they are at risk of serious health consequences if it's not the right temperature.