Summer brings sunshine, longer days, and tons of fun—but it also brings the heat. While we may toss on flip-flops without thinking, our dogs don’t have that luxury. Their paw pads are tough, but not invincible—and hot pavement can cause serious burns in just seconds.
Here’s what every dog parent should know to keep those precious paws protected this season.
How Hot Is Too Hot?
If the air temperature is 85°F, the pavement can be over 130°F—hot enough to fry an egg… or burn your dog’s pads. Black asphalt, in particular, absorbs and radiates heat, making it the biggest summer danger for paws.
The 7-Second Rule
Want to check if the ground is safe for your dog? Try this:Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds.If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
Signs of Burned Paw Pads
- Limping or refusing to walk
- Licking or chewing at feet
- Red, blistered, or darker-than-usual paw pads
- Whining during or after a walk
If you notice these signs, gently clean your dog’s paws and contact your vet.
What You Can Do at Home
- Walk early or late in the day to avoid peak pavement temps
- Stick to grassy areas when possible
- Try dog-safe paw wax or booties for extra protection
- Keep paw fur trimmed to prevent matting and overheating
Camp Ruff It Tip:
If your dog dances around on the sidewalk or hesitates to walk in the driveway—listen to them. They’re trying to tell you something!
