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Exercise in hot weather dogs
Quick answer
In a UK heatwave, **walk dogs at dawn or dusk**, skip walks when pavement burns your hand, and never rely on midday exercise. Flat-faced breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs) overheat faster. If your dog is panting heavily, lethargic or vomiting after heat — treat as heatstroke and call a vet immediately.
Key takeaways
- Place the back of your hand on the tarmac for five seconds. If it is uncomfortable for you, it can burn paw pads. Walk on grass where possible, or exercise at dawn and dusk.
- Dogs may not stop themselves overheating. Short toilet breaks on grass in shade are safer than full walks in midday heat. Prioritise cooling and hydration over exercise.
The full guide
Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What temperature is too hot to walk a dog in the UK?
- Many vets advise avoiding walks in the hottest part of the day when temperatures exceed roughly 20°C for sensitive breeds, or when pavement is too hot to hold your hand on for five seconds. Flat-faced breeds need extra caution at lower temperatures.
- How do I test if pavement is too hot?
- Place the back of your hand on the tarmac for five seconds. If it is uncomfortable for you, it can burn paw pads. Walk on grass where possible, or exercise at dawn and dusk.
- Can I walk my dog if they still want to go?
- Dogs may not stop themselves overheating. Short toilet breaks on grass in shade are safer than full walks in midday heat. Prioritise cooling and hydration over exercise.