EXERCISING DOGS IN SUMMER: HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?

As temperatures rise during the summer months, keeping pets active is still important, but how and when they exercise matters just as much as how much they do.

While regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, good behaviour and mental wellbeing, hot weather can quickly turn a normal walk into a health risk if precautions aren’t taken.

WHY SUMMER EXERCISE NEEDS EXTRA CARE

Dogs don’t regulate body temperature as efficiently as humans. They rely mainly on panting to cool down, which becomes less effective as the surrounding temperature rises. When combined with exercise, this can quickly lead to overheating.

Even on days that don’t feel extremely hot, factors like humidity, direct sun and lack of airflow can increase risk.

SIGNS YOUR PET MAY BE OVERDOING IT

Watch carefully for early signs of heat stress, including:

Excessive panting or drooling
Slowing down or reluctance to continue walking
Bright red gums or tongue
Wobbliness or confusion
Seeking shade or lying down repeatedly
Vomiting or collapse in severe cases

If any of these signs appear, stop exercise immediately, move your pet to a cool area and seek veterinary advice if needed.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

During summer, the timing of walks is more important than the distance.

Early morning and late evening are safest.
Midday walks should be avoided entirely on warm days.
Always check pavement temperature before heading out. If it’s too hot to comfortably hold your hand on the ground for 5–7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.

BREED DIFFERENCES MATTER

Not all dogs tolerate heat in the same way. Some are naturally more vulnerable and require extra caution. Higher-risk dogs include:

Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs) such as Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs
Overweight or obese dogs
Very young puppies and older dogs
Thick-coated breeds like Huskies or Newfoundlands
Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions

Brachycephalic dogs are particularly at risk because their shortened airways make panting less efficient, meaning they can overheat quickly even with mild activity.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE IS ENOUGH IN HOT WEATHER?

There is no single rule that fits every dog, but in summer the focus should shift from “distance” to “quality and safety”.

On hot days, consider:

Shorter, more frequent walks
Shaded routes such as woodland paths
Sniffing games and mental stimulation instead of long walks
Indoor play or enrichment activities during peak heat

Mental exercise can be just as tiring as physical activity and is often safer in extreme temperatures. Just 10–15 minutes of mental enrichment can be as tiring as a much longer walk, helping your pet stay happy and content during hot weather. Here are some simple ideas:

Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys – encourage natural hunting and problem-solving while rewarding your dog.
Snuffle mats – hide treats among the fabric for your dog to sniff out.
Scent games – hide treats or favourite toys around the house and ask your dog to find them.
Training sessions – practise basic commands, tricks, or teach new skills such as spin, paw, or roll over.
Scatter feeding – sprinkle kibble around a room or garden for your dog to search for.
Frozen enrichment treats – stuffed Kongs, lick mats, or frozen pet-safe treats can provide both mental stimulation and cooling.
Interactive play – gentle games of tug or hide-and-seek indoors.
Obstacle courses – create simple indoor challenges using cushions, chairs, and blankets.

COOLING YOUR DOG SAFELY

Simple steps can help keep pets comfortable:

Always provide fresh, cool water
Walk in shaded areas whenever possible
Use cooling mats or damp towels for resting
Allow time to rest and recover after exercise
Avoid throwing balls or intense fetch games in heat

Never rely on swimming alone as a cooling method and always supervise water activities.

A simple rule to remember:

If you are struggling with the heat, your dog almost certainly is too. Adjusting routines during warmer months is not limiting your pet, it’s protecting them.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Summer exercise is still important, but it should always be safe, sensible and tailored to the conditions of the day. By choosing cooler times, watching for early warning signs and understanding your dog’s individual needs, you can keep them active without putting their health at risk.

Be vigilant and if you have any concerns please call Oakhill Vets on 01772 861300.