How to Protect Dogs’ Feet in Summer 

With warmer weather around the corner, you might be unsure on how make sure your furry friend’s feet stay protected as the pavements get hotter. Everyone enjoys when the sun is shining, but it’s important to remember that your dog’s paws can suffer from the increased heat. Here are some tips on how to protect dogs’ feet in summer.  

Check the Ground 

A good way to judge if the ground is too hot is to see if you can place your hands comfortably on it for at least 10 seconds. If you can’t, this suggests it’s too hot to walk your four-legged friend, and it might be better to wait until it cools down. Walking your dog in these conditions can result in burnt paw pads which you definitely don’t want! 

Walk in Cooler Weather 

One of the simplest tips is to avoid walking your pup in the hottest times of the day. These are typically when the heat peaks, so you’re safer sticking to earlier morning or evening walks to ensure the floor is cooler. 

Stick to Grass 

If you must go out in the warmer weather, it’s advisable to choose grassy areas over pavement as these will stay cooler. If you can venture to somewhere that provides shade this is also preferable! 

Dog Shoes 

Dog shoes are a great, practical way to protect your furry friend’s paws from heat. However, it’s important to note that not all dogs get on with these shoes, or some have a hard time walking in them. If your pup can adjust to the doggy shoes, this is a brilliant option to keep them happy and safe! 

Check Paws Regularly 

If you are walking your dog in the summer months, make sure you check their paws in between and after your outings. Look out for any abnormalities such as swelling, redness, dark discolouration, or anything else out of the ordinary. If you do notice any of the above, or excessive licking, limping or itching, this may also be of concern and you should consult a vet.  

Preventative Measures 

When it’s cooler, it’s helpful to walk your pooch on the pavement as this won’t burn their paws, but actually helps to toughen their paws so they are less likely to burn in the future.  

At Kiezebrink, we love keeping your pets healthy so they can feel their best. That’s why we offer a variety of raw pet food, so you can keep your furry companions fed with only the best. For more information, browse our range of products on our website or contact our team today to see how we can help.