Summer in Australia is here, and that means long sunny days, beach trips, and plenty of outdoor adventures with your furry best friend. But as the mercury climbs, it’s not just you who feels the heat—your dog’s paws are taking the brunt of it too!

While we can throw on a pair of thongs or sandals, your pup’s paws are bare and vulnerable to the scorching summer pavement.

That’s why it’s so important to take steps to protect those precious paws during summer. Hot pavement can cause burns, discomfort, and long-term paw problems, and no doggo deserves that!

So, let’s talk about why this matters and discuss some tips for keeping your dog’s feet safe and happy this summer.

Why hot pavement is a paw problem

Ever stepped barefoot on a hot driveway and yelped like you’ve stepped on lava? Well, imagine that for your dog’s paws! Pavement, asphalt, and sand can reach shocking temperatures on sunny days, often far hotter than the air temperature.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Air temperature of 31°C = Pavement temperature of 62°C.
At temperatures above 50°C, dog paw pads can burn within 60 seconds.

Unlike us, dogs don’t have the luxury of sandals or slippers. Their paw pads are tough, but they’re not heatproof. Constant exposure to hot surfaces can cause blisters, burns, and cracks, which are as painful as they sound.

And it’s not just discomfort—it can lead to infections and make walking downright painful for your pooch. That’s why we need to keep an eye (and a hand!) on the ground they walk on.

How to check if the ground is too hot

The “Five-Second Rule” is your go-to trick:

Place the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds.
If it’s too hot for you to keep your hand there, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Simple, right? If the ground fails the test, it’s time to get creative with your dog walks!

5 actionable tips to protect dog paws in summer

1. Walk during cooler hours

The best way to avoid paw problems is to time your walks when the ground is cooler. Early mornings and late evenings are your sweet spots:

Before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. are ideal.
Bonus: It’s also cooler for you, so everyone wins!

During these hours, the pavement has had time to cool down, making it much safer for your pup to strut their stuff. Avoid walking your dog around midday and when the UV index is high.

2. Paw-tective gear: Doggy boots & paw waxes

Yes, doggy boots are a thing, and they’re cuter than you’d think! Protective boots act as a barrier between your dog’s paws and the hot ground. If your dog isn’t a fan of wearing dog booties, try paw wax. It forms a protective layer on the pads, shielding them from heat and irritation.

Top picks for paw protection:

Lightweight dog boots made for summer (look for breathable material).
Paw balms with natural ingredients like beeswax for extra protection.

3. Choose your walking routes wisely

The type of surface your dog walks on can make all the difference. Stick to grassy parks, dirt trails, or shaded paths during summer. These surfaces don’t heat up as much as pavement or asphalt, keeping your pup’s paws comfy.

Pro tip: If your pup loves the beach, stick to wet sand, which is much cooler than dry sand. And don’t forget to bring plenty of water—hydration is key!

Keep paw pads moisturised

Dry paw pads are more prone to cracking and irritation, especially after exposure to hot surfaces. Regular moisturising keeps the pads supple and healthy. Use a dog-friendly paw balm or lotion to lock in moisture—no, your human skincare products aren’t dog-safe!

5. Cool down quickly if paws overheat

Accidents happen, and sometimes, you might find yourself mid-walk realising the ground is hotter than expected. If your dog’s paws feel warm or tender:

Rinse their paws with cool (not cold) water.
Use a damp towel to cool them down.
Avoid ice packs directly on the paws—it can cause further irritation.

Follow up with a soothing paw balm to help reduce any discomfort.

Signs of paw pad burns

It’s crucial to recognise when your pup’s paws are in trouble. Here are some red flags your dog may be suffering burnt paws from hot pavement:

Limping or refusing to walk.
Licking or chewing at their feet.
Red, blistered, or peeling pads.
Visible cracks or burns.

If you notice any of these signs, consult your vet as soon as possible. Early intervention is key to healing those tender tootsies.

Cool down activities your pup will love this summer!

Protecting your dog’s paws doesn’t mean cutting down on summer fun! There are plenty of paw-friendly ways to enjoy the season:

Backyard splash zone: Set up a kiddie pool or a sprinkler for some cool water play.
Shaded picnics: Head to a dog-friendly park with plenty of trees for shade.
Indoor fun: Puzzle toys and games under that sweet aircon are a great way to keep your dog entertained when it’s too hot outside.
Beach days: Hit the shore early or late to enjoy cooler sands and ocean breezes.

Treat your pup to a pup-sicle!

We have the perfect recipe to keep your doggo cool this summer - our Stuffed Goat Horn Pupsicle! Stuffed with yummy Greek yoghurt, carrot, forage fish and strawberries and frozen into a crunchy Goat Horn , this interactive treat will keep your pup cool and occupied for hours.

Beat the heat and treat your pup with WAG goodies

Happy paws = a happy dog! By being mindful of hot surfaces and taking a few simple precautions, you can keep those tails wagging all summer long. Make sure you follow these tips, keep those paw pads cool, and don’t forget to snap some summer selfies with your four-legged BFF.

Want to keep the good times rolling all summer long? Be sure to stock up on some WAG natural dog treats. 100% natural and packed with only the good stuff, WAG treats are the ultimate way to show your furry friend some love while keeping them happy and healthy.