Dehydration in Dogs and 6 Other Summer Dangers

At long last, the dog days of summer are here. While warm weather means more walks, hikes, backyard playtime, and outdoor adventures, it also brings seasonal hazards that can put your dog at risk.

Many pet owners think about fleas and ticks during the summer months, but there are plenty of other dangers to watch for. From heat stroke in dogs and burned paw pads to toxic foods at backyard barbecues, summer can be surprisingly risky for our canine companions.

Here are seven common summer dangers veterinarians see every year, and what you can do to keep your dog safe.

1. Heat Stroke and Dehydration

One of the biggest summertime risks is dehydration and heat-related illness. While humans cool themselves by sweating, dogs primarily regulate their body temperature through panting, making them much more vulnerable to overheating.

Many owners wonder, can dogs dehydrate more quickly than people? The answer is yes. Dogs can lose significant amounts of fluid during hot, humid weather, especially when exercising outdoors.

Signs that your dog may be dehydrated include:

• Excessive panting
• Dry or sticky gums
• Lethargy
• Sunken eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness

If you suspect you have a dehydrate dog, move them to a cool area immediately and offer fresh water. Severe dehydration and overheating can quickly progress to heat stroke in dogs, which is a life-threatening emergency.

To help prevent problems:

• Provide access to shade at all times.
• Make sure fresh water is always available.
• Limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
• Schedule walks in the early morning or evening.
• Be especially cautious on humid days.

And remember: Never leave your dog in a parked vehicle. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can climb to dangerous levels within minutes and lead to fatal heat stroke.

2. Hot Pavement and Burned Paw Pads

If pavement feels hot to your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Asphalt, concrete, and sidewalks can reach temperatures far higher than the surrounding air. Walking on these surfaces can cause painful burns, blisters, and injuries to your dog's paw pads.

Before heading out for a walk:

• Place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your dog.
• Walk during cooler parts of the day.
• Choose grassy or shaded routes whenever possible.

Some owners also use dog shoes for hot pavement to help protect sensitive paws. These protective booties can be especially helpful during heat waves or when walking in urban areas with large stretches of exposed concrete.

3. Traffic and Road Hazards

Summer means more people outdoors, more cars on the road, and more distractions for your dog.

Whether you're taking a neighborhood walk or visiting a busy park, always keep your dog securely leashed and under control. Dogs can become startled by loud noises, chase wildlife, or dart toward interesting smells without warning.

If your dog spends time outdoors, ensure fences and gates are secure and that outdoor areas are located away from busy roads whenever possible.

4. Fleas, Ticks, Bees, and Other Summer Pests

Warm weather creates ideal conditions for fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and stinging insects.

Ticks can transmit serious diseases, while fleas can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Mosquitoes can spread heartworm disease in many parts of the country.

Make sure your dog stays up to date on veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention throughout the summer.

Bees and wasps can also be a problem. Many dogs become curious about buzzing insects and end up getting stung. Mild swelling is common, but severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction require immediate veterinary attention.

Contact your veterinarian if you're unsure whether a sting requires treatment.

5. Cookouts, Picnics, and Backyard Parties

Summer gatherings are fun for people, but they can be dangerous for dogs.

Many foods commonly found at barbecues and cookouts can cause illness or injury. Some of the biggest offenders include:

• Onions and garlic
• Grapes and raisins
• Chocolate
• Corn cobs
• Fruit pits
• Alcoholic beverages
• Fatty foods
• Cooked bones

Cooked bones deserve special attention because they can splinter and cause choking, intestinal blockages, or internal injuries.

Guests may also be tempted to share food with your dog. Politely remind friends and family not to offer table scraps without your permission, especially if your dog has dietary restrictions or food sensitivities.

6. Water Hazards

Just because it's called the "doggy paddle" doesn't mean every dog is a natural swimmer.

Some breeds, including many brachycephalic dogs such as Pugs and Bulldogs, can struggle in the water. Other dogs simply don't enjoy swimming.

Never force a hesitant dog into a pool, lake, or ocean. Even strong swimmers can become exhausted, get caught in currents, or have difficulty finding a safe exit point.

Pool safety is especially important. Many dogs can accidentally fall into a pool but have trouble locating the steps to get back out.

To stay safe:

• Always supervise dogs around water.
• Consider a canine life jacket for boating or open-water activities.
• Teach your dog how to safely exit a swimming pool.
• Never leave dogs unattended near water.

After swimming, rinse your dog to remove chlorine, salt, or bacteria and provide plenty of fresh drinking water.

7. Lawn and Landscaping Chemicals

Summer is peak season for lawn care, gardening, and landscaping projects.

Unfortunately, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and mulch products can pose serious risks to pets. Dogs may walk through treated areas and lick their paws later, or they may directly ingest lawn products.

To reduce risk:

• Follow all product label directions carefully.
• Keep pets away from treated areas for the recommended period.
• Store lawn chemicals securely.
• Consider pet-safe landscaping alternatives when possible.

If your dog is exposed to a chemical product or begins acting unusually after spending time in a treated area, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately.

Enjoy Summer Safely with Your Dog

Summer can be one of the most enjoyable times of year for dogs and their owners, but a little preparation goes a long way.

By watching for signs of dehydration, preventing heat stroke, protecting paws with strategies such as dog shoes, and being mindful of common seasonal hazards, you can help your dog stay healthy and happy all season long.