Keep Dogs Safe From Summer Hazards: Heat, Bugs & Water Risks Explained

De Silver Paw

Keep Dogs Safe From Summer Hazards: Heat, Bugs & Water Risks Explained

Summer is the season of long walks, road trips, patio lounging, and beach days with your dog. But it’s also the season with the highest number of preventable emergency vet visits. Heatstroke, burnt paws, dehydration, insect bites, and water accidents can happen faster than most dog parents realize.

Being proactive can mean the difference between a fun summer adventure and a dangerous, costly situation. This guide breaks down the most common summer hazards — and exactly how to keep your dog safe, comfortable, and happy all season long.

Heatstroke: The Biggest Summer Risk

Heatstroke occurs when a dog’s body can’t cool itself fast enough. Because dogs can only regulate body temperature through panting and their paws, they overheat far more quickly than humans.

Signs of heatstroke include:

  • Excessive panting

  • Bright red gums

  • Drooling

  • Vomiting

  • Disorientation

  • Collapse

How to prevent it:

  • Avoid midday heat (walk early morning or evening)

  • Provide lots of shade

  • Always carry water

  • Use cooling vests or bandanas

  • Never leave your dog in a car — not even for a minute

Short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, Frenchies, and Boxers are at especially high risk.

Hot Pavement & Burned Paw Pads

Summer pavement can reach 120–150°F (49–65°C) — hot enough to burn your dog’s paws in seconds.

Test this simple rule:

Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds.
If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.

How to protect paws:

  • Walk early or late

  • Use shaded paths

  • Avoid black asphalt

  • Put your dog in summer boots

  • Apply paw balm for moisture and protection

Boots also help prevent cuts from gravel, glass, and rough terrain.

Dehydration & Electrolyte Loss

Dogs don’t drink proactively the way humans do. When they’re playing or exploring, hydration is the last thing on their mind.

Signs of dehydration:

  • Sticky gums

  • Lethargy

  • Loss of skin elasticity

  • Sunken eyes

Prevention tips:

  • Carry fresh water on every walk

  • Offer frequent drink breaks

  • Use a collapsible bowl or portable bottle

  • Add water to meals during heatwaves

Insect Stings, Ticks & Parasites

Summer pests aren’t just annoying — they can be dangerous.

Bees & wasps:

Can cause swelling or, in rare cases, allergic reactions.

Mosquitos:

Transmit heartworm.

Ticks:

Carry Lyme disease and other infections.

How to protect your dog:

  • Keep your dog on vet-approved tick and heartworm prevention

  • Avoid tall grass or stagnant water

  • Check your dog daily (especially ears, armpits, neck, and paws)

  • Carry tweezers to remove ticks properly

Water Hazards: Pools, Lakes & Beaches

Water activities are a summer favorite, but they come with risks.

Watch out for:

  • Strong currents

  • Waves

  • Deep drop-offs

  • Blue-green algae

  • Saltwater ingestion

  • Pool chemicals

How to stay safe:

  • Use a properly fitted dog life jacket

  • Teach your dog where pool exits are

  • Bring plenty of fresh water

  • Rinse your dog after swimming

Swimming tires dogs out much faster than walking, so monitor their stamina closely.

Sunburn — Yes, Dogs Can Burn

Light-colored, thin-coated, or hairless breeds are vulnerable to sunburn.

Common burn zones:

  • Nose

  • Ears

  • Belly

  • Back

Prevention:

  • Use dog-safe sunscreen

  • Avoid peak UV hours

  • Provide shade during outdoor rest

BBQ, Campfire & Picnic Dangers

Summer gatherings create tempting but dangerous situations.

Hazards include:

  • Cooked bones (can splinter)

  • Skewers

  • Corn cobs

  • Fatty foods (can trigger pancreatitis)

  • Chocolate

  • Alcohol

  • Fire pits and grills

Always keep dogs away from food tables and hot grills.

Overexertion From Play

Dogs don’t always know when to slow down.

Prevent exhaustion:

  • Limit fetch sessions during heat

  • Take frequent breaks

  • Watch for heavy panting

  • Avoid long hikes on hot days

Senior dogs and short-nosed breeds tire especially fast.

Seasonal Allergies

Grass, pollen, and plants flare up in summer.

Signs of allergies:

  • Itchy skin

  • Paw licking

  • Watery eyes

  • Ear infections

  • Hot spots

Rinsing paws after walks and using Omega-3 supplements can help minimize symptoms.

Summer should be your dog’s favorite season — full of adventure, sunshine, and time outdoors. With simple precautions, the right gear, and awareness of environmental risks, you can keep your dog safe no matter how hot it gets.

From cooling vests and protective boots to hydration tools and dog life jackets, the right equipment turns summer hazards into manageable challenges. The goal is simple: enjoy the season while protecting your dog’s health and comfort.