With the temps rising and the days getting longer, chances are you’ll be spending more time outside with your dog—and honestly, there’s no better adventure buddy than your four-legged BFF. But while we often think of winter as the “dangerous” season, summer brings its own set of hazards that can sneak up on you (and your pup) fast. From heat stroke to pesky stingers to the wrong kind of plants, these outdoor safety tips for dogs will help you keep your best friend safe, cool, and happy all season long.
Related: Putting Together a First Aid Kit for a New Dog
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Outdoor Safety Tips for Dogs
Whether you’re hiking trails, hitting the beach, or just hanging out in the backyard, these tips will help you keep your pup safe from the most common warm-weather hazards.
Sunburn (It Isn’t Just a Problem for Humans)
Yes, dogs can get sunburned—and no, it’s not just a concern for short-haired or white-coated breeds (though they’re more at risk). Sensitive spots include the nose, ears, belly, and any place with thin or sparse fur. Use a pet-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and avoid ones with zinc oxide or salicylates, which are toxic to dogs. And if your pup’s rocking a summer haircut, keep it a bit longer for extra UV protection.
Did you know that dogs can get a sunburn just like we can? Yup, they sure can, and this is especially true for dogs with short hair or light-colored fur. To prevent sunburn, apply sunscreen
Don’t Let Dehydration Sneak Up
Dogs can get dehydrated quickly when they’re running around in the sun. Signs include dry gums, thick drool, sunken eyes, and a loss of skin elasticity. Make sure your dog always has access to cool, fresh water—on walks, hikes, and even backyard romps. Travel water bottles or collapsible bowls make it easy to keep them hydrated on the go.
Keep Things Cool (Literally)
Dehydration is only one piece of the heat puzzle. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be fatal if not caught early. Make sure your dog has access to shady areas, avoid mid-day walks, and consider getting a kiddie pool (check out these dog pool ideas to help you pick the best one) or a cooling mat for your backyard. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Even with the windows cracked, temps can spike dangerously fast.
Dangerous plants
Summer gardens are gorgeous, but many popular plants are hazardous for dogs. These are just a few of the more popular plants to avoid:
- Foxglove – Can cause heart problems
- Buttercup – Irritating to the mouth and digestive tract
- Morning Glory – Seeds and roots can be toxic
- Rhubarb leaves – Can cause kidney failure
- Iris – Especially the roots
If you’re not sure whether a plant is safe, it’s better to err on the side of caution. The ASPCA has a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants for pets.
Bee Stings and Bug Bites
Dogs love chasing bees…until they get stung. Bee stings usually cause mild irritation, but some dogs have severe allergic reactions that require immediate vet attention. Thankfully, my dog Freya isn’t allergic to bee stings, but she is EXTREMLY allergic to the cicada killer wasps that pop during cicada years. Fortunately, that’s only every 10 years or so.
Other bugs to watch for include:
- Fire ants – Painful and can cause swelling
- Spiders – Some bites can be serious
- Ticks – Can spread Lyme disease and other infections
- Mosquitoes – Carry heartworm
Talk to your vet about year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, and check your dog regularly—especially after hikes or walks through tall grass.
Hot Pavement = Burned Paws
If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Aim for walks during cooler hours—early morning or late evening—and stick to grassy paths when possible. Dog booties can offer protection, but some dogs need a little time to adjust to wearing them (and watching them try is both hilarious and heartbreaking).
Say No to BBQ Scraps
Grilled meat smells amazing, but bones, skewers, onions, and corn cobs are all big no-nos for dogs. They can cause choking, blockages, or worse. Let guests know not to feed your pup table scraps and have some dog-safe treats on hand so your pup doesn’t feel left out.
Car Rides: Safety First
Planning a road trip or even just a quick ride to the lake? Make sure your dog is safely secured with a crash-tested harness, crate, or dog seatbelt. It’s safer for them—and for you. And again, never leave your dog alone in the car. Even with windows cracked, the temperature can climb dangerously high in just minutes.
Water Safety for Doggos
Not all dogs are natural swimmers. If you’re heading to the beach or a lake, keep a close eye on your pup. A doggy life jacket is a good idea, especially for brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, small dogs, or seniors. Rinse your dog off after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, or algae.
Watch for Toxic Algae Blooms
Speaking of algae, blue-green algae blooms in ponds and lakes can be deadly. If the water looks weird (bright green, cloudy, or has a weird film), keep your dog far away. Even a few licks can cause serious neurological issues or liver failure.
Bonus Tip: ID Tags & GPS Collars
Summertime adventures mean a higher risk of your dog wandering off. Make sure your pup’s collar has up-to-date ID tags and consider a GPS dog tracker for added peace of mind. Tech like the Halo Collar 4 lets you track your dog in real-time, set safe zones, and even monitor their activity levels.
Final Thoughts: If It’s Too Hot for You, It’s Too Hot for Your Dog
That’s the golden rule of summer pet safety. If you’re sweltering in the heat, your pup is, too. So take breaks, stay hydrated, keep things shady, and don’t be afraid to call it a day early if it’s just too hot out there.
Because at the end of the day, the best summer memories are the ones you both get to enjoy—safely.
