How to Protect Dog Paws From Hot Pavement: 7 Expert Tips

Hot weather poses multiple risks for your furry companion. Some, such as heat stroke or dehydration, are more obvious to pet owners, as these are conditions that humans are also prone to when the temperature outside rises. Others, though, are often overlooked, but they are equally dangerous. 

One of these hidden hazards is hot concrete or asphalt pavement, which can cause damage to your dog’s paws. Continue reading to discover how dog owners can protect their dogs’ feet from hot pavement and make summer walks safer. 

When Is It Too Hot to Walk Your Dog on Pavement

Asphalt and concrete heat up quickly under direct sunlight. Even if the weather is still relatively safe for a dog to be outside, the pavement can become dangerous for your companion to step on, as it can cause burns to the sensitive skin on their paw pads. According to  Dr. Jerry Klein, DVM, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, young dogs and puppies are especially susceptible to this type of injury. 

You can also rely on the approximate difference in temperature between air and asphalt (or other similar materials). Due to a high level of sunlight absorption, pavements can become 20-40°F (11-22°C) warmer than the surrounding air temperature. When the temperature of the pavement reaches 120°F (49°C), burns can occur in as fast as 60 seconds. 

7 Tips on How to Protect Dogs' Feet From Hot Pavement

If taking a walk in the summer heat is unavoidable, ensure your pet’s paws are appropriately protected. You can achieve this by adjusting the time and route of your walks, or by using special devices and products to add an extra layer of protection for sensitive skin on your dog’s paws. Here are some of the safety considerations. 

1. Walk early in the morning or late at night

2. Stick to grass or shaded areas

3. Avoid artificial grass or turf

Artificial grass and turf retain heat and can become dangerously hot, especially if they are placed under direct summer sun. Although high-quality artificial grass can be less hazardous, it’s best to assume it's hot and discourage your dog from walking on it. If walking on it is absolutely necessary, test it with your palm and choose the areas with enough shade. 

4. Use dog booties

5. Use protective socks

You may prefer using socks to protect your dog’s paws. They are more prone to wearing down, which can come as a disadvantage.  However, it can be a good alternative for dogs that struggle to get used to wearing booties or those with paw deformities. 

6. Apply paw wax

7. Moisturize the skin properly 

To prevent dryness and cracking of the skin due to high temperatures, consider regularly moisturising a dog’s feet. You can use special paw balms designed for canines (avoid applying products for humans). They will keep the paw skin healthy and add a protective barrier against hot surfaces. 

How to Tell If Your Dog Has Burnt Paws 

Unfortunately, you may fail to prevent the damage to your dog’s feet. Sometimes, as little as a 1-minute walk is enough to cause burns to the sensitive skin on the paws. To be able to help your pooch promptly and seek veterinary advice if necessary, you must know how to tell if your dog’s paw pads are burned. 

How to Treat Burned Dog Paws and Ease Their Discomfort

Burnt paw pads can cause significant pain and discomfort to your furry friend. It’s vital to act early to help them alleviate the discomfort and prevent more serious damage to the skin. The advice below is for at-home solutions, which can be used when the damage to the feet is not severe. For more serious burns, consulting a vet is obligatory. 

• Immediate cooling: Reduce the heat and the inflammation of the skin by flushing the paws with cool water. You can also apply a cool compress made from a clean, wet cloth. Avoid rubbing the skin or using ice packs for cooling purposes. 

• Cleaning and assessment: Gently and carefully remove any dirt or debris from the skin, and estimate the severity of the damage. Check the skin colour and look for any bruises or signs of oozing. 

• Soothing and protection: Help calm down the irritation by applying paw balm or aloe. Cover the paws with a light bandage. It shouldn’t be too tight, but it should be fixed well enough to prevent a dog from licking the skin.   

• Seeking veterinary care: If you suspect the burn is deep and affects the inner layers of the skin, contact your vet immediately for further assistance. The same is true if the pain persists or if you notice signs of a bacterial infection. 

• Prevention: Act proactively and avoid situations where skin burns can occur. Don’t walk during the afternoon, choose parks instead of concrete or asphalt sidewalks and use paw protection to prevent skin burns. 

Wrap Up 

Summer heat poses numerous risks to our furry friends, including skin burns from walking on hot pavements. Remember, asphalt and concrete surfaces get dangerously hot for canines even when the air temperature is relatively mild. That’s why it is vital to stick to safety rules to prevent burns on a dog’s paw pads. If the burn does happen, act quickly to minimize the damage and seek veterinary advice.