Dog Exercise in Hot Weather

Keeping Your Dog Active in Hot Weather

Exercising your dog in hot weather requires careful planning to ensure their safety and well-being. Here are some tips to help you manage dog exercise during the heat:

1. **Timing**: Choose the cooler parts of the day for walks and playtime. Early mornings or late evenings are usually best when temperatures are lower.

2. **Hydration**: Always carry water for both you and your dog. Make sure your dog stays hydrated before, during, and after exercise. Consider a portable water bowl for convenience.

3. **Shorter Sessions**: Instead of long walks, opt for shorter, more frequent exercise sessions. This helps prevent overheating while still allowing your dog to burn off energy.

4. **Shade and Rest**: Look for shaded areas during walks, and allow your dog to rest frequently. If you’re at a park, find a spot under a tree or bring an umbrella.

5. **Cool Down**: After exercising, let your dog cool down gradually. You can use damp towels or a kiddie pool with shallow water for them to splash in.

6. **Signs of Overheating**: Be vigilant for signs of overheating, which include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or confusion. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cooler area and provide water immediately.

7. **Paw Care**: Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws. Test the ground with your hand; if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Consider walking on grass or dirt instead.

8. **Indoor Activities**: On particularly hot days, consider indoor activities like playing fetch in a cool room, using puzzle toys, or even teaching new tricks to keep your dog mentally stimulated.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy while still getting the exercise they need, even in hot weather.

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