How to protect your dog's paws in summer

Protecting your dog's paws in summer means shielding those sensitive pads from hot surfaces, keeping them clean and conditioned, and choosing routes and timing that work with the weather instead of against it. Paw pads do a remarkable amount of work, gripping, cushioning, and even helping with cooling, and summer throws several hazards at them at once. As a bakery that loves a good outdoor adventure with dogs, we put together this season-long paw-care game plan.

First, a reminder: this is general advice. Anytime a paw looks injured, cracked, or infected, loop in your vet.

Beat the heat with timing

The number-one threat to summer paws is hot ground. Asphalt, concrete, sand, and metal can heat up far beyond the air temperature and burn pads within seconds. Shift walks to early morning or evening, when surfaces have cooled off. Before you head out, do the quick hand test: if the back of your hand can't sit on the pavement for seven seconds, your dog shouldn't be walking on it either. Stick to grass and shaded trails whenever you can.

Check paws before and after outings

A habit of inspecting paws catches small problems before they grow. Run your fingers between the toes and over each pad, looking for redness, cuts, cracks, embedded gravel, burrs, or stubborn bits of sticky asphalt. After beach trips, rinse away sand and salt, which can irritate skin. After hikes, check for thorns and foxtails. If something looks wrong and won't resolve, your vet is the right call.

Keep pads conditioned

Heat and dry conditions can leave pads rough or cracked. A vet-approved paw balm helps keep them supple, much like lotion for dry skin. Apply a thin layer after baths or long walks. Steer clear of human moisturizers, which aren't made for paws and may tempt your dog to lick them off. If cracks are deep or painful, ask your vet what to use.

Mind the fur and nails

Grooming plays a quiet role in paw health. Trim the fur between pads so it doesn't trap debris, moisture, or hot sand. Keep nails at a sensible length, since overgrown nails change how a dog distributes weight and can make walking uncomfortable. If trimming makes you nervous, a groomer or vet tech can show you the ropes.

Use protective gear when needed

For hikes over rough terrain or any unavoidable time on hot surfaces, booties offer real protection for pads. Most dogs need a few short, rewarded practice sessions to walk naturally in them. Paw wax is a lighter-touch option that adds a protective layer for shorter outings. The American Kennel Club's adventure and safety resources are a great place to learn more about prepping dogs for the outdoors.

Hydration helps paws too

It's easy to forget that a well-hydrated dog handles heat better overall, paws included, since healthy circulation and temperature regulation support the whole body. Carry water on every outing and offer it at rest stops. Pair water breaks with shade so your dog can actually recover. The AVMA's warm-weather pet safety page and Cornell's summer heat safety tips both reinforce how central hydration is to hot-weather safety.

Reward the routine

Paw checks, bootie practice, and patient rest breaks all go smoother with a little something tasty. We're big believers in making good habits fun. For the chewy, satisfying reward that keeps a dog still during a paw inspection, our jerky-style Jerky & chews are great for the trail and post-hike celebrations alike. For quick training rewards during bootie practice, our limited-ingredient Soft & Chewy treats are easy to dole out. Treats are the fun layer on top of solid paw care, never a replacement for it.

Key takeaways

• Walk during cool hours and use the 7-second test before stepping onto pavement.
• Inspect paws before and after outings for cuts, debris, and burns.
• Condition pads with a vet-approved balm and skip human lotions.
• Trim paw fur and nails to support comfortable movement.
• Use booties or wax on rough terrain and hot surfaces, and keep water handy.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I check my dog's paws in summer?

Ideally before and after every walk or outing, and any time your dog limps or licks at a foot. Quick checks catch cuts, burns, and stuck debris early. Make it part of your come-home routine.

Can I put sunscreen or lotion on my dog's paws?

Use only products made for dogs, and ask your vet first. Human lotions aren't formulated for paws and may be unsafe if licked off. A vet-recommended paw balm is the safer choice for dry or cracked pads.

How do I get sticky asphalt or sand off my dog's pads?

Rinse the paws with cool water and gently work debris loose; never pull hard at stuck material. If something is embedded or the pad looks injured, call your vet. Drying the paws afterward helps prevent irritation.

Are booties necessary for every dog?

Not for every dog or every walk, but they're valuable for rough trails, hot surfaces, and sensitive paws. Cool-hour timing and grassy routes handle a lot on their own. Add gear when conditions call for it.