Dog myth, busted
“It's only 25°, lovely walking weather.”
Asphalt in sun runs 20–30° hotter than the air. Test with your hand.
Back of your hand flat on the pavement for seven seconds. Can't hold it? It burns paw pads. A pleasant 25°C afternoon can mean 50°C+ asphalt.
Grass, shade and timing change everything, the full temperature table is in hot-weather walking, or use the heat checker.
One minute of science
Asphalt at 30°C air temperature can sit at 55°C or more in direct sun, hot enough to burn a paw pad in under a minute. Press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds; if you cannot keep it there, walk on grass or wait for the evening. Paw burns show up as limping, licking and blistered pads a few hours later. Check today's walk.
An official passport for your very good dogWalks, milestones and health records, one cute book.
Get the app
