Summer is around the corner, which means we have to be even more thoughtful about how we plan our hikes, especially with our dogs. Below is a list of tips to stay safe on summer hikes with your dog.

We love hiking with our dogs, and we hike with them a lot. However, I would be doing a disservice if I didn’t say we definitely take some breaks from hiking in the summer when the heat is too much.

Dogs can overheat just like humans, so it’s important to take these precautions when planning your summer adventures.

Avoid the hottest times of day

There are a number of variables we keep in mind when it comes to the heat. This is definitely number one. Summer means we take on more early morning or the occasional late evening hike.

Going early in the morning helps us avoid the hottest times of the day, and the ground is usually at it’s coolest.

Why do I bring up the ground temperature? Because we want to protect our dogs paws from burning. The ground can be a lot hotter than the air temperature. We usually start to double check the ground when the air temperatures start to reach mid to high 70’s (F).

If you’re unsure if the ground is too hot, try the seven second test by placing the back of your hand on the ground and wait several seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.

Find shaded hikes

Although shade doesn’t actually make temperatures cooler, it does make a difference in how you feel. Generally, it’ll feel 10-15 degrees cooler in the shade because you’re avoiding direct sunlight, which is still a benefit in my opinion!

Hike closer to water

If you have access to areas by the beach, the cooler ocean waters bring in a comforting sea breeze.

One of our favorite things to do is hike to a water feature, usually a waterfall or a lake. It’s feels like a treat when we make it to our destination and are rewarded with both the views and mist from the falls. Chase especially loves when we hike to a lake that he can swim in, like Rainbow Lake in Colorado (pictured below).

Note: Be careful around stagnant water as that can be a breeding ground for bacteria or fungi that’ll make you and your dog sick.

Hike in higher elevation

Higher elevation usually means cooler air temperatures.

The exact amount of change, however, depends on factors like sunshine (which is more intense at elevation), clouds/fog, wind, and if there’s any precipitation. Be careful about how high you decide to go though! There may still be snow in the summer. And in some cases, inversions might actually make it feel hotter, which basically sounds like a long winded way of saying you should still always double check the weather.

Plan to give yourself more time

Hike slower – It’s not a race! Take it easy and enjoy the view. Plus, it’s better for your joints and can add an element of meditation, which is good for your mental health too!

Preparing for the heat

Just like you have to adjust your planning, the things you bring will also change.

Pack plenty of water

I’m always under the mindset that I’d rather have carried too much water than not enough, and this is even more important when it comes to a warm day. Plus, any “extra” water can also be used to help cool you or your dog off, like soaking your bandana or your their cooling vest.

Adding electrolytes to your water can also be beneficial in the summer to keep you hydrated and avoid cramping. If you need to encourage your dog to drink more, one trick that has worked for us is mixing in some bone broth to their water.

Wear the appropriate clothing

For us this means moisture wicking clothes (avoid cotton) with SPF protection, and a good sun hat.

We also pack items like dog booties and cooling vests for the dogs, just in case. (Links to Kurgo’s Blaze Cross Dog Shoes and Dog Core Cooling Vest. Although we are Kurgo Ambassadors, these are not affiliate or sponsored links. We just genuinely love their products.)

For a full list of hiking essentials, check out our blog post Hiking With Your Dog: The Essentials. And if you are looking for new gear and want to save a few bucks, you can check out our discount codes here.

Think about other options

Sometimes it’s just simply too hot to hike, and that has to be OK. Consider other fun summer adventures like kayaking or paddle boarding. This can be relaxing alternative, or at least an excuse to try something new. And, if your dogs are anything like mine, they might jump off and prefer to swim around to keep things exciting. As long as they’re OK with water, I see that as a benefit (they go home tired!).