Top 10 Actionable Tips To Protect Dog Paws on Hot Pavement

Unlike humans, canines don't wear slippers. So, how can you protect dog paws from the scorching heat of hot pavement? 

If you live in a concrete jungle with no shade from trees, walking outdoors with your pup can be challenging.

Follow these actionable tips to protect your dog's paws from burning!

RELATED: 7 Most Common Dog Paw Problems and What to Do About Them

But First… Can Hot Pavement Burn My Dog's Paws?

The answer is a resounding YES!

Asphalt temperature can be 40°F to 60°F hotter than air temperature when exposed to direct sunlight, with no wind and low humidity. 

That means a 77°F (25°C) outdoor temperature can heat the pavement to a whopping 125°F (51°C)!

Dr. Raelynn Farnsworth, head of the WSU veterinary teaching hospital, said, “Even in relatively mild temperatures, burns to a pet’s pads can result if forced to walk on the hot surface.”

It can only take 35 seconds for human skin to get a second-degree burn when in contact with hot pavement; it doesn't take a genius to figure out that it can do the same to our dogs when forced to walk on asphalt.

The advice for pet owners is to try touching the pavement.

“Press the back of [your] hand against pavement,” explained Farnsworth.  “If you can’t hold it there for a full seven seconds, it’s too hot for a pet’s paws.”

10 Tips to Protect Dog Paws on Hot Pavement

1. Go on a Walk When the Pavement is Cool

It's a given that dogs need a walk as an exercise to keep their body healthy and strong. 

However, you have to be mindful of when and where to walk to avoid hurting him and his paws.

The best time to go out and walk is when the pavement is cool, preferably in the morning or late evening. 

Avoid walking your Fido in the afternoon or early evening at all costs when the sun's high and the pavement will still be scorching.

Aside from burning their paws, brachycephalic dog breeds are also susceptible to heatstroke.

2. Stick to the Grass and Shady Areas

If you need to walk your dog when it's still hot outside, stay on the grass or in shady locations. 

That way, you can avoid heated surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt, and prevent burning their feet. 

You can also look for a shady park where your dog can relax. Don't forget to bring some water, as they may become extremely thirsty and dehydrated quickly.

3. Always Moisturize Dog Paws

Minor injuries can make canines more prone to getting their paws burned, leading to significant problems in the future.

However, here's another tip to protect your dog's paws and prevent cuts, burns, and cracks: moisturize them every day! 

You can find some moisturizing paw rubs or balms at a local pet store, such as this one available on Amazon.

Remember to apply the paw rub to their feet a few minutes before the walk for best results.

4. Apply Paw Wax Before Outdoor Walks

While paw balms and rubs primarily focus on moisturizing and healing dry or cracked paw pads, paw wax focuses on protecting a dog's paws from environmental hazards, such as hot pavement, snow, and road salts.

Make sure to clean your dog's paws first before applying it. Rub a small amount of wax onto each paw pad and in between the toes.

You can apply it 2 to 3 times a week or as needed, especially before and after outdoor activities in extreme weather conditions.

It's mostly available at local pet stores, or you can also check out this top-rated brand from Amazon.

5. Protect Paws from Hot Pavements With Dog Shoes

You don't walk outside on hot pavement barefoot; so should your pet!

One of the best ways to protect dog paws from burns and injuries is by investing in canine shoes with rubber soles.

Not all dogs like wearing shoes, and it may take time before your Fido gets accustomed to walking with shoes.

It would be best to encourage them to wear shoes from a young age to help them adjust more easily.

You can also try dog shoe suspenders, but this is more advisable on snowy and wet surfaces!

6. Use All-Terrain Dog Boots When Necessary

Is your dog active and athletic and loves running in sand, snow, and even hot pavement? Then, heavy-duty dog boots are the best for your Fido. 

You need to take it off whenever possible to help your dog regulate their body temperature by exposing their feet to the air.

And if possible, remove their foot coverings when they're inside your home.

Just make sure you get the right size!

RELATED: How to Measure a Dog for Boots

7. Utilize Peel And Stick Pads

The use of peel-and-stick pads like this one on Amazon is a quick way to reduce the dangers of hot pavement. They can even help your dog avoid skidding on slick terrain!

There are different types of peel-and-stick pads, but we recommend silicone scar pads or tape over felt pads.

They're reusable, easy to apply, and work well, even in damp weather. 

These peel-and-stick pads are thin, flexible, and resilient, so they shouldn't cause discomfort to your Fido.

8. Invest in a Fido Stroller To Protect Dog Paws

If you plan to stroll with your Fido in an outdoor event for a long time, getting a dog stroller is an excellent option.

These dog strollers are understandably only for puppies or small dogs. Large dogs will struggle to fit in and be comfortable in them.

However, remember that walking or any other physical activity is still important for dogs; a stroller shouldn't be an excuse to forego exercise.

9. Wear Dog Socks As An Alternative to Protect Their Paws

If you urgently need to take your dog out, wearing good socks can be a last-minute alternative.

Not all dogs like wearing socks, but it's worth trying. Just make sure the socks have rubber or neoprene soles to protect their feet. 

It's important to note, though, that sock soles are thinner than shoe soles, and your Fido might get tempted to chew them, so always keep an eye out!

10. Toughen Their Paws on Cold Pavements

Cooler times of the day are perfect for a stroll on the pavement because hard and rough surfaces can potentially help toughen their pads, the same way you can develop calluses on your hands!

As a result, your dog's paws can exhibit natural heat resistance and avoid burns in the long run.

This way, the next time they step on warm pavement, their feet will not be easily burned.

However, there's no scientific evidence that supports this (as of writing), so take this advice with a grain of salt!

Signs Your Dog's Paws Are Burned After Walking on a Hot Pavement

A dog's feet have fur coverings that protect them, but there's a part that's not covered with fur — their paw pads.

The role of a paw pad is to cushion their feet from rough surfaces and provide shock absorption and traction. However, they're not burn-resistant. 

Dog paws are composed of five distinct components:

• Claws – arched structures located at the base of every toe that assist with foot stability, especially when running, maneuvering, and digging.
• Digital pads – support and accommodate every toe; absorb most of a dog's weight, which relieves stress on the bones and joints.
• Metacarpal & Metatarsal pads – the most prominent pads at the front and back of the paw, made of a thick layer of fatty tissue.
• Dewclaw – extra toe on the inside of a dog's front leg, much like a thumb that helps dogs firmly grasp things
• Carpal pad – positioned directly above the dewclaws; acts like a “brake” while sprinting.

It can be tricky to know since canines tend to mask their pain.

However, the following signs may indicate that heat is already causing burns on their paws:

• Chewing or licking feet
• Limping and excessive tapping
• Paw pads became darker than usual
• The presence of blisters or redness on their paw pads
• Cracks and other damage on their paws
• Pulling their feet when asked to walk on hot pavement

Even if your beloved Fido doesn't show these signs of pain, regularly checking their paws is still necessary, especially every time after a walk.

Not only will you know their paw's health status, but you will also see other potential problems like ingrown nails or infections at an early stage!

First Aid for Burned Dog Paws Due to Hot Pavement

If you notice the signs mentioned above, do these first-aid steps immediately to alleviate the pain:

1. Carry your pet back home to prevent further paw damage and exposure to hot pavement.
2. Wash your dog's paws with cold water. Allow the water to run for 10 to 15 minutes to reduce the heat and pain.
3. Dry it off and assess the injuries. If the burn is mild, you can apply a cold compress and/or 100% aloe vera gel or petroleum jelly.
4. Protect the paw with a clean, breathable wrap or socks to prevent them from licking the injury. If necessary, you can use a cone to restrain them.
5. Bring your dog to the vet regardless of the extent of the injury, but especially for a more serious burn. The vet may prescribe pain relievers and/or antibiotics when necessary.

RELATED: Healing Homemade Dog Paw Balm

 

FAQs

How long do burned dog paws take to heal?

A burned paw pad can take anywhere between 7 and 10 days to heal. During this time, it's essential to dress and clean their burn regularly, as directed by your veterinarian.

Also, do not let them lick it, as this can only further the damage!

What are the stages of a dog's paw pad healing?

While your dog's paw pad is healing, you will see it in four different stages: the inflammation when the injury is fresh; the debridement, when you see it peeling off and shedding old, damaged tissues; repair, when new skin starts to form; and maturation, when the new tissue reinforces and strengthens.

Can I soak my dog's foot in Betadine?

Yes, Betadine is safe for dogs when diluted to the color of weak tea, and as long as they don't lick it, as it can cause toxicity.

Just like in humans, Betadine acts as an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection.

Also, it's best to use this under your vet's supervision. Wrong administration can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Always Protect Your Dog's Paws! Before You Go…

To keep your dog's paws healthy when walking on pavements, it's essential to take proper care of them.

The old world saying that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure may be cliché, but it's always true for your Fido's paws!

Learn more about dog paw care by browsing through our recommended articles linked below!

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• How to Clean Dog Paws After a Walk
• Healing Homemade Dog Paw Balm
• 7 Ways to Keep Dog Paws Healthy