Summer Exercise Tips for Dogs: Keeping Your Pup Fit and Safe in the Heat
When the temperatures soar, staying active gets trickier for both people and pets. Dogs need regular exercise year-round to maintain a healthy weight, strong muscles, and good mental health—but summer’s extreme heat can quickly turn playtime into a health hazard.
At Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness, we specialize in canine fitness and mobility, and we’re here to help you navigate summer exercise safely. Here’s what every pet parent should know about keeping dogs fit, healthy, and safe during the hottest months of the year.
Why Summer Exercise Needs Extra Caution
Dogs don’t sweat like we do. They rely on panting and minimal sweat through their paw pads to regulate body temperature. As a result, they’re more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, older dogs, and those with health conditions or excess weight.
Recognizing that your dog’s comfort zone is different from yours is key. What feels warm to you might be dangerously hot for your pet—especially on pavement or turf that traps heat.
Smart Summer Fitness Tips for Dogs
1. Walk Early or Late
Schedule walks in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid walking during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when sidewalks can become scorching.
Pro tip: Place your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
2. Prioritize Hydration
Always bring fresh water for your dog, especially during outdoor activities. Collapsible bowls or water bottles with attached dispensers make on-the-go hydration easy.
3. Use Shade and Rest Often
Whether you’re playing fetch or hiking, seek shaded areas and take frequent breaks. Heat builds up quickly in active dogs—watch for signs of overheating like excessive panting, drooling, or a bright red tongue.
4. Water Workouts Are Your Friend
Swimming is a great low-impact way to help dogs stay active and cool. Supervised swims in pools, lakes, or with water treadmills can build strength without risking heat exhaustion.
At Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness, we offer hydrotherapy and underwater treadmill sessions designed for dogs recovering from injuries or just looking to stay in shape in a safe, temperature-controlled environment.
5. Stay Indoors on Hot Days
When it’s too hot to go out, bring the fun inside! Try:
- Puzzle feeders
- Tug-of-war
- Hide-and-seek with toys or treats
- Obedience training or learning new tricks
These activities provide both mental and physical stimulation—and keep your dog cool and happy.
6. Watch for Warning Signs
Know the signs of heat-related distress:
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness or lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Collapse
If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area immediately and contact a veterinarian.
Tailoring Summer Fitness for Special Needs
Senior dogs, overweight pups, or those recovering from surgery need customized exercise routines—especially during summer. That’s where professional rehabilitation and fitness centers like Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness can make a difference. Our experienced team develops personalized programs that build strength, improve mobility, and ensure safety in any season.
Want to help your dog stay fit, healthy, and safe this summer? Contact Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness at (908) 454-2273 or visit us at 975 Bloomfield Ave, Suite 1 West Caldwell, NJ 07006 to learn more about our custom canine exercise and hydrotherapy services. Whether your pup is healing from an injury or just needs a safe way to stay active, we’re here to help—every step (and pawprint) of the way.
