The sun's out and it's time for adventure! Aussie summer has finally arrived, which means beach trips, backyard BBQs, and more sunny days to play at the park.
Are you reaching for the sunscreen and sunnies? The summer months can be fantastic for adventures and exploring the outdoors with your furry friends, but it's important to remember that they feel the heat and need sun protection too! If you're not sure how to keep your dog safe in the summer heat, we've put together some summer safety tips to help you and your pup stay happy, healthy, and Zesty.
Can dogs get sunburnt? Protecting Sensitive Skin
Yes, just like us, dogs can get sunburnt!1 If you're going out in the sun, be sure to use a dog-safe sunscreen on any areas of exposed skin, particularly those cute pink noses, ears, and bellies!
In addition to dog-safe sunscreen, you can support the health of their skin by supplementing their diet with omega-3 fatty acids.
Zesty Tip:
Short-haired dogs, dogs with patchy/missing coats, and white-coated breeds may need an extra layer of protection.
Is it safe to walk dogs in the Australian summer heat?
Even on a seemingly mild 25°C day, your dog can be at high risk of heat stroke or burnt paws.2 When it’s hot outside, the footpath can be far hotter than the surrounding air! Surfaces like fake grass and asphalt absorb heat from the sun - when the air is 25°C, asphalt can reach temperatures of over 50°C,3 hot enough to burn your dog's sensitive paw pads!
Before heading out, check the temperature of the path by holding your palm to the path for 5-7 seconds. If you feel the burn, so will their paws! On hotter days, save the walks for the early morning or late evening.
Zesty Tip:
Grass can be cooler for your bestie's paws than asphalt, but don’t let them wander too far - summer is peak snake season in Australia and long grass is one of their favourite hiding spots!
Can I leave my dog in the car?
Pups love road trips, but car interiors can get dangerously hot, FAST! Even with the windows down, the inside of your car can get far too hot for your dog, potentially leading to severe heat exhaustion or worse.4 Remember, the car is not a kennel! If you can’t take them with you, it’s best to leave them at home.
How much water does your dog need on a hot day?
Did you know mammals, including dogs, need an average of 44-66mL of water per day per kg5 of body weight? On hot days, water consumption can double!6 To ensure your canine companion always has access to fresh water, keep their water bowl topped up throughout the day.
Zesty Tip:
Set up multiple hydration stations. If one bowl gets tipped over or ends up in the direct sun, your bestie always has a back-up.
Summer Travel Tips & Hydration for Dogs
Sometimes, a fun summer beach day is just what you and your bestie need! If that’s the case, keep an eye on your dog to make sure they're comfortable, and always remember to bring plenty of fresh water.
The Zesty Paws Omega Boost Starter Pack comes with a 250mL bottle of our Omega Boost Salmon Oil Blend, a poop bag dispenser, and an easy-travel water bottle. The multi-purpose bottle includes a detachable treat container and features an easy-dispensing water bowl for on-the-go hydration.
Aussie Summer Safety Checklist
The Risk |
The Zesty Solution |
|---|---|
| UV Rays | Apply pet-safe SPF to areas of exposed skin |
| Heat Stress | Never leave your dog in a car and limit midday exercise |
| Burnt paw pads on hot pavement/fake grass | Walk during the morning and evening, and test the ground first with the 7-second rule |
| Snakes | Avoid the hottest part of the day and stick to clear paths |
| Dehydration | Have multiple water stations and always bring water with you |
If your dog is showing any signs of heat exhaustion or distress, contact your vet immediately.
References
- Vetwest Animal Hospitals. Sunburn and your dog. https://www.vetwest.com.au/pet-library/sunburn-and-your-dog/ [Accessed Jan 2026].
- Petstock. Warning: Hot pavements burn dogs' paws – is your dog safe? https://www.petstock.com.au/blog/articles/warning-hot-pavements-burn-dogs-paws-is-your-dog-safe [Accessed Jan 2026].
- Four Paws Australia. Hot asphalt – A danger to your dog's paws. https://www.four-paws.org.au/our-stories/publications-guides/hot-asphalt-a-danger-to-your-dogs-paws [Accessed Jan 2026].
- RSPCA Queensland. Dogs die in hot cars. https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/what-we-do/welfare-awareness/companion-animals/dogs-die-in-hot-cars [Accessed Jan 2026].
- MSD Veterinary Manual. Nutritional requirements of small animals: Water. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals [Accessed Jan 2026].
- Agriculture Victoria. Caring for animals during extreme heat. https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/livestock-health-and-welfare/caring-for-animals-during-extreme-heat [Accessed Jan 2026].
