Walking safely in the summer season

Glorious! The sun has drawn nearer, the days are warming up, the birds are singing, who doesn’t want to get outside?

A dalmatian on a walk in a field with it's owner

This is a great opportunity for you and your dog to shed some of those winter layers, from body and mind, and reap the physical and mental benefits of regularly walking outside. Read about the positive impact on us here

As with all seasonal changes, there are new things to consider to keep our dogs happy, healthy and safe….

Sunshine

Throughout the summer the sun’s intensity increases; whilst the powerful effects it can have on our moods are beneficial, the effects on our skin are not. And they extend to our dogs too. Dogs with light coloured, or thin fur, or even bald patches, have little natural protection. Many human sunscreens have compounds which are toxic to dogs who might lick them off; make sure you find a dog-friendly sunscreen or block, of SPF 30+ for your dog; you can even get ones which taste bitter, making it less likely your dog will lick it off. Apply as per the product instructions.

Heat

Taking care your dog doesn’t overheat is a fundamental wellbeing consideration for dog owners; and it doesn’t just apply to when they are inside a car (where they should NEVER be left). Dogs are less able to regulate their body temperature than us as they only sweat from glands between their pads on their paws, mostly relying on panting and location to cool down. For symptoms of overheating and advice, see https://www.agriapet.co.uk/guides-and-advice/when-is-it-too-hot-to-walk-your-dog/

Check the weather forecast in the evening and get up early to walk your dog if it’s going to be hot, or plan to walk them later on around sunset when it’s cooled down a lot. Even by 10am, walking can be too strenuous for some dogs especially:

Larger breeds

Thick/long coated breeds

Overweight dogs

Brachycephalic breeds (such as Pugs and French Bulldogs)

Those with respiratory or other health issues

Walking in shady woodland can also help. When it’s very hot, pavements and roads can become scorching to paws, plan your walk around this too. It’s also a good idea to carry a water bottle so you can hydrate your dog on the walk, and always make sure water is plentifully available at home. Agria’s guide to how much exercise your dog generally needs can be found here

Plants

Just like us, dogs can suffer from hayfever, and other seasonal allergies. If you find your dog keeps sneezing or having weepy eyes it could be because of a high pollen count. Speak to your vet if you are concerned, or book an appointment with a vet on the Agria App.

More concerning is when grass flowers turn into grass seeds. Dogs can suffer great discomfort from seeds getting into their eyes or ears; penetrating the soft tissue between their pads and migrating up their legs; or, worst case scenario, being inhaled and causing life-threatening infections in the lungs or elsewhere. There is no perfect way to prevent any of these things happening, but you can mitigate the risks by:

Avoiding long grass when it has run to seed.

Grooming your dog after walks to spot and rid your dog of any seeds before they cause trouble.

Trim the feathers between your dog’s pads and around their ears – it’s then easier to see any seeds before they become a problem, and they are less likely to get caught in the fur.

If you suspect your dog has inhaled or got a grass seed stuck, seek emergency veterinary attention.

For more information see https://www.agriapet.co.uk/guides-and-advice/dogs-grass-seeds-risks-dangers/

When we have extended periods of hot, dry, calm weather, blue-green algae blooms in standing, or slow-moving water, multiplying rapidly and releasing toxins into the water. Do not let your dog play or swim in water where you suspect algal blooms to be present as this can lead to poisoning or even death.

Animals

The warm summer months make perfect breeding conditions for ticks and fleas, both of whom are very happy to make their homes on your dog, or even you! There are plenty of options for preventative treatments so make sure you discuss these with your vet. However, before your dog brings them into your home, a simple way to reduce your guests is to give your dog a quick brush when returning from a walk, especially if you have been through long grass, or wooded areas. And if you do find a tick has attached itself, use a tick removal tool.

Harder to prevent are snake bites. In the UK the Adder is our only poisonous snake, and if your dog is unlucky enough to get bitten, emergency medical treatment is needed. Snakes like to hide under bushes or hedges, or bask in sunshine on sandy paths. Noses and paws can startle or frighten snakes, and these are the areas most commonly bitten. If you suspect an Adder has bitten your dog, try to keep your dog calm and, if possible, carry them back to your home or car. Allowing them to continue exerting themselves will speed up the circulation of the venom in their system. Read about one curious Labrador’s lucky escape here

By informing yourself of things to watch out for, the summer days can continue to be opportunities to change up your walking routines and enjoy adventures with your dog even more! And, remember, whilst you’re out and about, access to veterinary expertise is in your pocket on the Agria App. Download it today for that extra reassurance https://www.agriapet.co.uk/agria-app/

Written by: Samantha Khan
Last reviewed on: 1 May 2026

About the Author

Sam Khan shares her woodland home with Junior, the cat, Gully, the dog and bunnies Hugo & Billy, sometimes playing the family’s ‘favourite’ game with the tortoise – “Where’s Churchill?” She loves writing for Agria, sharing our passion for animal welfare, protecting biodiversity and the environment. When not writing or illustrating, she will be making something, reading a book or swimming in the lake at the bottom of her lane.