Summer in Colorado is one of the best times of year to get outside with your dog. From morning walks in Wheat Ridge to weekend hikes in the foothills, our pets often join us for all of it. But with rising temperatures and increased outdoor activity come a few important considerations to keep your dog safe and comfortable.
One of the most common questions I hear is: Should I shave my dog for summer? The answer depends on the coat. Dogs with long or thick double coats—like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and Malamutes—actually rely on that coat for insulation. Shaving them can interfere with their natural ability to regulate temperature and even increase the risk of sunburn. Regular brushing to remove loose undercoat is far more beneficial than shaving. For dogs with continuously growing hair, like Poodles or Doodles, a summer trim can help with comfort and maintenance, but it should not be taken too short.
Hot pavement is another major concern. Sidewalks and asphalt can heat up quickly in the Colorado sun and burn paw pads. A good rule of thumb: if you can’t comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 5–7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog. Some dogs, especially those with thinner or more sensitive paw pads, may benefit from wearing protective booties.
While it may look excessive, it can prevent painful burns. In extreme heat, yes—carrying your dog across hot surfaces may be necessary.
Timing your outdoor activity is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent heat-related issues. Early morning and late evening walks are best, when temperatures are lower and surfaces have had time to cool. Midday outings should be brief and limited to shaded areas whenever possible.
Heat exhaustion is a real and potentially life-threatening risk. Dogs cool themselves primarily through panting, which is less efficient than sweating. Breeds with short, “smushed” faces—like Bulldogs and Pugs—are especially prone to overheating. Cold-weather breeds like Huskies and Malamutes can also struggle in summer conditions. Signs of heat exhaustion include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, and collapse. If you notice these signs, you should hose your dog off with cool water and then go immediately to your closest emergency veterinary hospital. Do not use ice or ice water. Cool water from the spigot is best.
Many pet owners ask about those communal water bowls outside restaurants and shops. While convenient, they do carry some risk. Shared bowls can spread bacteria, parasites, or respiratory infections between dogs. Bringing your own portable water bowl is a safer option, especially for puppies, senior dogs, or pets with underlying health conditions.
Finally, summer is peak season for parasites. Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations, especially if they frequent dog parks, trails, or boarding facilities. Consistent flea and tick prevention is important in Colorado, particularly in grassy or wooded areas. And don’t forget about heartworm prevention—while less common in our region than in other parts of the country, it is still present and entirely preventable.
Staying proactive about heat, surfaces, hydration, and preventive care will help ensure a fun and healthy season for your four-legged companion.
