Is it too hot to walk your dog right now?
Air temperature hides the danger. In direct sun, asphalt runs 40–60°F hotter than the air. Enter your city to estimate the pavement temperature and whether it’s safe for paws.
The 7-second test
Press the back of your hand flat on the pavement for 7 seconds. If you can’t hold it there comfortably, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. This checker estimates the same surface temperature from live weather — air temp, time of day, sun angle, and cloud cover — so you can decide before you leave the house.
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Hot pavement & dog paws — FAQ
How much hotter is pavement than the air?+
In direct sun, asphalt can be 40–60°F hotter than the air temperature. On an 85°F day, pavement can reach 130–140°F — hot enough to burn a dog's paw pads in under a minute.
What is the 7-second test?+
Press the back of your hand flat against the pavement for 7 seconds. If it's too hot to hold comfortably, it's too hot for your dog's paws. This tool estimates the same thing from live weather so you can check before you head out.
Why do flat-faced breeds need stricter limits?+
Brachycephalic breeds — pugs, bulldogs, French bulldogs, Boston terriers — overheat faster and tolerate less heat. Walk Window lowers their safety thresholds by about 15°F. Toggle the flat-faced option above to see the difference.
What temperature is dangerous for dog paws?+
Paw pads are at risk of burns once the surface reaches roughly 120°F (caution) and clearly dangerous near 140°F. Grass and shade stay far cooler than asphalt in the same conditions.
