How to keep your dog cool on summer walks
Long summer days are perfect for getting outdoors with your dog, but hot weather can bring hidden risks. Dogs can overheat quickly, especially on humid days or when walking on exposed paths.
In Hastings and St Leonards, where seaside breezes mix with sunny cliff-tops, it’s important to know how to keep your dog cool and comfortable.
Here are some simple practical tips to make summer walks safe and enjoyable for both you and your four-legged friend.
1. Walk During the Coolest Times of Day
In summer, the middle of the day is often too hot for dogs. Instead, plan walks for early morning or late evening when the air is cooler, pavements have lost their heat, and shady woodland trails feel refreshing. In Hastings, Alexandra Park or the wooded sections of Fairlight Glen are perfect choices.
Tip: Test the pavement with your hand — if it’s too hot to touch for a few seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
2. Choose Shady and Woodland Routes
Hastings and St Leonards are lucky to have a mix of shady woodland and coastal routes. On hotter days, swap exposed cliff paths for cooler adventures through places like Brede High Wood, Battle Wood or Fairlight Glen. Tree cover reduces the heat, keeps the ground damp and soft, and makes the whole walk more pleasant.
3. Keep Water Handy (for Both of You!)
Always bring fresh water and a portable dog bowl. Streams, ponds and lakes along trails like Brede High Wood are a perfect cooling pit stop for the dog can be tempting, but they’re not always safe for drinking. Offer water regularly, especially if your dog is panting more than usual. At the very least, have some water available at the end of the walk in car to offer the dog
Tip: Put a water bottle in the fridge the night before so it stays cooler for longer on your walk.
4. Look Out for Signs of Overheating
Heatstroke in dogs is serious and can develop quickly. Keep an eye out for:
Excessive panting
Drooling or foaming
Red gums or tongue
Lethargy, wobbliness, or collapse
If you notice these signs, stop immediately, get your dog into shade, offer cool (not icy) water, and contact a vet.
5. Let Them Paddle and Splash
Water play is one of the best ways to cool down. Many of Hastings’ adventure spots have streams, ponds or shallow pools where dogs can safely paddle, like the valley stream in Coombe Valley or the lake and running streams around Brede High Wood. Supervise your dog around water, and avoid strong currents or algae-covered pools.
6. Shorter, Gentler Walks Are Fine
Not every walk needs to be a long hike. On hot days, a gentle woodland stroll with plenty of sniffing and shade is often better than a cliff-top sprint. Remember, variety and enrichment matter more than distance.
Final Thoughts
Summer in Hastings is made for adventure, but it’s essential to adapt walks for your dog’s comfort and safety. Stick to cooler times, shady routes, and regular water breaks, and your dog will enjoy their best summer walks yet.
At Ollie’s Adventure Walks, we always tailor adventures to the weather, ensuring dogs get safe, stimulating exercise while staying cool, happy and healthy.