PupkeeperCaution
Hot pavement (paw burns) and dogs: what to do
Caution. Hot asphalt and sidewalks can blister and burn paw pads. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paws.
Hot pavement (paw burns) and dogs: key facts
- Verdict
- Caution · Watch at home
- What it can do
- Limping, licking at the feet, red or swollen paw pads, blisters and bleeding from the pads.
- What to do now
- Move your dog onto grass or into shade. All steps
- Sources
- AKC, VCA Animal Hospitals, Merck Veterinary Manual. Reviewed 9 October 2026.
What to do now
- Move your dog onto grass or into shade.
- Gently flush burned pads with cool water.
- Call your vet if the pads look burned or blistered.
- Before walks, hold your hand on the pavement for 10 seconds; if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for paws.
Don't
- Don't walk your dog on pavement during the hottest part of the day.
Symptoms to watch for
- Limping
- Licking at the feet
- Red or swollen paw pads
- Blisters
- Bleeding from the pads
Why
Pavement in the sun can get hot enough to burn paw pads, and walking on it can also push a dog toward heatstroke.
Sources
- AKC: How to Protect Dog Paws From Hot Pavement
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Dog Paw Injuries and How to Help
- Merck Veterinary Manual: What to Do in a Dog or Cat Emergency
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.