Vet settles debate on what time of day is best to walk your dog

Taking the dog out for a walk isn’t just beneficial for your pets. It also gives owners a chance to exercise and relax. Life can be hectic, making it difficult to fit a dog walk around our busy schedules.

Some owners like to get up at the crack of dawn to get their furry friends out bright and early, while others use a dog walk to unwind in the evenings after a long day at work. You may not have realised, but some experts suggest that there are certain times of the day that are better than others for your dog’s benefit.

Veterinarian Dr Jacqueline Brister explained that the timing of your dog walk can have consequences for your pet’s health.

She told Newsweek: “Timing of the walk, as well as foot protection, are things to think about before heading out. When temperatures are very high or very low, consider the temperature of the pavement and a dog’s paws.”

She added that it is best to walk your dogs in the morning or the evening, especially in the summer, as this helps to avoid the hottest part of the day, ensuring your pup doesn’t suffer from dehydration.

Dr Brister continued: “Dogs at higher risk for overheating should be walked early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are coolest. At-risk dogs include obese dogs, those with heart disease, those with upper airway disease or dysfunction, and brachycephalic breeds.

“Avoid walking dogs that are at higher risk for sunburn in the middle of the day when the sun is high. At-risk dogs include hairless or sparsely haired breeds, dogs with shortly shaved coats, and dogs with white or light pigmented hair.”

As August draws closer in the UK, this advice will be useful to dog owners across the country in the coming weeks.

Village Vet, a practice in London, also offers some useful advice for owners walking their dogs.

Vets’ advice for dog owners on walks:

-Always ensure your dog is hydrated with a portable bottle or bowl.

-Avoid walking during the hottest part of the day

-Don’t walk your dog on hot pavements, especially in the summer

-Don’t put unnecessary extra clothing on your dog

-Take a break in the shade if it is a hot day

-Give your dog cold water after the walk to cool down and rehydrate