Since it's officially summer time here in the United States we need to start thinking about how hot not only we can get during the day but also how hot the pavement gets because we walk our dogs on that hot pavement and it can do damage. If you have ever walked barefoot across a parking lot in the summer time you know it hurts. It's the same thing for your dog. We cannot think just because they are animals and have paw pads that they are indestructible because that is simply not the case. If they walk too long on the hot pavement it will burn the skin off those pads.
This is what can happen if your dog is allowed to walk to long on the hot pavement. It's painful and obviously need treatment. If you live in a place where it doesn't get hot then you will need to protect their little feet from extreme cold if that is your weather. Most cold weather places do use mitts on their dogs paws to protect them from the ice and snow. That is something that will protect your dog from the heat as well. Just be careful that this doesn't overheat your dog because animals release heat through the pads in their feet as well as their tongues and other mucus membranes so pay very close attention to their breathing and take water along for them as well so they can cool off too. Walking in the shade or grass is best, if possible. If it's too hot for you to go without shoes it will be too hot for your dog.
http://www.activedogs.com/product.php?id=125
http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2753821
The above links are for two types of mittens for your dog's paws when walking in cold or hot weather. I highly recommend these for hot summer days and cold snowy or icy weather or if you just want to keep your dog from sliding on slick surfaces to prevent shoulder and hip injuries. It will be a very weird sensation for them at first but they will get used to it and will be pros at walking in them in no time!
If you have concerns about this please ask your vet or trainer to get suggestions or advice. We want your pet as safe as possible.
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