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How long can a dog stay outside in hot weather before it's unsafe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 months and 2 days old | 55 lbs

Just curious question how long should you leave a dog outside in hot weather for?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on July 9th, 2017

Hi! Dogs should not be left outside for more than an hour, but that is subjective. There is no specific time, it varies from dog breed and temperature. A dog outside is hot weather should be supervised and watched for signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. These would be panting excessively, collapsing or lethargy, or an elevated rectal temperature. If you and unsure about how hot your dog is getting you can take her temperature but inserting a thermometer about one inch into her rectum. A normal temperature is between 99.5-102.5. If she is getting over 103, she has been out for too long and her time outside should be shorter. Also, some dogs with smushed in faces cannot tolerate the heat well at all, so a few minutes outside being active can cause heat exhaustion. Always make sure they have access to cool fresh water at all times. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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