Living in Portugal With a Dog: How to Deal With the Heat Safely
- Ryan Rothon
- Feb 4
- 4 min read
Moving to Portugal with a dog is an exciting step. There is more sunshine, outdoor living, and a relaxed lifestyle. But for many expats arriving from the UK, Ireland, or Northern Europe, one thing comes as a shock very quickly: the heat is no joke, especially for dogs!
Portuguese summers regularly reach 30–40°C, and even spring and autumn days can feel intense compared to cooler countries. This guide explains how to manage the heat safely, what catches most expats out, and how to help your dog adapt comfortably to life in Portugal.
Why Heat Is a Bigger Issue for Dogs in Portugal
Dogs don’t cool themselves the same way humans do. They rely mostly on panting, with only limited ability to release heat through their paws.
In Portugal, heat risk is higher because of:
Long hours of direct sunlight
Hot pavements, tiles, and stone paths
Dry inland heat or humid coastal air
Homes without air conditioning (very common!)
Dogs that tend to struggle more include:
Puppies and older dogs
Flat-faced breeds (French Bulldogs, Pugs, Bulldogs)
Large or heavy-coated breeds
Dogs that aren’t yet acclimatised (this can take time, so be careful in the early months)
How Dog Routines Change in Portuguese Summers
One of the biggest adjustments expats need to make is changing daily routines.
Local Portuguese dog owners typically:
Walk dogs early in the morning (around 6–8am)
Avoid walks completely during midday heat
Go out again late in the evening (often after 9pm)
Expect dogs to rest much more during the day
Trying to keep “normal” Northern European walking schedules is one of the most common mistakes new arrivals make.
Hot Pavements in Portugal: A Hidden Danger for Dogs
One of the most underestimated dangers for dogs in Portugal isn’t the air temperature, it’s the ground temperature.
Portuguese pavements, stone paths, tiles, and concrete can become extremely hot, even when the weather doesn’t feel unbearable to humans. Light-coloured pavements often look safe but can retain and reflect intense heat.
Burnt paw pads are very common every summer, especially:
In June, before owners fully adjust routines
New arrivals walking dogs at usual times
On tiled areas, plazas, and pavements
Once paw pads are burned, walking becomes painful and recovery can take weeks.
The Simple Pavement Test Every Dog Owner Should Use
There’s an easy way to check if it’s safe:
Place the palm of your hand flat on the pavement for 5–7 seconds.
If you can’t keep your hand there comfortably, it’s too hot for your dog
If it feels warm but tolerable, keep walks short and stay alert
If it’s cool, it’s generally safe
Dogs can’t tell you their paws are burning until damage is already done, they’ll often just slow down, stop, or refuse to walk.
Safe Walking Tips in Hot Weather
Walk early morning or late evening only in summer
Stick to shaded routes, dirt paths, or grass where possible
Avoid tiled courtyards and stone plazas during the day
Carry water, even for short walks
If your dog suddenly refuses to walk, check the ground first
Hot pavements are one of the most common reasons dogs “randomly” stop enjoying walks in summer.
Keeping Your Dog Cool at Home
Even indoors, heat can build up during Portuguese summers.
Simple cooling strategies:
Let dogs rest on cool tiled floors
Keep shutters or blinds closed during the day
Use fans to move air (not directly at the face)
Offer cooling mats or damp towels
Refresh water bowls frequently
Ice cubes in water are fine, but avoid forcing very cold water if your dog is already overheated, gradual cooling is safer.
Feeding Dogs During Hot Weather
Many dogs naturally eat less during hot periods, which is normal.
Helpful adjustments:
Feed early morning or later in the evening
Avoid heavy meals during peak heat
Focus on hydration
Choose foods that are easier to digest in warmer weather
A dog that feels sluggish or uncomfortable in the heat often benefits from simpler feeding routines during summer.
Signs of Heat Stress or Heatstroke in Dogs
Heatstroke can become serious very quickly. Watch for:
Heavy or frantic panting
Excessive drooling
Weakness, wobbling, or collapse
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Bright red or very pale gums
If you suspect heatstroke:
Move your dog into shade immediately
Offer cool (not ice-cold) water
Gently cool paws, belly, and neck
Contact a vet as soon as possible
Gardens, Balconies, and Outdoor Spaces
Portugal’s outdoor lifestyle is great, but heat can build up fast.
Be cautious with:
Balconies that trap heat
Artificial grass (can get extremely hot)
Gardens without shade
Stone patios and tiled areas
Shade and airflow matter more than space.
Living in Portugal with a Dog: Helping Your Dog Adapt
Most dogs do adapt well, but it takes time.
In the first months:
Reduce daytime activity
Let your dog rest more
Avoid pushing walks
Gradually build heat tolerance
Once routines adjust, dogs can live very happy, active lives in Portugal year-round.
Final Thoughts
Living in Portugal with a dog is incredibly rewarding, but respecting the heat is essential. The biggest shift for expats isn’t the temperature itself, but learning when not to do things.
By adjusting walk times, watching pavements, prioritising cooling, and listening to your dog, you can keep them safe and comfortable through even the hottest Portuguese summers. 🇵🇹 To learn more about adjusting to life as a dog owner in Portugal click here ⚠️ To learn more about other dangers of dog ownership in Portugal click here
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