This summer has been a scorcher, with record-setting temperatures and heat waves around the world. People are trying their best to stay cool and healthy, but those with pets are also concerned about their furry friends.

Although dogs famously love to run and play outside, that might not be the wisest move during some of these hot summer stretches. But how can dog owners determine if its OK to go for a walk on any given day and what can they do to keep them safe when they do step out?

Below, pet experts break down what you need to know about taking your dogs outside in the heat.

Check the the heat index, not just temperature.

Generally speaking, it is safe to walk a healthy, adult dog when the heat index is 85 degrees or lower, Dr. Sarah Wooten, a veterinary expert with Pumpkin Pet Insurance , told HuffPost. Note that is a heat index, not just ambient temperature, because humidity also contributes to the heat index.

In humid areas, the acceptable temperature range will likely be lower, so make sure to check the heat index or real feel measurements before going outside with your pet.

Wooten also noted that you might be OK to walk your healthy adult dog in 90-degree weather if you are walking at a leisurely pace on sticking to dirt or grass, not pavement and asphalt.

Consider your dogs breed and individual needs.

Ability to handle heat really depends on the dogs breed, coat and health status, said Erin Askeland, an animal health and behavior consultant at Camp Bow Wow . Dogs with shorter snouts will have a harder time regulating their body temperature and cannot handle hotter temperatures. Dogs with thick coats also may not handle the heat well as they were designed for cold weather. Dogs with health issues, very young, or older dogs may also not be able to handle heat well.

If your dog has any conditions like heart disease, breathing problems or obesity, pay extra care to keep them cool and shaded.

Smush-face breeds, like bulldogs, cannot tolerate heat, Wooten said. Even normal activity for these dogs can be harmful, so keep at-risk dogs inside as much as possible when the heat index is 85 degrees or higher. Also, greyhounds are at increased risk of heat distress than other breeds. Lastly, dont shave double-coated dogs. Their fur actually can protect them from heat Australian shepherds, huskies, goldens, collies, corgis, etc.

Test the pavement.

If where you live is surrounded by pavement, put your hand on the ground, advised Dr. Heather Berst, a veterinarian and medical lead with Zoetis . If it feels too hot to the touch, dont walk your dog on the pavement because their paws could burn.

Askeland recommended seeing if you can comfortably place your hand on the ground and hold it for 10 seconds.

While some dog boots can prevent paws coming in contact with the hot surface, it may simply be too hot to walk your dog regardless of paw protection, she added.

Bring tons of water.

If you determine its safe to take your dog for a walk on a hot day, make sure to carry lots of water with you and offer it throughout the outing. Focus on hydration throughout the summer as well.

Always keep them hydrated, Wooten said. In addition to always having water on hand, you can also offer small amounts of water-rich fruit, like melons or berries. You can also add water to their dry kibble to increase hydration, or toss ice cubes made with chicken broth in the water bowl to entice them to drink more.

Be strategic about timing.

If it is very hot, its better to walk very early or very late in the day to avoid the extreme temperatures and direct sun, Askeland said.

Going out during cooler times of day and keeping those walks short is best for your dogs health.

A quick walk for a bathroom break a few minutes is tolerated by most dogs but the longer the walk, the more risk of overheating, said Dr. Dana Wilhite, a consulting veterinarian with Full Moon Pet .

Treat the walks as a chance to stroll and sniff instead of trying to move quickly or cover a lot of ground, Askeland added.