Pavement, asphalt, and concrete absorb and retain heat much more than natural surfaces like grass or soil. On a sunny day, even if the air temperature seems moderate, these surfaces can reach scorching temperatures that can severely burn your dog’s paws. A good rule of thumb is that if the air temperature is 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) or higher, the pavement can easily exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). At this temperature, skin damage can occur in as little as one minute.