Question 1

Is it too hot to walk my dog in Des Moines, IA today?

Accepted Answer

Today's high in Des Moines, IA is 56°F with a low of 33°F and 1% rain chance. The feels-like temperature is 50°F. Conditions are within a manageable range for most dogs today.

Question 2

What's the best time to walk a dog in Des Moines, IA in April?

Accepted Answer

In Des Moines, IA during April, the best time to walk a dog is typically before 9 AM or after 7 PM to avoid peak heat and UV exposure. The dog walk index on this page scores each hour using feels-like temperature (25%), rain probability (25%), humidity (20%), UV index (15%), wind speed (10%), and air quality (5%) — giving you a 0–100 score for every time window.

Question 3

What temperature is too hot for a dog walk in Des Moines, IA?

Accepted Answer

Most veterinarians recommend avoiding walks when the feels-like temperature exceeds 85°F. Asphalt in cities like Des Moines, IA can reach 130°F or more when air temperatures hit the low 80s on sunny days. Use the 7-second hand test: if you cannot hold your bare hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, the surface is too hot for your dog's paws. Today's feels-like in Des Moines, IA is 50°F.

Feels Like	39°F
Today's High	56°F
Today's Low	33°F
Rain Chance	1%
UV Index	8 of 11
Humidity	66%
Wind Speed	16 mph
Conditions	Clear
Currently	50°F · feels 50°F
Walk Score	82/100 — Perfect — get outside now

Des Moines, IA Dog Walk & Outdoor Index

Walk Score & Best Time Windows

Feels-Like Temp, Humidity & UV Today

How the Dog Walk Score Is Calculated

Current Conditions & What They Mean