5 Tips for Walking Your Dog in the Winter

Winter is full of dog-friendly activities and adventures, yet the cold weather can pose dangers for dogs of all sizes and ages. Whether you want to expend your puppy’s boundless energy or enjoy a winter stroll, it's important to prioritize your dog’s safety and recognize when it’s just too cold to walk your dog.

As the temperatures drop, follow these safety tips for walking dogs in cold weather. When the temperature dips too low, there are plenty of indoor alternatives that will keep your dog happy, healthy, and accident-free.

What Temperature Is Too Cold To Walk Your Dog?

When you venture outside with your dog, you should aim to be in temperatures above 0 degrees C, pet parents should limit cold-weather walks to 30 minutes or less.

That said, what’s safe for one dog might be too cold to walk another dog. Older dogs-such as those with underlying health issues-and puppies are generally more susceptible to cold-weather problems, including frostbite and hypothermia.

Some dog breeds, such as Siberian Huskies and Bernese Mountain Dogs are naturally adapted to cold weather due to their thick, double coats, earning them the moniker "winter dogs." Smaller dog breeds or those with thin coats are more sensitive to the chill.

Hypothermia in dogs is a life-threatening condition. Regardless of breed, age, or overall health, if you notice your dog displaying symptoms of hypothermia, take them inside and call your veterinarian immediately.

Tips for Walking Your Pup in the Cold

Pet parents might be hesitant to take their dogs outside during the cold-weather months, and rightly so but it’s important to safely enjoy the outdoors when you can.

Here are essential tips to keep your dog safe all season long.

1. Never Let Your Pup Off-Leash

“Letting your dog off the lead during winter can be dangerous if you're not careful,” Horniman says. For instance, your dog could inadvertently wander onto a frozen body of water that has a thin layer of ice.

Dogs may also want to explore their wintry surroundings by taste, often lapping up dangerous chemicals such as salt and antifreeze along with melting snow. Prevent potential dangers by keeping your dog securely on their leash and sticking to familiar routes.

When choosing the best leash for winter walks, consider ones with reflectors that increase visibility in low-light conditions. Leashes that offer better control and grip in slippery situations are good to consider.

2. Keep Their Bodies Warm

When you're starting to feel cold enough for a winter jacket, chances are your pup is starting to feel a chill too. It is recommended to keep a well fitting doggy jacket on hand. It should be snug across the entire chest and back but not restrict your dog's movement.

A good winter dog jacket, is especially crucial when low temps are mixed with wind or rain, and for dogs who are less tolerant to cold weather.

3. Keep Their Paws Warm and Safe

Experts recommend wiping dogs’ paws clean after every winter walk. Pets become exposed to rock salt(this is in countries that apply salt on the roads when there is excessive snow) most often when they lick their paws after a walk. This is generally irritating to the feet and can cause mild vomiting and diarrhoea, but it is not toxic in small amounts.

After thoroughly cleaning your dog's paws with chemical free dog wipes, carefully inspect their paw pads for any signs of dryness or cracks. Apply a moisturising balm or petroleum jelly as necessary.

If you notice your dog excessively chewing at their paws and black or discoloured spots on their toes or paw pads, consult your veterinarian, as these could be signs of frostbite.

Alternatively, you can keep your dog's paws safe and warm with dog booties!! Similar to your favourite pair of winter boots, the best winter dog booties will also minimize the risk of slips and falls. Opt for a pair that is waterproof and can withstand your pup's spirited outdoor adventures.