Chilly temperatures and snowy sidewalks do not mean that you and your dog need to stay indoors all winter long.
Regardless of the weather, a dog’s exercise requirement stays constant throughout the year. It’s important to maintain walks or other activities to prevent hyperactive behavior during the winter months.
With just a few simple preparations, you can enjoy walks outside no matter what Mother Nature has in store. But, before you head out into the elements, follow these tips to make sure your dog is prepared.
Dog walking gear
While most dogs can stay outside in the cold for short periods of time without any type of protection, longer walks require a few things to keep them comfortable.
Consider a jacket for puppies, older dogs, and breeds with short hair. Look for one that is water resistant, and check throughout the walk to make sure it is staying dry. We all know there’s nothing worse than wearing wet clothes in the cold — your dog feels the same way!
Regardless of breed or age, all dogs can benefit from paw protection on winter walks. Dog boots are sock-like booties that fit over your dog’s paws and have a Velcro strap to keep them in place. Some have soles or traction on the bottom to provide additional stability on snow and ice.
However, not all dogs will tolerate wearing booties. If your dog falls in this category, try associating them with treats to change behavior and putting them on for short periods of time at first.
Finally, in order for a winter dog walk to be truly successful, humans needs to have proper gear. This includes a heavy jacket, gloves, boots, a hat, and maybe even a few hand warmers. Don’t cut your dog’s exercise short because you are not prepared for conditions outside.
Preparing for the walk
Paw pads need a little protection before they step into booties or directly out onto the snow and ice. Deicing chemicals can cause a burning feeling and create long term damage to paw pads if they are not protected. Many varieties are available in pet stores, but nontoxic products for humans will work as well.
In addition, trim the hair around the paws to prevent crowding in the booties or ice from forming in it. This will make it easier to put booties on or apply paw balm.
As you can see, walking a dog in the winter is not quite as simple as picking up a leash and heading out the door like it might be during warmer months. Make sure you allow enough time to make the
Chilly temperatures and snowy sidewalks do not mean that you and your dog need to stay indoors all winter long.
Regardless of the weather, a dog’s exercise requirement stays constant throughout the year. It’s important to maintain walks or other activities to prevent hyperactive behavior during the winter months.
With just a few simple preparations, you can enjoy walks outside no matter what Mother Nature has in store. But, before you head out into the elements, follow these tips to make sure your dog is prepared.
During the walk
If your dog is new to walking in snow or ice, start slowly and stick to well-traveled routes. Stay away from snowdrifts or large piles of snow, which can have sharp objects hiding underneath.
Try not to let your dog eat snow. Most snow in heavily-traveled routes is going to be filled with toxic de icing chemicals that could cause damage if ingested. The same applies for antifreeze that may be pooled up along the side of the road. It looks like water to a dog and has a sweet taste, but can be very dangerous or even deadly.
Along the way, watch out for shivering or other signs that it’s time to head home. You’ll know what these are in your dog. Don’t mistake them for laziness; in the wintertime, it’s much more likely that your dog is cold or need to get its paws off of the snow and ice.
After the walk
Just as you prepared before the walk, there are a few steps that need to be taken after a winter walk with your dog.
Many deicers used on sidewalks contain toxic chemicals that can be damaging if left on paws or licked off. Clean your dog’s paws thoroughly with warm water and pet-safe soap as soon as possible after returning home. This will also help cold paws warm up and transition to being back inside.
Much like humans, dogs can develop frostbite from prolonged exposure to the cold. Check for signs like hard patches of skin that does not warm up after coming inside, and consult your veterinarian if the condition does not improve.
A heated dog bed is a great option for helping your dog warm up after a walk. If you don’t have one, a few blankets will do the trick.
Just as you prepared before the walk, there are a few steps that need to be taken after a winter walk with your dog.
Many deicers used on sidewalks contain toxic chemicals that can be damaging if left on paws or licked off. Clean your dog’s paws thoroughly with warm water and pet-safe soap as soon as possible after returning home. This will also help cold paws warm up and transition to being back inside.
Much like humans, dogs can develop frostbite from prolonged exposure to the cold. Check for signs like hard patches of skin that does not warm up after coming inside, and consult your veterinarian if the condition does not improve.
A heated dog bed is a great option for helping your dog warm up after a walk. If you don’t have one, a few blankets will do the trick.
Have fun!
The winter season is a great time to let your dog experience a whole new side of walking. The chill in the air can be invigorating for both you and your dog. With a little preparation and attention, you and your dog will be in for months of great walks.
A dog walking service is another great option for winter months. Put your dog in the hands of trained professionals who can care for your dog no matter what the weather.
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