As the winter chill sets in, it’s essential for dog owners to adapt their routines to ensure their furry friends stay healthy and happy. Cold weather brings its own set of challenges for dog walking, but with a bit of preparation and care, you and your canine companion can still enjoy the great outdoors.
These are some useful tips for walking your dog in cold weather if it doesn’t feel as enjoyable in the bleak weather.
I love walking my dogs in the Summer, I find it very therapeutic strolling around the local parks and woods. But when Autumn approaches and the days get colder, walking your dog in winter can feel like so much more of a chore.
Needs must and your dog will still need to go for their walk in the cold. These tips will help make the walk more bearable for you.
Walking Your Dog In the Cold
Should you walk your dog in the winter?
Absolutely! Just make sure both you and your dog go out prepared. For your dog, their daily walks are likely to be the favourite part of their day so do not miss them.
Paw Protection
Snow and ice can be harsh on your dog’s paws. To protect them, consider using dog-friendly paw balms or even booties. This not only shields their paws from salt and ice but also prevents painful cracks and irritation. Before heading out, check their paws for any signs of discomfort or injury.
Stay Visible
Winter days can be dark, so it’s crucial to enhance visibility during walks. Invest in reflective gear for both you and your dog. Collars, leashes, and even doggy coats with reflective strips will make you both more visible to motorists, reducing the risk of accidents. You more than likely will come across other dog walkers during this time as well, so you should also make sure to keep your distance because you don’t know how other dogs will be around yours especially if you cannot see them well. If you do get into some problems with an aggressive dog and you are hurt in the process, you will need to visit sites such as https://www.warforhou.com/
Wear a warm coat
The main reason for my dislike is that I don’t like getting excessively cold. This year I got myself a super really cosy longline parker style coat to keep the chill off.
It is longer than normal length, so it completely covers me down to just above my knees and is a good size hood. I can wear the hood up and it doesn’t obscure my vision and fall over my eyes, it is a perfect size. Paired with a scarf and gloves on those particularly cold days, I am ready to brace against the cold.
When it is raining and miserable I wear a waterproof raincoat to ensure I stay nice and dry. Wearing a waterproof coat will make sure your clothes stay dry and you are likely to feel the cold less.
Also, invest in a good dog coat so they are nice and dry too.
Some breeds of dogs have low body fat and can get colder quicker than others. This is something to consider when buying the correct type of coat for your dog.
A dog coat can also help reduce the wet dog smell in your home after their walks, which I think is a huge bonus.
Dogs can develop hypothermia quicker than expected in the cold weather, it is advisable to keep your dog walks shorter but more frequent where possible. For example, 2 half-hour walks rather than 1-hour walk.
Appropriate Footwear
My Wellington boots are my favourite footwear for walking the dogs in the park. I have 2 types of wellingtons, 1 thick rubber pair and a slightly thinner pair too.
As well as wellingtons, I have walking boots. I wear these when we are going to a park with a path route. Rather than just across the fields. Deciding on what footwear to use depends on if it is raining and where I am planning on walking the dogs.
Dogs can not choose. Their paws can get irritated and cause discomfort if they have excess mud build up in between their pads.
It is a good idea to ensure the hair between the toes is carefully trimmed if they require grooming. This will avoid any ice, snow or mud clumping during or after walks. You can do this yourself, or you can take them to dog grooming specialists so that you know they are being handled carefully.
Adjust Your Walking Schedule
Shorter days mean less daylight, so plan your walks accordingly. Aim for daytime walks when visibility is better and temperatures are relatively milder. If daylight is limited, consider investing in a quality LED light for your dog’s collar to maintain visibility during evening strolls.
Hydration Matters
Even in colder temperatures, dogs need access to water. Dry winter air can be dehydrating, so ensure your pup stays well-hydrated by providing water before and after walks. Consider carrying a collapsible bowl and a small bottle of water for longer excursions.
Know Your Dog’s Limits
Not all dogs are built for cold weather, so pay attention to your pup’s behaviour during walks. If they start shivering or lifting their paws, it’s time to head indoors. Older dogs, puppies, and those with health issues may be more susceptible to the cold, so adjust your walking routine accordingly.
Ensure there is a cosy bed for your dog to come home to and warm itself up after.
Embrace the season and make the most of your time together, creating lasting memories in the winter wonderland. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the frosty adventures with your furry friend!
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Great tips! My dogs have long hair and always get ice balls in between the toes – ouch!
Thanks for the tips! I was struggling to walk my dog.
Bought my Frenchie a coat as you suggested. It makes a big difference! Thanks!
Great tips. My dog is called Max who is a Yorkie. He tends to walk less now but loves his new coat I bought him yesterday
Thankyou for the tips, my dog freaks out when I put a jacket on, she’s a rescue so I have no idea how I’m gonna keep her warm in winter! X
Thanks for shaing these excellent tips. I walk my dogs myself most of the time but often leave them with dog walkers from barkindustries.com, will keep all these in mind when taking my dogs out for walks and make sure the walkers take care of these! My dogs love the winter season!