Walking in a Winter Wonderland:
Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Cold
Brrr! Us humans know that a thick coat and a good moisturizer are essential for staying warm and comfortable in these chillier months. Why should our pups be any different? Keep your dog safe and happy during the winter season by following the below tips:
1) Keep Warm
If your dog already has a thick coat of fur, they may not need an additional layer. But if your dog’s fur is on the thinner side, they will likely benefit from wearing a sweater or a coat when going outside. A good coat should reach from the neck to the base of the tail and also protect the belly. Keep in mind, however, that even the coziest coat will not prevent frostbite on the ears, feet, or tail, so don’t keep your short-haired dog out too long in freezing temperatures.
Remember that it’s never a good idea to shave your dog’s fur down to the skin during the winter. If you need to keep your dog groomed, simply give their hair a trim. Don’t forget the hair between their toes!
2) Keep Hydrated
Considering the drier air in winter months, the chances of dehydration are higher and therefore certain measures should be taken. Be sure your dog has easy access to a water bowl during the day, and in order to maintain the essential oils their skin naturally produces, be sure to bathe your dogs as little as possible during the winter. When you do, consider using a moisturizing shampoo. You may also consider adding a skin and coat supplement to their food, such as fish oils, to further help fend off flakes.
3) Keep Clean
Snow and salt are a couple of winter’s worst offenders when it comes to pups and their comfort levels. To prevent their paws from getting caked with snow, ice, salt, or any other ice-melting chemical, try using pet booties or shoes. If your dog isn’t a fan of them, try using petroleum jelly or another paw protector. Just be sure to always do a paw check-and-clean immediately after each walk for the above offenders listed.
Keep in mind that longer hair between their paw pads will pick up and hold onto more salt, ice, and chemical agents that can dry their skin. Keeping them trimmed will help keep them clean (and comfy)!
4) Keep Comfy
There’s no getting around the cold weather, but there are certainly ways to minimize its effect on your dog. If possible, try walking them in the late morning or early afternoon hours when temperatures are a little warmer, and avoid early morning or late evening walks.
It’s important to keep in mind that our senior dogs are often more sensitive to cold weather, and existing medical conditions, particularly arthritis, can get aggravated. Maintaining an exercise regimen is crucial, however, to keeping them healthy, happy, and as active as possible. Simply follow the tips above and be mindful of slippery surfaces. They will also appreciate having a warm, soft rest area to come home to.
When walking your dog in the winter, a general rule of thumb to remember is that if it is too cold for you, then it is probably too cold for your pet. Do your best to keep them active and keep safety first.
Oh, and don’t forget to end the walk with a cuddle session on the couch. It can be a great way for everyone to warm up!
~TheK9PT
Dr. Francisco Maia, PT, DPT, CCRT
In collaboration with:
Dr. Aliya Bahjet, PT, DPT
Professional Writer and Physical Therapist