Tips for Safely Walking Your Dog In Winter Weather

By Lauren Lee

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Image Courtesy of Pixabay

 

The cold, dark days of winter are here. The low temperatures and slippery outdoor conditions can pose some real risks to you and your pet, and dampen your motivation for outdoor exercise.

No matter how cold you feel, your dog still needs exercise in the winter months. The chances are that if he doesn’t get it, he will find a less desirable outlet for his energy. A dog with excess energy may turn to destructive behaviors such as chewing and destroying household items. Unfortunately, these negative behaviors may continue into the warmer months.

So rather than let winter weather keep you and your pooch indoors, use these tips to make winter walks a safe part of your routine.

How cold is too cold for your dog?

There is no exact number when it comes to an outdoor temperature that is safe for your dog. The dog’s size, breed, age, health, and other factors all play a role. However, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

  • Wind chill lowers the actual feel of the temperature. So, when determining the outdoor temperature, always factor in the wind chill.

  • Your dog’s body temperature will lower considerably faster in the presence of moisture. If conditions are wet or snowy, it is a good idea to shorten your walk.

  • If the temperature is below 0 degrees, your dog should not be out walking.

  • If the temperature is below freezing, puppies, older dogs, and dogs with health problems should be taken outside only to do their business.

  • Fifteen minutes is about the maximum most dogs can walk on frigid surfaces without footgear.

Bundle up

Make sure you are wearing enough layers to keep you comfortable. Long underwear makes a great added layer under jeans and sweaters. Wear insulating layers on top to retain body heat. Top that off with a warm, wool sweater and water-resistant outer layer.

If you live in an area where snow is the norm, wearing waterproof snow pants over your clothes provides extra protection against dampness.

Always keep your head and hands covered. Make sure you are wearing warm gloves that allow for the natural movement of your fingers. You want to be able to comfortably grip your dog’s leash, pick up after him, and remove debris from his coat or paws without having to remove your gloves.

Waterproof boots or shoes that have excellent traction are essential. If you will be navigating icy surfaces, it is best to have a pair of YakTrax or similar traction cleats that can easily slip over the bottom of your shoes for added grip.

Cover up your pup

Dogs with long or thick coats are naturally protected against the cold, and most healthy dogs can tolerate walking out in cold weather for brief periods. However, some dogs need more help in regulating their body temperature. This is particularly true of very young and very old dogs, hairless or short-haired breeds, and smaller dogs who are closer to the ground

Puppies and elderly dogs, as well as dogs who already suffer from chronic illnesses, are more at risk of developing hypothermia if exposed to the cold for too long.

If you live in a cold area, you should invest in a decent jacket for your dog. It should repel moisture to prevent snow from seeping in. It should also be easy to put on. Make sure you can easily attach a leash to the coat or reach the collar through it. Remember to measure your dog and follow the sizing instructions if you are ordering the coat. A proper fit is crucial to protect against the elements

Pay attention to your pooch

Always watch your dog’s body language on walks. If it is too cold for him to continue walking, he will let you know by picking his feet up in discomfort, shivering, or stopping in his tracks.

The following are signs that your dog needs to get out of the cold immediately:

  • Shivering

  • Lifting paws up

  • Licking paws

  • Whining

Wipe your paws

Make a habit of wiping your dog’s paws when you come in from your walk. Roads, driveways, and sidewalks contain salt and other chemicals used in ice melt during the winter. Other hazards like antifreeze also end up on road surfaces.

You want to remove any chemicals or irritants from your dog’s paws before he licks them, as they can be dangerous if ingested. They can also irritate his paw pads.

You can either use a wet washcloth or buy premoistened pet-paw wipes.

Walk during daylight

If possible, walk during the day when it is light out. Not only is it warmer outside, but you and your dog will be most visible to traffic at this time.

Keep in mind that some dogs will enjoy the cold more than others, and winter walks may take some getting used to (for both dog and owner). With some proper precautions, you and your dog can safely take regular walks as part of your winter exercise routine.

 

https://www.petful.com/pet-health/winter-dog-walking-tips/
https://dogtime.com/how-to/pet-safety/30195-things-dog-owners-need-winter
https://blog.homesalive.ca/tips-for-walking-your-dog-in-winter
http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/does-your-dog-hate-winter-walks-5-expert-tips-to-make-outings-easier
http://www.vetstreet.com/dr-marty-becker/our-dog-chews-on-everything-how-can-we-make-him-stop
http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diseases-conditions-a-z/hypothermia-and-your-pet
https://www.dogsloverunning.com/how-cold-is-too-cold-to-walk-the-dog/

Jade Green