Winter weather can really creep up on us, especially if a cold snap hits. While we can wrap up and lose ourselves in layers, the same can’t necessarily be said for our furry friends. In this Closer Pet’s article, we’ll take you through our six top tips for winter dog walking precautions so you and your canine pal can really enjoy this most wonderful time of the year.
Our tips on dog winter walking precautions
Though your pooch will be as excited as ever to go for a walk with you in winter, it’s important to make sure that they’re well looked after and protected from the cold weather. Not only do you need to give some extra care to your dog, but it’s also equally important to look after yourself! With all this in mind, be sure to take a look at our best tips on dog winter walking precautions to keep your strolls safe and fun for you both:
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Wrap up warm
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Keep stimulated
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Stay safe
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Check up on your pup
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Clean up
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Take a break
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Wrap up warm
Checking the weather forecast is an essential part of any winter outing, even more so when your plans include a furry friend. Being aware of roughly how cold it’s going to be on your walk will help you better prepare for the adventure. For owners, it means knowing how many layers to wear, how long you should be outside, and how to appropriately dress your pet. Keep in mind that some dogs with less fur might need to wear a coat, and smaller dogs or those with sensitive paws may benefit from some boots (yep, you read that correctly!).
Going for walks at the warmest time of day, around midday, may also help keep your pup comfortable in the cold. And, as we experience shorter days and longer evenings, it’s important to make sure your dog is clearly seen outside – why not invest in reflective clothing or an LED collar to help boost visibility and keep your dog safe?
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Keep stimulated
It’s important to switch things up now and then to make the most of your walk. Whether that’s bringing a friend along or choosing a new route, making a change brings new levels of excitement to the daily dog walk and keeps both you and your pup mentally active.
What's more, make sure you’re aware of any potential dangers along the walk, like frozen ponds and streams, and keep an eye out for any uneven ground that could potentially trip you up.
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Stay safe
If you find yourself frequently crossing frozen ground or walking over grit salt, why not buy some paw wax or balm to help protect your pet’s paw pads? Additionally, take extra care to clean any wounds thoroughly, as healing may take longer if your dog’s skin is dry or dehydrated, plus there’s a higher risk of infection.
In the unfortunate event that your pooch strays out of sight, it’s important to make sure all microchip details are correct, so they can easily find their way back to you. And preferably, walk your dog on a lead to make sure they don’t run off and find themselves stuck or lost anywhere they shouldn’t be.
As much as you need to keep your pup safe, it’s important to keep yourself safe too. There are apps available for your phone which track your location and allow you to share it with a friend, or otherwise, you could let a loved one know when and where you’re going out so they know your whereabouts (and are prepared in case of an emergency). Check out apps like WalkSafe and Hollie Guard, and use what3words to identify your precise location at all times.
In the unfortunate event that your pooch strays out of sight, it’s important to make sure all microchip details are correct, so they can easily find their way back to you. And preferably, walk your dog on a lead to make sure they don’t run off and find themselves stuck or lost anywhere they shouldn’t be.
As much as you need to keep your pup safe, it’s important to keep yourself safe too. There are apps available for your phone which track your location and allow you to share it with a friend, or otherwise, you could let a loved one know when and where you’re going out so they know your whereabouts (and are prepared in case of an emergency). Check out apps like WalkSafe and Hollie Guard, and use what3words to identify your precise location at all times.
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Check up on your pup
It’s important to keep checking in with your furry friend. If your pet has had enough, they will tell you, so it’s important to look for signs they’re uncomfortable. Look out for whimpering, shivering, pawing, and licking, and keep checking that their paws aren’t too muddy or wet. If low temperatures become a concern, keep walks short and sweet, and where possible, for larger dogs, go out twice a day for two shorter trips instead of one long walk, to limit time spent outside over a short period.
Making sure both you and your pet have had enough to drink is very important. Take a bottle of water to ensure you stay hydrated on your walk. For your pooch, a bottle designed especially for them, such as our Dog Mate Pet Water Bottle, is a super convenient choice. In the winter weather, giving your dog warm (but not hot) water can even be better for them, so this bottle’s double-wall insulation is perfect. They will likely be tempted more so by it than icy water, and warm water can be more gentle on their stomach, too.
Once you get back home, make sure your dog water fountain is ready for your return to keep your canine companion refreshed throughout the day.
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Clean up
Colder months are the ideal time to take a little more time to pamper your pooch. To clean grubby paws, use pet wipes to gently remove any muck, and for bigger, messier jobs, run a warm bath and give your pup a wash with some dog-safe shampoo. Wrap them up in a towel afterwards to make sure they’re completely dry – it’s the best excuse to get some extra cuddles too!
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Take a break
Remember – don’t feel guilty about having to miss one of your daily walks if you’re feeling particularly tired or run-down. It’s important to take the time to rest, for both you and your pooch, so instead, try taking your pup along to run brief errands and get you both outside.
You could even borrow some tips from owners who don’t walk their dog every day and instead, get creative with your fitness activities. Some of our favourites include:
- Yoga (or ‘doga’) – An ideal indoor exercise, yoga includes poses that can be modified to let your pup join in on the fun – not to mention, the downward dog, of course…
- Swimming – Perfect for those with a dog-friendly local pool (or favourite wild swimming spot in the summer).
- Fetch – A quick game of fetch will get heart rates pumping, and it means you don’t have to be outside for long periods of time.
- Agility training – A great way to get the whole family involved and take advantage of any indoor spaces; why not set up an obstacle course to get your dog moving? You never know – they could be the next Crufts winner!
What temperature should you not walk your dog in winter?
How cold is too cold? Generally, small and medium breeds shouldn’t venture outside when it’s colder than -4°C, but bigger dogs could tolerate slightly cooler temperatures around -9°C. With temperatures capable of becoming incredibly cold overnight in winter, it’s important to stay up to date with weather forecasts to protect you and your pooch.
If you’re ever in doubt about dog walking safety in winter, talk to your vet about any concerns. Remember, comfort and safety are important, but make sure you’re having fun too. Your vet can offer advice and support to help you achieve it all.
Innovative Pet Products at Closer Pets
Now that you know all of our best tips on winter dog walking precautions, you and your canine companion can go for winter walkies that are just as safe as they are fun!
At Closer Pets, we have plenty of useful dog products to make looking after your pup all the easier in winter, and all year round. On our site, you’re sure to find the perfect product for you, with automatic dog feeders, dog water fountains, and dog doors to keep your pup happy and healthy.
If you have any questions about our pet products and how they can benefit both you and your dog, be sure to get in touch with a member of our friendly team today.