No Cold Paws: 5 Ways To Prepare Your Dog For Walks In Colder Weather
Now that Halloween costumes are tucked away, it’s time to swap the spooky for the snug, and think about how to keep your dog warm, safe, and stylish on frosty walks. Cold-weather safety is clearly top of mind for pet parents, as proven by Google queries for “dog winter coats” soaring 118% in the U.S. this past week. For most regions, the weather feels more unpredictable every year, making it even more important to think ahead for our pups. Many dog owners assume their pets adapt to colder days right along with us—and so a cute coat will suffice. While a new outfit is great, of course, real preparation also means paying attention to things like icy sidewalks, more time inside, and other little comforts that help dogs handle shifting seasons with ease.
To help pet parents prepare, Annie-Mae Levy, CPDT-KA, professional dog trainer and behaviorist at Woofz, a dog and puppy training app, shares 5 tried-and-true tips for keeping dogs happy and healthy when the temperature drops.
How to prep for walks when it’s getting colder
Keep walks in the cold short
Annie-Mae shares a simple rule to follow when you’re not sure whether the temperature outside is safe for your dog: “If it’s too cold for you to stay comfortable, it’s probably too cold for a dog. When the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), cut your walks short (15 min or so would do), and if it’s 21°F (-6°C) or lower, stick to quick potty breaks only. This tip is particularly relevant for puppies, senior dogs, and short-haired breeds that don’t have a lot of natural resources to weather low temperatures.” And since colder air can make dogs a bit less comfortable holding their bladder (especially seniors), Annie-Mae suggests a quick early-evening trip to prevent midnight urgencies.
Let the winter wardrobe enter the game
If your dog isn’t exactly made to endure Nordic temperatures, it’s your time to shop for a comfy and handy extra layer. Annie-Mae points out dogs need protection from the temperatures, but also from the chemicals on the ground: “A snuggle jacket, a comfy sweater, and a good pair of booties make a huge difference in keeping your pup warm and protected from ice or salt. Let your dog wear a new outfit at home first. You can create a positive association by putting on some boots while having a meal or treats. Gradually develop this habit before heading out.”
She also suggests adding a bit of training before you even step outside. “Dogs often bolt out the door and immediately hit slick steps or icy patches. A trained two-second pause prevents slips, and it also gives you time to scan the ground first.”
Protect the paws
Speaking of boots, those are especially important if your walking paths get snowy or icy. Annie-Mae says: “The salt and deicers are dangerous, too: they can irritate the skin and cause microcracks. Also, the salt used on roads can be toxic if licked off the paws. Try using a paw balm before walks, or putting on quality dog boots. Once you’re home, wipe and dry their paws thoroughly.”
Pick up the clues in your dog’s behavior changes
You can plan for a lot of things, and still there’s a chance your dog won’t like the sudden change between cozy home and chilly outside. Reading their body signals is very important. Annie-Mae warns dog owners to look out for signs like shivering, lifting up paws cautiously, or trying to hide: “These are all clear signs they’re finished. Head home, wrap them in a blanket, and let them warm up gradually to avoid a swift temperature change.”
Keep your pet’s mind active indoors
When it’s frosty outside, it’s important to provide enough stimuli inside. “Balance shorter walks with mental stimulation games at home. Especially for energetic breeds, make sure your pet has got enough challenge at home to compensate for the lack of outdoor play. A game of tug-of-war or stair sprints are good for dogs who need more active exercise. Use sniffing mats to stimulate their curiosity a bit extra, or check out new commands from the Woofz app. This will help loosen up and keep your dog in shape, no matter the weather.”
A little planning, a little awareness, and a few cozy add-ons go a long way toward making cold days calm and manageable for your pet. Once you’ve got the basics sorted, start building new habits and spending more time on play inside. Trust your prep, and enjoy the chilly season together.