Is it safe to walk dogs in snow? And what do you need to be aware of when the temperature drops? We discuss all you need to know about taking your dog out in cold temperatures.
Dogs need exercise all year round to keep them healthy, but sometimes the weather means you might reconsider taking them outside.
Dogs may get excited at the prospect of jumping through piles of snow, but is it actually safe to walk dogs in snow? We discuss below.
While dogs are able to walk in snow, there are ways to make it safer and more pleasant for them.
Just as you would put on a warm coat, dog jumpers or jackets that fit the size and breed of your pet can be a great way to keep them cosy on a wintry walk.
Likewise, when you don your sturdy footwear for a snowy hike, you might want to think about providing your dog with pet boots or socks. Road gritters spread a mixture of rock salt and anti-caking agents, which can cause irritation, soreness and even burning to your dog’s paws. Providing them with socks can help to protect their feet from cold and grit. Also, keeping the fur between their pads clipped short can prevent ice from getting stuck.
Remember that dogs can get overheated quite easily, so take off their protective clothing as soon as you get home or if entering a heated car.
Most breeds and sizes of dogs can walk in a light covering of snow. However, as snow becomes deeper, it may reach up their legs or even to their stomach, depending on your dog’s size.
This will chill your dog much faster, so try to keep to paths that have been cleared and limit the time you spend with your dog in deeper snow – even if they seem to be enjoying it.
The temperature at which it becomes uncomfortable for your dog varies with the size and breed of your pet – some larger, longer-haired breeds will cope better, for example, than a very short-coated, small dog.
However, when the temperature drops below -4°C, you should avoid taking any size or breed of dog out for a walk. If it drops below -10°C, it can be life-threatening, so switch to indoor games so your dog can still get some exercise.
Keeping your dog on a lead during snowy days is much safer than allowing them to run off, as they might encounter hazards such as deep drifts or frozen water in rivers or ponds that may break under their weight. Make sure your dog’s microchip information is up to date in case they run off.
Similarly, ensure your dog’s insurance is up to date so they are protected if they run into any problems while playing out in the snow. If you want to speak to someone about the best ways to protect your dog in the winter, Petplan customers can access our 24/7 Pet Expert Chat. Simply log into your My Petplan account and go to My Support.
To avoid your dog becoming too cold and uncomfortable, limit your walks in snow to around 20 minutes. This may mean you have to shorten your usual route, but it will still allow your dog some time outdoors.
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Look for signs that your dog is struggling with the cold, such as shivering, pale lips and gums, a loss of coordination, whining or suddenly going quiet.
Dogs can quickly develop both hypothermia and frostbite, so ensure your dog doesn’t get too cold by keeping walks short.
Try to avoid going out in the early morning or later evening, as the temperature will be at its lowest. The middle of the day, when the sun is at its highest, will be warmest. It’s advisable to also check the weather before leaving, in case a storm is forecast.
While your dog may be excited to see snow and try to bite or lick it, remember that it may not just be frozen water. There may be antifreeze in puddles and ponds, which is toxic to dogs, so don’t let them lap at any standing water.
Getting enough exercise during cold, wet days can be a challenge, but if your dog is walked regularly, you don’t need to worry about missing the odd day.
However, if the snow sets in for a longer time, try to change your dog’s routine so they get moving. For instance, if walks are shorter, try to walk the longer way home from your walk to get some extra steps in.
You could create an obstacle course around your home and play fetch, or hide and seek, with some healthy treats as encouragement. You can also use a rope toy to play tug-of-war with your dog – though do be aware that this can lead to aggression in some breeds.
Take a dry towel with you on your walk to dry your dog off if they get too wet and cold.
When you get home, take off any protective clothing and give your dog a good wipe down with a towel to get any melted water off their fur – this will help to warm them up. Then, clean their paws thoroughly to remove any harmful chemicals they may have stepped in and to remove ice, grit and salt.
Does your dog love the snow – or do they refuse to step foot in it? Head to Petplan’s Facebook page to continue the conversation with other pet owners.