5 Tips for Taking Your Dog Out In the Snow

If you live in a colder environment that experiences snow and icy conditions, you may be wondering the best practices for taking Fido outside in the winter. Many dogs love to play in the snow, and their daily walks should not be stopped just because the temperature drops. However, taking precautions is necessary to keep your pup safe and warm all winter long. Today I’m sharing 5 tips for taking your dog out in the snow. 

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1. Know When They’re Too Cold

My Siberian husky adores the cold and snowy weather. She’ll stay outside for hours in the snow if I let her, however, this isn’t the case with every dog. While some breeds are built with thicker coats to protect them from freezing temperatures, many have shorter coats that don’t protect them quite as well. 

When introducing your dog to the snow, let them out for short periods of time and keep a close eye on them while they’re out. This is one of the most important tips for taking your dog out in the snow.

Keep an eye out for signs that they’re too cold such as:

• Shivering or shaking
• Hunched posture
• Whining
• Lifting paws off the ground
• Tucking their tail between their legs

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to bring them indoors. 

2. Acclimate Them to the Cold

Introduce your dog to the snow and cold weather in brief periods of time. If they do well outside for 10 minutes, you can try 20. As long as your pup doesn’t seem too cold, they’re fine to stay out longer. Once you notice they’re getting too cold, bring them back inside.

3. Learn How to Warm Them Up

If you think your dog is too cold, do your best to warm them up as quickly as possible. Throw a blanket or towel in the dryer for a couple minutes and then wrap it around them. A hot, wrapped, water bottle is a good tool for warming up a dog quickly as well.

If you have a small breed or short haired dog, buying them a coat or sweater is a good idea for keeping them warm while they’re outdoors. 

4. Watch for Antifreeze

Antifreeze tastes sweet to your dog, but is toxic. Avoid letting your dog lick or eat anything off of the ground during the winter and always wipe down their paws after walks or time spent outdoors. 

5. Protect Their Paws

Like humans, dogs also experience chapping in the colder months. Protect their paws from cracking by using a paw balm or moisturizer regularly.

You can also purchase booties for your pup to keep their paws warm and safe as they play.