Going on walks might be your dog's favorite part of the day, but when it has snowed or is snowing, the last thing your dog may want to do is go on a walk in the snow or they may walk out with their tail wagging. No matter your dog’s opinion on the snow, you will want to ensure they are bundled up before you venture outside.
Bundle Up, Both of You!
While it is important to be bundled up when you go outside during the winter for you to be comfortable, it is just as important to bundle up for your safety. You will want to wear comfortable shoes to prevent slipping and sliding. This will particularly be important if your dog tends to pull on walks since that could cause you to lose your footing. You will also benefit from some gloves or mittens to keep your hands insulated so you can ensure you can keep a handle on the leash. You will also want to bundle your dog up.
Some dogs are suited for the cold and can venture out in the snow without bundling up. However, most dogs will be more comfortable and safer in the cold by wearing a coat or sweater as well as putting some booties on. Smaller dogs as well as very young, very old, or dogs with physical disabilities or illnesses. If it is snowing outside, a water resistant coat would be perfect to keep your pup dry.
Keep The Leash On
While you may find yourself walking your dog off leash on a pleasant spring day, a snowy day is not the time to do this. If your dog does get lost, it can be a lot harder for them to find their way home when the weather conditions are different than normal. A no pull harness can also be helpful if your dog tends to pull. If you are use dto running with your dog, you can try using a jogger’s leash to keep your odg clipped onto you so that if you slip, your dog will not be able to easily get away from you if you accidentally drop their leash.
Avoid Danger at All Costs
There are places you will want to stay clear of such as ponds, even if they seem to be frozen solid. You should follow paths, sidewalks, and roads that you both are used to. You should also avoid walking your dog on newly salted roads since they can irritate your dog’s paws if they are not wearing booties. Following familiar places will also help you avoid anything sharp and dangerous that could result in a painful step that could hurt either one of you.
Keep Your Listening Ears On
Some dogs will communicate with you that they want to go inside, but others will not make it clear so you need to be aware of signs such as shaking or shivering. If your dog starts to pull back towards home, take him or her back inside.