The cold is finally making a comeback in the UK, but with seasonal temperatures, it is not always easy to find the motivation to take your pet outside. And yet, this is essential for their happiness and their health, whether it's freezing, windy or snowy!
You will therefore equip yourself accordingly by putting on your winter boots, a big sweater, as well as a very warm jacket. But did you forget something? Yes indeed, you must also equip your dog - they don't like the cold either!
Of course, if you have a Husky or a Nordic dog breed, your dog will feel fine in the cold. But a Dachshund, for example, will be more inclined to want to stay warm, and only go outside when they need to go potty. However, whether it is a Husky or any other breed, it is essential to walk your dog but also to protect them from the elements.
Walking your dog in winter requires a little more organisation and anticipation than in the spring! But it is still possible and enjoyable, provided you do it right!
Here are 10 rules to follow for your dog's well-being this winter.
Don't stop walking your dog just because it’s winter
The first rule is to continue taking your dog out for walks. It's important that your dog go outside to do their business and to exercise. Let your pooch smell, run, and socialise with other dogs - even if it's cold!
Go for shorter walks but take your dog out more often
If you or your dog are really having a hard time coping with the cold, you can walk your furry friend for shorter periods but more often. For example, instead of two thirty-minute walks, take your dog out five or six times during the day for ten minutes each.
But be careful: if your dog does not have enough time to let off steam outside outside, they will have to compensate with playtime and mentally stimulating games at home!
Note that it is possible to walk your dog at night, even in winter, but you should try to plan daytime walks - even if they are shorter. This is to avoid exposing your dog to very low temperatures, and so that they can enjoy the benefits of sunlight, just like you!
Put a winter coat on your dog during walks
Should you put a coat on your dog in winter? This is a question many dog owners ask themselves. Wearing a coat sometimes seems ridiculous but it can be very useful, especially for small dogs, short-haired dog breeds or fragile dogs (old, very young or sick dogs).
Opt for a warm fleece or padded coat to keep your dog warm. Some coats even cover dogs' legs. The coat can be a good way of keeping your dog from getting sick.
Make sure your dog and yourself are visible, especially at night
If you are used to taking your dog out after your day at work, there is a high chance that the night will have fallen by this time. It is therefore extremely important to ensure your safety, but also your dog’s safety by making your pooch clearly visible to others and to you.
You will also need to be visible and the best way to do so is to dress in light-coloured clothing and / or wear a neon safety vest. For your pet, there are several bright and / or reflective accessories that come in different sizes. If your dog is a dark colour, these accessories are all the more important.
(Always) Be careful with parasites
In the winter, most dog owners tend to forget about ticks, fleas and other parasites and therefore don’t always think about prevention. While it is true that these parasites are rarer in the cold season, they can experience an increase in activity at the slightest warmth. So continue to treat your animals against parasites and inspect their coats after walking in a high-risk area, even in winter.
Protect your dog’s paws pads
Imagine walking barefoot in the snow or on frozen asphalt ... for your dog's paws, it's the same, and they are put to the test: the snow and salt that is scattered on the sidewalks burn terribly.
To protect their paw pads, you can coat them with a protective / repairing balm or opt for homemade remedies. Note that there are also small slippers specially designed for dog’s paw pads - but not all dogs tolerate them!
Don't let your dog eat snow
When walking your dog in the snow, make sure your dog doesn’t eat it! They might find the snow fun, but it's not a good idea: it could cause gastrointestinal issues, and in particular gastroenteritis.
Don't let your dog run on ice
If your dog's favourite swimming spot is frozen over, beware! For their safety, do not allow your dog to walk on ice: it could break and your dog could fall into the frozen water, and become trapped underneath. That is super dangerous!
Spend more time playing with your dog
The more active your dog is, the warmer they'll be. While on your walk, don't hesitate to play fetch or to play a game of cat and mouse with your dog! This is the key to successful walks in winter.
When you both come home, make sure you dry your dog
If your dog gets wet, dry them with a towel or a hair dryer (especially their paws, stomach and ears). If their coat stays wet, your dog could catch a cold. Take the opportunity to check your dog’s paw pads, especially before going out for another walk!
