While for us owners it can be difficult to imagine walking barefoot in the snow, dogs are built very differently.
Dr Anna Foreman recently shared her advice as to what you can do to help your dog in very cold weather.
No need for outdoor boots
Sharing her advice with Metro, Dr Foreman explained, "as long as owners wash and dry their dog's paws thoroughly after a walk, there's no real need for outdoor boots".
"These boots are prone to causing a dog distress (dogs are not used to wearing shoes like we are), are easily lost and are unnecessary in most cases".
She also explained that a dog's pads are actually designed to act as a form of shoe, preventing injury to softer skin and the structures underneath.
Protecting your dog from the cold
In certain conditions boots may be a good idea.
"If a dog is slipping in the wet, ice or snow, their pads are becoming chapped and sore, or the skin of their feet (or the dogs themselves) are not tolerating being washed, boots can be used", Dr Foreman goes on to explain.
In many cases, a waterproof raincoat will go a long way in keeping your dog feeling their best during the winter months.
