Dogs Trust Leeds has issued new guidance following cold weather alerts, warning that icy surfaces can be far more hazardous than they appear.
The charity says even if water looks solid, the ice is rarely strong enough to support the weight of a dog.
Frozen water poses serious danger
Behaviour officer Dom Burke said recent drops in temperature have led to many ponds and lakes freezing over, creating a tempting but hazardous situation for curious pets.
He advised owners to keep dogs on a lead when walking near frozen water and stressed that people should never enter the water if their dog falls through the ice. Cold water shock can trigger panic, involuntary gasping and breathing difficulties, and in some cases can be fatal.
Trying to rescue a dog from icy water may also put the animal at greater risk. Instead, owners are advised to encourage their dog to swim back to the edge if possible and call 999 in an emergency.
Winter safety tips for dog owners
The charity also highlighted other seasonal hazards. Short-haired dogs and puppies may need extra warmth, while poor visibility and snow can increase the risk of dogs getting lost.
Owners are reminded to keep ID tags and microchip details up to date, wipe paws after walks to remove salt and grit, and store antifreeze securely, as it is highly toxic to dogs.
