Tips for Walking Your Dog During Winter

No matter what time of year, your dog still needs to be walked. Walking your dog allows it to exercise, pee, and poop. These are all fundamental to a dog’s happiness and well-being. Can you imagine being stuffed inside a house without a toilet all winter long? I think not! However, not all dogs are adequately equipped to handle the piercing, chilly air of winter. As a result, certain steps must be taken to ensure your dog is warm and comfy during his or her daily walk.

Cover Them With A Jacket
Some dogs have thick fur and do not need any additional cover unless you are experiencing a particularly harsh winter. But for small puppies and short-haired dogs, a small, warm jacket or sweater is highly advisable. Make certain the clothing fits your dog well. If it is too loose, your dog will feel a cold draft. If it is too tight, it may cut off your dog’s circulation. For a nice selection of affordable online puppy gear, take a look at Arcata Pet Supplies.

Get Them Some Dog Boots
A nice pair of cozy, waterproof dog booties will keep your dog’s paws warm and safe from salty sidewalks. In fact, the salts utilized by city officials can burn through a dog’s paws. Reported reactions to city salt include the licking of paws (should be discouraged!) to incessant barking. Choosing a fit pair of boots for your dog is very important. If they are too loose, you may find yourself having to constantly retrace your steps because a boot fell off. For some good pairs of dog booties, try Pet Boots.

Stay Away From Metal Surfaces
Staying away from metal surfaces is extremely important if you are from a large city such as New York. Many metal gates and manholes have old, corroded electrical wiring underneath them. Because of all the moisture from snow and rain, your dog runs the risk of accidentally electrocuting himself. Although this may sound absurd, believe me when I say that it is a common winter occurrence in big cities throughout the country. .

Avoid Snowdrifts
If you run into a snowdrift, your dog is likely to jump headlong into it and go buck wild. Although entertaining to watch, this is actually very dangerous. Snowdrifts tend to form very quickly and cover anything in their path. Of all you know, the snowdrift may be covering a trash bag or two. And trash bags sometimes contain sharp or jagged objects. If your dog really needs a run through some piled up snow, take him to the nearest park instead.

Don’t Overdue It
Keep winter walks with your dog speedy and brief. There is no need to risk you or your dog suffering from frostbite. Once your dog has handled his ‘business’, bring him back inside.

There is no reason why you can’t take your dog out to walk during winter. All you must do is be safe, follow some basic precautions, and keep your walks brief. So next time winter comes around, don’t keep your dog stuffed inside the house. Let him out for some air!