The Challenges of Walking Your Dog in Winter

It can be hard to keep up an exercise routine in the winter. This is as true for dogs as it is for humans. Cold temperatures, snow, shorter days and other challenges can make walking dogs in the winter season difficult and potentially dangerous. Following winter pet safety tips can help reduce the dangers, but don't alleviate all of the hardships. Keep reading for some helpful solutions to the challenge of walking your dog in winter.

Walking Your Dog in Winter: Is it a Good Idea?

Winter weather can pose a number of dangers and challenges for dogs. For one thing, puppies and senior dogs are more susceptible to extreme temperatures and are at higher risk for cold-weather illnesses, such as frostbite and hypothermia, according to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT).

Dogs with certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disease or chronic lung problems, should also have very limited exposure to cold air.

However, cold temperatures are only one of the risks when you're walking dog in winter. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that attracts dogs but could be fatal if ingested. While keeping your dog away from this toxic chemical may seem simple, the real danger comes from your pup walking through spilled antifreeze and then licking his paws afterward.

Salt and other chemicals used to melt ice can irritate your dog's skin. Add to that the shorter days and the increased likelihood of having to walk your pooch after dark, which poses its own set of safety risks.

Winter Pet Safety Tips

Despite the dangers, walking is still a great form of exercise for most dogs. Many dogs love snow and have no problem with the colder temperatures. With the right precautions, winter walks can be safe and enjoyable for you and your pup. Here are some winter pet safety tips recommended by APDT:

• Protect dogs that are susceptible to cold temperatures, including those mentioned above as well as small breeds and dogs with short coats and/or low body fat, with a water-resistant coat or sweater.

• Protect paws from salt and other irritants, as well as from tracking through toxic chemicals, with booties or rubber boots made for dogs. If your dog doesn't tolerate wearing something on his feet, you can coat paws with a protective wax-based cream like those used for sled dogs. Be sure to thoroughly wipe your pup's paws before bringing him inside to remove not just the cream, but anything else he might track in.

• Keep your pup on a leash when outdoors. As tempting as it might be to let him romp through the snow drifts, those drifts could be hiding a number of potential dangers, and unleashed dogs are also at higher risk of running onto frozen bodies of water and falling through the ice. Always try to walk on plowed sidewalks when you can to reduce the potential of running into hidden dangers. It's also a good idea to carry a flashlight with you during walks. As mentioned, as the days get shorter, walking your dog at night will be more prevalent, but it can also be helpful during the day in times of low visibility due to weather conditions.

• Don't allow your pooch to eat snow. Not only could this dangerously lower his body temperature, but the snow could contain harmful chemicals or hidden objects.

• Limit the amount of time your pup spends outdoors to help prevent hypothermia or frostbite. You should keep an eye on your pet for signs of exposure. Signs include whining, shivering, anxious behaviors, slowing down, stopping, or looking for somewhere to burrow. If you notice any of these signs while outdoors with your dog in cold weather, head indoors right away.