Winter brings beautiful snowy hikes and cozy evenings, but it also presents specific hazards for our canine companions. From icy sidewalks to shorter days, here is how to keep your dog happy and safe this season.
Protect Those Paws: Salt and Ice Safety
One of the biggest issues is paw protection from road salt and ice. Paw balm made of ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil provides deep moisturizing and barrier protection against the harsh elements. Booties are another option, and they come in a variety of brands.
Make sure to carefully wipe paws off from the salt outside when you get home so dogs don’t lick their paws and ingest the chemicals.
Watch Out for Toxic Antifreeze
Ingesting toxic antifreeze is another winter health concern. Be careful around vehicles for spills and leaks in driveways, drains/gutters, and garages; and also for improper disposal around driveways, garages, and storage areas. Antifreeze is tempting to dogs as it is sweet-tasting. Look for bright green, pink, or orange puddles, although the colour may vary.
Bundle Up and Manage Exposure
Manage outdoor time wisely – don’t overdo it with the cold weather! Short-haired dogs in particular get cold sooner, so a well-fitted coat can protect against the elements. Small dogs are most vulnerable to cold weather and require shorter walks.
In particular, when a dog gets wet, they are more susceptible to cold and, although rare, can suffer frostbite. Signs of cold stress are pale gums, shivering, and stumbling or lethargy. Leaving your dog in a cold car can put them at risk, so keep car trips short or leave your dog at home.
Steer Clear of Frozen Water
Be cautious around frozen bodies of water, especially if you aren’t sure how thick the ice is. Keep your winter hikes to known areas that are safely marked and clear of frozen water or unmarked trails.
Fueling Up: Winter Nutrition and Hydration
If you do a lot of outdoor winter activities, your dog might require an increase in calories due to an increase in energy expenditure to stay warm. Always make sure you have fresh water to offer on those big hikes as well.
Too Cold? Bring the Fun Indoors
On extra cold days, keep walks to a minimum. Stay inside! If it is too cold for you, it probably is too cold for your dog. Have some enrichment projects on hand – these might include food puzzles, a good bone to chew on, or licky mat and snuffle mat projects.
If you live where winter is long and very cold, sign up for an online trick class and teach your dog tricks inside over the cold winter months. Tricks are a great way to get a dog tired and also, in many cases, provide good fitness too!
Be Seen: Nighttime Visibility
Because winter means short days and longer dark nights, walk your dog with some form of reflection. Many dog coats have reflective tape. Or, get a lighted harness or collar so your dog is visible at night.
Don’t let the cold weather freeze your training progress.
Winter is the perfect time to refine your dog’s manners indoors or tackle specific behavioural challenges. Whether you want to brush up on obedience or need a custom plan for your unique situation, Zen Dog is here for you.
- Life Skills Programs – Build a stronger bond and reliable obedience with our comprehensive group classes.
- Private Training – Get one-on-one expert guidance tailored to your schedule and your dog’s specific needs.
Contact us today to book your winter training session!
