Tips to keep your dog safe and warm in winter

The cold winter months are always a challenge for both dogs and their owners. Unless you’re the owner of a Siberian husky or a Bernese mountain dog, chances are good that winter walks with your dog require some extra thought.

Here are our very best tips to stay safe and comfy on your winter walks:

photo by the amazing FAIRYTRAILS - wearing the CONCRETE collar and leash set

Stay visible

In winter there’s a lot less sunlight in the day time. Make sure that others can spot you and your dog from far away. – Especially when vehicles are around. There are collar and leash accessories such as small lights. But be careful, these shouldn’t dazzle your dog.

Protect the paws

A cold and snowy winter can be a tough time for a dog’s paws. Especially salt used on roads and pavements can cause harm to their sensitive skin. Yet what can we do, especially in cities, where salt is not avoidable?

- Trim long-hair at the paw/feet in order to minimize salt crystals, ice-melting chemicals or ice balls gathering there.

- Clean the feet with warm water and dry them with a soft towel when you’re back home.

- There are special paw balms, which you can find at a pet shop. However, vaseline or homemade products can help as well.

Short walks

Frequent short walks are better than a single long walk. Of course there are a few exceptions: Some dog breeds are perfectly adapted to cold temperatures. These breeds usually love this type of weather while others prefer staying on the couch ☺

Keep your dog warm

This is particularly important for puppies, seniors and short-haired dogs. Make sure your dog’s clothing stays dry from the inside.

Listen to your furry friend

Shaking? Cowering? - Then it’s time to go home quickly and get warm again! ☺

Limit snow intake

Many dogs love to eat snow. However, this can lead to serious health problems such as diarrhea or tonsillitis. What’s more, snow can be contaminated with antifreeze or similar harmful substances.

We wish all of you a fantastic wintertime! If you have another tip for keeping a dog safe and warm in winter, share it with the #prunkhundcommunity in the comments below!