As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, it becomes even more important to make sure we take care of our four-legged friends when out for a walk. While some dog breeds are adapted to colder climates, for example, huskies grow thick double coats all year round, other shorter-haired breeds like poodles have single coats, while whippets are classed as a thin-coat breed, meaning they need a bit of extra help to stay warm.
According to pet insurance AnimalFriends, it is generally advisable as winter nears to head outside during the warmer hours of the day – between 11am and 3pm – to allow the dogs to get used to exercise in colder conditions. If you are walking in the dark, it is important to make sure your dog is visible to other dog owners and people in cars. Dog experts at the Dogs Trust say that a coat with high-visibility reflective features, a flashing collar or light attachment, will help keep them safe and seen. “Just make sure anything you buy is suitable for your dog and they’re comfortable wearing it,” they said. If your dog has never worn a coat or light attachment before, it is important to introduce it gradually and in a positive way, they added. “This will help your dog enjoy wearing their equipment for winters to come.” Another crucial factor to consider is how cold is too cold for dogs when planning your walks.
According to Bella and Duke, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when it is too cold to walk your dog. It depends on several factors, including your dog’s breed, age, health and coat thickness. The general motto is, if you feel the cold, then it is highly likely that your dog will also feel the cold.
“When the temperature is between 10C-7C, some dog breeds will need to wear a coat or jacket for their walks. Around 5C or less, some dogs are susceptible to developing frostbite and hyperthermia,” Bella and Duke’s expert advice reads.
Smaller dog breeds, like Miniature Daschunds or Jack Russell Terriers, have less body fat, so they get cold quickly. Body fat is a great insulator, so thinner dogs will become cold faster than those carrying a few more pounds. But, of course, being overweight comes with its own health risks, so it’s important to feed your dog a species-appropriate diet. Puppies and senior dogs are also unable to regulate their body temperature as well as adult dogs. Dogs with darker coloured coats, like brown or black, can absorb more heat from the sun’s rays than those with light-coloured coats.
The Dogs Trust has also shared its top tips for winter walks. Firstly, if it’s snowing, keep your dog on a lead. Snow may cover areas that aren’t safe, such as deep patches or holes. So, by keeping your dog on a lead, you prevent them from falling and hurting themselves.
Next, make sure your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag and is microchipped, so if the worst is to happen and you get separated from your canine friend. This way, you are much more likely to be reunited faster. Additionally, make sure you wipe your dog’s legs, feet and stomach after a walk, as grit from the roads and dampness from rain or snow can irritate their skin.
Next, never leave your dog in the car. This applies just as much in the winter as it does during heatwaves, as temperatures inside a vehicle can drop extremely fast, leading to dangerous conditions like hypothermia and frostbite in sensitive areas like the ears, paws and tail. Younger, older, or sick dogs are more susceptible to the cold and should never be left in a cold vehicle.
Never let your dog walk on frozen ponds, the experts warn. The ice may not be thick enough to take their weight. If your dog does fall through the ice, never be tempted to go in after them. “If possible, encourage them to swim back to you and call the emergency services,” said The Dogs Trust.
Finally, avoid antifreeze at all costs. It is highly poisonous but tasty to dogs. Keep antifreeze and other chemicals well out of reach, and mop up any spills immediately.
