How do you prepare your dog for winter?
Winter has arrived.The days are short, the temperature is dropping, and I feel less and less like going for a walk.And you have to walk your dog regardless of the weather.How can we help our dog make this essential need a pleasant experience during this time??What activities should we choose for long evenings to keep our pet from getting bored during the winter??
Enemy Number One: Salt!
In winter, sidewalks are salted for our safety, but unfortunately, that salt isn’t safe for dogs’ paws.They are very sensitive, so what improves our safety actually harms them.Whenever possible, let’s walk so that the dog’s paws are always on the snow, and let’s let our pets walk on the side of the road.A common sign that the salt is stinging or burning is when the dog lifts its limbs or limps.
After a walk, it’s a good idea to rinse their paws with lukewarm water and dry them off.Some dogs have more fur between their paw pads, so it’s a good idea to trim it to prevent any discomfort.This is important because when a pet licks its paws, it can ingest salt that is harmful to it.
Before going for a walk, it’s a good idea to protect your dog’s paw pads with special creams or petroleum jelly.It is important that these products are not water-based, as the water may freeze while you are out walking.Another option is to buy special shoes.In that case, it’s a good idea to practice beforehand and get your pet used to them.Our pets aren't used to this kind of gear and may refuse to go for a walk, and for many, just putting it on can be very difficult.Remember not to force your dog to wear shoes at all costs, and don’t put them on against your dog’s will.
Dog clothes—a fashion statement or a practical necessity??
The selection of dog clothes is growing, ranging from style to fabric and craftsmanship.Some people love them, while others are against them.While it’s really a useless gadget during the summer (unless we’re talking about rain jackets), it can be an essential accessory for certain breeds during the winter.If your dog is reluctant to go for walks, and even when he finally agrees to go, he’s shivering all over, you should consider buying him some winter clothing.
Let’s remember that not every breed, despite being available in the country, was originally bred for our climate, and cold temperatures simply don’t agree with some dogs.In Poland, we can also find dogs imported from warmer countries, such as Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Basenjis, and Yorkshire Terriers.That's why clothing may be necessary for some dogs.Let’s keep in mind that, just like with everything else, a dog needs to get used to wearing clothes.Dog clothes can disrupt communication between pets, since body language plays a huge role in it.A garment like this can hide, for example, bristled fur on the back, which could lead to a dog fight.That is why, as dog owners, we should be extra vigilant and choose our interactions with dogs carefully.
Length of the walk
Whether your dog is sensitive to the cold or loves winter, a balanced and well-chosen activity is essential.However, regardless of your pet’s breed or type, a winter walk will be different from a summer one.Some pets are more active, others less so.If you have a pet that would rather spend the winter on the couch, don’t forget to keep it active—not so much physically as mentally.
All kinds of logic toys—such as scent balls, puzzle toys, and taste-discovery toys—are excellent choices.It’s worth introducing your pet to nosework, a sport that mimics the hunting instinct and can be easily practiced at home.In addition, this sport strengthens the bond with the guide, which improves their relationship.
However, aside from activities at home, a walk is essential.Very often, when we hear the term “active walk,” we think of hikes that cover several kilometers.Let’s remember, however, that dogs’ activity levels differ from those of humans.Let’s focus on scent games, exploring the snow, and searching for their favorite toy, instead of taking walks that go on for several kilometers.A few minutes of sniffing can tire a dog out more than an hour of running after its owner without being able to explore the area.Let’s remember that dogs explore the world with their noses, and moisture attracts scents—snow is full of them, so there’s a lot of information to process.
Summary
Winter may seem like an easy time for dogs, but it’s not.If we prepare our pet well for it, they'll get through it without any trouble.But let’s not forget about our own comfort either.After all, when we take the dog for a walk, we need to be warm and comfortable too.When getting dressed, let’s choose natural fabrics that retain heat.If we don't make sure we're comfortable, our dog won't enjoy the walk.
