Five Tips to keep your dog safe in winter

Winter is quickly approaching, and you may notice your dogs feeling a little less enthusiastic about going out. They need to be safe and comfortable during all seasons, but winter can pose unique challenges. Here are some tips for making sure your dog is safe during this time of year. 

1. Keep walks short in cold weather and don’t stay out for over 10 minutes. Icy cold weather can cause frostbite on their nose, paws, ears, and tail. It will also become uncomfortable for your dog if it stays out for too long. Instead of one long walk, take several short walks. 

2. Wipe off salt stains on their paws with water after winter walks outside to avoid irritation and dryness. Most road salt that is used outdoors is toxic to pets. If your dog licks their paws after a walk, it may ingest toxic chemicals. 

3. Be mindful of how much exercise they're getting while indoors because it's necessary for them to stay healthy and happy! Just because their walks are shorter in the winter, doesn’t mean they need less exercise. Depending on your dog’s breed, they need a certain level of exercise every day. Without it, your dog may show signs of stress and boredom, like destroying furniture or other destructive behavior. 

4. Be mindful of slippery floors and ice. As the days become shorter, there is less daylight, so walk your dogs when it’s brighter outside. Sidewalks and driveways can become very slippery overnight—especially after icy rain or after snowmelt. Slipping on ice can be very painful, but it can also cause serious injuries to you or your dog.

5. Dress your dog warmly before walking. It may seem like a hassle to chase them around the house to put on their onesies, their boots, and their winter coat, but it will all be worth it! Your dog may walk funny, but it’s better than not wanting to go outside at all. 

The winter can pose unique challenges for pets, so it's important to take extra care of your furry friends during the colder months. We've provided some helpful tips that will ensure they're safe and healthy this season!  What are you doing to keep your dog warm in the winter? Let us know what else we should be mindful of while caring for our pet pals on social media or in the comments section below.