Winter Adventures With Your Dog
Snowshoeing, skiing and winter walks can be great fun with a dog. Cold air, ice and deep snow add some extra risks to plan for.
Know your dog’s limits
Thick-coated breeds handle cold better than short-coated, small, young or older dogs. Watch for shivering, slowing down or lifting paws, and head home if you see them.
Protect their paws
Ice balls between toes, sharp crust and road salt can hurt paws. Trim the fur between pads, consider dog boots and wipe paws after each outing.
Bring the essentials
- Water, since snow alone isn’t enough.
- Extra treats for energy.
- A leash and a bright collar or light.
- A towel and a warm blanket for the car.
Stay off frozen water
Keep dogs away from frozen lakes and rivers, where ice can be thin. Never go onto the ice to rescue a dog; call for help instead.
