Skip to main content

3 things the experts wished pet parents knew about keeping dogs safe in winter

Paw health, illness prevention, and winter clothes for dogs: Expert-recommended tips

Playing in the snow might seem like a dream come true, but there’s a lot you need to do to keep everyone safe and healthy in the winter. Insulated coats are just the beginning! There are countless ways to protect your dog from hazards like frostbite, but there are also hidden dangers for dogs in snow, ice, or freezing conditions.

Before you start your frantic Google searching, though, we’ve asked several of the pet care industry’s leading experts what they wish owners knew about keeping dogs safe in winter. You might be surprised by what they had to say! Luckily, even the most unexpected winter challenges have easy solutions, and we have them all listed for you here.

A brown dog plays in the snow in a winter forest
Image used with permission by copyright holder

There is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to cold-weather gear for dogs

As cute as your dog might look in a winter coat, not all pups need one. According to Thomas Bohne, founder of the pit bull advocacy Kennel to Couch, “the necessity of winter apparel for dogs depends on several factors.”

These factors include:

  • The climate where you live
  • Your dog’s coat/fur type and length
  • Your dog’s age and general health
Recommended Videos

While there are many ways to determine if your dog needs a sweater this winter, it can help to pay attention to the way your furry friend acts when temperatures dip lower. If they look uncomfortable — they probably are! As Bohne reminded us, “dogs shiver when they’re cold, just like humans.”

Introduce dog winter clothes gradually

Some pups take to new clothes instantly, while others have some warming up to do (literally). Rebarkable founder Ali Smith recommends introducing new coats and shoes gradually before wearing them out and about. This should help desensitize your buddy enough for them to get used to their new winter weather gear.

A brown French bulldog wearing a sweater looks up
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Coats for dogs are great, but paw protection is key for outdoor walks

Whether or not your dog needs a winter coat, you’ll want to consider some extra paw protection before going outside. The cold, icy ground can do more damage than you think.

Leigh Siegfried, the CEO and founder of Opportunity Barks Dog Training, recommends “checking paws for cracks or matted fur” on a regular basis, especially after walks. You might consider investing in some paw wax for soothing irritated paw pads, too.

Paola Cuevas, a Veterinary consultant at PetKeen, tells PawTracks “the salt used to melt snow and ice can cause skin irritation to your dog on contact and intoxication if ingested,” so you’ll want to look for a kind that’s safe for use around animals.

Alternatively, Cuevas recommends “using dog booties to protect the paws from frostbite,” though not all dogs love this idea. That’s why paw wax is such a great alternative!

Nail trimming and paw grooming can be lifesavers in the wintertime

If you choose to use booties for your pup or not, you’ll also want to stay on top of their paw and nail health. As Leigh Seigfried explains, “We tend to not give foot health its due, but nail length will impact overall health, how they move, and their ability to properly grip indoors and out on slick surfaces.” Of course, that’s only half of the equation.

“We have a Cavalier King Charles spaniel with long ‘grinch feet’ fur around his paws, which are prone to collecting leaves and debris when on walks,” shared Sadie Cornelius of Love Your Dog. “We always do a thorough inspection and wipe down his paws with a warm, soapy cloth after we go walks.” Owners also want to trim the fur from between the paw pads to prevent the buildup of ice or debris.

A Boston terrier wearing a gray sweater stands in the snow

The hidden dangers of cold weather can affect even healthy pups or their owners

Unless you live in a mild climate, any dog or owner can fall victim to winter’s hidden dangers. As Paola Cuevas explains, “Hypothermia, frostbite, and increased accidents are a risk if you are outside with your dog during extremely cold winter weather and snow.” That’s why it’s so important to be vigilant and prepared!

Thomas Bohne urges pet parents to “know the signs of hypothermia: changes in breathing or heart rate — from rapid to slow — lethargy, and paws or ears that are cold to the touch.” This kind of knowledge could someday save a life!

Dehydration and respiratory illness are surprising side effects of too much time in the cold

Frostbite and hypothermia are well-known dangers of freezing temperatures, but there are other illnesses to keep an eye out for, too. Paola Cuevas notes that “cold temperatures put a dog at a higher risk of developing respiratory infections or dehydration,” so make sure to have water on hand if you’re going outside. Don’t forget to bundle up, too!

Visibility is key when walking in the snow with your pup

Even if everyone is warm and protected from freezing temperatures, snow itself can be a hazard to the senses. It only takes a little wind for everything to be covered in a new layer of powder — including your dog — so prioritize visibility when shopping for dog winter gear. Sadie Cornelius suggests “using a bright harness can ensure they remain safe and seen in the snow and darker hours.”

With these tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy a romp in the snow without worrying about your fur baby’s health. They’ll be warm, safe, and ready to play!

Gabrielle LaFrank
Gabrielle LaFrank has written for sites such as Psych2Go, Elite Daily, and, currently, PawTracks. When she's not writing, you…
Can dogs eat grapes? Here’s what to know before snacktime
What to do if your dog accidentally eats grapes
A Labrador retriever eats a treat that someone holds out

If your pup enjoys munching on fresh fruits or veggies, they're certainly not alone. Dogs benefit from the vitamins and minerals found in produce, but they're not the main ingredient in a balanced canine diet. Even so, it never hurts to share a bite of fruit, right?
Many dog owners have wondered, "Can dogs eat grapes?" They are a healthy and tasty fruit for humans to munch on at any time of day, but not everything edible for people is also edible for dogs. It's important to ask these questions before sharing any human food with your furry friend, as their safety and health always come first.
Here's what you need to know about dogs and grapes:

Can dogs eat grapes?

Read more
Can dogs eat squash? Know the facts about this fall and holiday favorite
What happens if dogs eat squash? Here's what to know before slipping this side dish to your pup
A dog standing near a Thanksgiving holiday table

We're thankful for our dogs (and the feeling is probably mutual). You may want to slip them your favorite side on Thanksgiving: squash. Butternut squash is a staple, and pumpkin is technically a squash. The squash family tree is large. While we often associate squash with Thanksgiving, other varieties, like zucchini, are summer barbecue staples.

When treating a dog during the year's "most wonderful time" (the winter holidays) or summer, you aim to give your pet something delicious to show love. However, some foods can be health hazards, whether your pet gets some from you or the trash can. Can dogs eat squash, or should they steer clear? We dug up the answers on the benefits, risks, and best practices for feeding your dog squash.
Can dogs eat squash cooked or raw?

Read more
Is your dog refusing to eat? There are a few possible causes
Loss of appetite in dogs might be a problem or it may be just fine. Here's how to find the cause
A puppy stares at a bowl of dry kibble

Just like people, dogs have their own distinctive personalities and preferences -- especially when it comes to food! Some pups are notorious chowhounds, while others are dainty eaters. However, any pet parent has a right to be concerned when their dog's appetite or eating behaviors change. Whether your pooch has been with you for years or you've recently adopted a new puppy, few things frighten a pet parent more than watching their beloved dog not eating his favorite meal.

Thankfully, your dog might refuse to eat for all sorts of reasons, not all emergencies. That being said, you should never assume your pet is just a finicky eater, as he may require veterinary care. Let's take a closer look at a few reasons your dog may not be eating and what you should do about his loss of appetite.
What if your dog isn't eating but is still drinking water?

Read more