Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/too-cold-dog-walking/

Regardless of temps, dogs need walking — especially if they’re an energetic breed that requires plenty of exercise. During warmer summer months, it’s important to be aware of not only the temperature but the heat emanating from the surface of the street. They may require booties to keep their pads from burning and plenty of water breaks. But winter comes with its own set of considerations. Ensuring pets are warm enough is equally as vital for their safety.

Walking Dogs in Winter

For humans, 32 degrees and below can be pretty miserable, and many dogs would agree. But 20 degrees and dropping can be a real tipping point for canines with a higher risk of hypothermia and frostbite involved. This is particularly true for smaller dogs, older dogs, and those with short, thin coats, such as greyhounds, whippets, pit bull terriers, etc. If your pup falls into one of these categories, supplying them with a sweater or coat is in order.

Hypothermia in Dogs

Smaller dogs and toy breeds tend to lose body heat faster than larger dogs. Deeper snow that leaves them chest-deep will make them even colder and wetter and could possibly lead to hypothermia. If your dog shows signs of it, such as shaking, lethargy, stiff muscles, low heart rate, or dilated pupils, then take them inside immediately, wrap them in a blanket, and keep them under observation. Call a vet if you are really concerned.

Dog Booties

Double-layered coats found on breeds like Siberian huskies, Newfoundlands, Alaskan malamutes, and Bernese mountain dogs tend to make them the most cold-tolerant. Even if they actually enjoy the snow, you should still consider their paws when walking them. It is suggested that you bring a towel with you on cold winter walks to dry your dog’s paws off if they get wet. Another thing to remember is to wash and dry their paws after returning home if you live somewhere that salts roads.

Rock salt, used in combination with sand or gravel to grit icy streets and sidewalks, can damage paw pads. It is also toxic to pets if swallowed, so you should wash it off before they get a chance to lick it off later. A good way to get around this is to get them a well-fitting pair of booties.

Winter Safety for Pets

It’s also crucial that pets have a warm, dry spot for sleeping at night, preferably indoors. There’s a saying that if it’s too cold for you it’s very likely too cold for your pets. Bear this in mind when making decisions regarding their health and safety. Don’t let them walk or play around frozen water in winter and keep an eye on them to gauge how well they’re enduring the lower temps. A general rule of thumb for dogs susceptible to cold is to limit their outdoor winter playtime to 10-20 minutes to avoid harm.

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog