Snow days can make for a fun and enriching adventure for your dog, but it’s important to plan ahead for your dog’s comfort, health, and safety.

Just because your dog has a fur coat doesn’t mean he’s designed for prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, deep snow, or other variables that winter adventures might include.

Here are some things to keep in mind to keep snow day adventures enjoyable for all! 

Does your dog need a coat?

Thin-coated, small, senior, or very young dogs get cold quickly and may need extra protection or shorter outings. Watch for shivering, tucked tails, slowed movement, or paw lifting. These are all signs it may be time to head inside.

A well-fitted winter coat may extend the time your cold-sensitive dog can enjoy the outdoors on a winter day. Some of our favorites coats for cold weather come from brands like Hurtta and Pomppa Dogwear.

Thick-coated dogs, especially in their prime, can generally handle Reno’s winter weather without assistance, especially if the outing is active enough to keep them warm. It is always wise to stay attentive to your dog’s comfort, especially in conditions they aren’t well-acclimated to.

If your dog’s long coat accumulates icy snow balls that dampen their fun and make for a tedious removal project upon returning home, a body suit might be a big relief for both of you. Don’t laugh until you’ve tried it! 

Protecting Paws from Ice and Snow

Paw protection can be really valuable for dogs in winter weather! Ice or de-icers can irritate your dogs skin, and snow can pack between their toes. 

The first line of defense is to keep your dog’s paw hair trimmed short to prevent clumping snow from taking hold. Application of a paw balm like Musher’s Secret before and after walks can also go a long way to protect paws from winter-y conditions.

Boots can also be a good option to protect your pup’s paws from extreme cold or deep snow. Remember to introduce boots slowly and check them often. Even well-fitted boots can slip or begin to rub your dog’s skin.

Although the right boots for your dog will depend on their paw shape and size, and what activities you’re using them for, some of our favorites include Ultra Paws (great for hiking on rough terrain, too), and Pawz Waterproof Dog Boots (good for deep snow).

Be mindful of challenging or dangerous terrain.

Always keep in mind that walking, running, or frolicking through deep snow is a level of physical exertion your dog may not be prepared for. Just like humans, dogs can get sore from an atypical amount or type of physical activity.

A little soreness after a good day’s play is no crisis, but it’s important to remember that fatigued dogs are more prone to injuries. So it’s wise to keep snow-day adventures a bit shorter than you might otherwise plan to account for the added exertion.

When it comes to senior pets or ones with arthritis, you might want to talk to your vet about pain management after a big adventure. Ever taken an anti-inflammatory so you can sleep well after over-doing it? Your senior dog might appreciate the same kindness.

Also, be aware that snow can mean hidden dangers. Tree wells, for example, are as dangerous for dogs as they are for humans.

Do not let your dog near tree wells. If they fall in, do NOT go in after them, otherwise you’ll both be stuck and in serious trouble. Get help first, then help your dog.

Some Last Pro Tips From Our Trainers

• We all know snowshoeing or cross-country skiing with an on-leash dog is impossible, so do your homework and train your off-leash control before your dog hurts someone or embarrasses you. Out of control dogs can be a serious tripping hazard to other trail users, and it’s EXTRA embarrassing when you’re unable to move fast enough to contain the chaos. Need help with reliable off-leash control? Enroll in Rocket Recall.
• The trainers of Fur and Feather Works agree — excited dogs tend to eat more snow than you might realize, and they will soon have to pee… REALLY BADLY. You may have to stop part way home for a potty break. And if you’re going directly into your home after a snow day adventure, you might want to set a timer to remind you to take your dog out to pee after 30-or-so minutes inside.

With the right precautions and awareness, snowy adventures can be enriching, healthy, and enjoyable for you and your dog. 

So be prepared, stay tuned in to your dog’s experience, and enjoy yourselves out there!