How To Exercise Your Dog In Cold Weather
Daily exercise is essential for our furry companions. It helps keep them fit, healthy, and mentally stimulated.
However, the British weather can be arbitrary, with cold, rain and snow making outdoor activities challenging. Sometimes – it may be too cold to go out at all!
The good news is that with a little preparation, you can safely exercise your dog no matter the conditions. Here’s how to exercise your dog in cold weather while ensuring their safety and wellbeing.
How To Walk Your Dog In Cool Weather
Before venturing out, it’s important to know when the weather may be *too much* for your pups.
In freezing temperatures, dogs – especially small, short-haired breeds – are prone to hypothermia and frostbite. If you notice your dog shivering or unwilling to move, it’s a sign that they are too cold. Always monitor their behaviour carefully.
There isn’t a one size fits all answer for ‘when is it too cold to take your dog out?’ But, as a rule, if it’s below freezing then it’s worth checking your pooch and whether they can withstand the cold. Don’t forget extra precautions for your winter dog walks such as doggie coats if heading out into the chill.
Anything below -7 degrees Celsius is generally considered too cold to venture out at all.
In even more drastic temperatures – more precautions need to be taken. Snow can be fun for dogs to play in, but icy conditions can cause injury. Salt and chemicals used to melt snow can also irritate your dog’s paws, so be sure to bear this in mind and always clean their ‘toe beans’ after walks.
Adapting Your Exercise Routine
As the British weather is always changing, you can tweak your pup’s walking schedule to fit in with extreme conditions. You’ll just have to avoid those puppy dog eyes and know you’re doing what’s best for them!
In really cold weather, consider shorter, more frequent walks instead of one big stroll. Always keep your dog’s breed in mind; small or short-haired dogs may need a warm dog coat. Snow-loving dogs, like Huskies, may tolerate the cold better, but it’s still important to watch for signs of discomfort.
Once you’re back indoors, allow your dog to warm up slowly and dry off thoroughly. Puppy cuddles are a must.
Considering Staying In!
If it’s looking like it’s too dangerous to take your furry friend out, don’t risk it! Instead, there are plenty of ways to stimulate your pup both physically and mentally indoors. Here are a few of ours…
Tug-of-war: A great way to burn off energy, tug-of-war can be played with a sturdy rope or specially designed dog toys.
Interactive toys and puzzles: Dogs enjoy mental challenges, and puzzle toys that dispense treats can keep them busy and engaged for hours. These toys are a great way to stimulate your dog’s mind, especially when a walk isn’t possible. Our favourite treats for these kind of activities are our grain-free stars or mini milky bones, they’re ideal for enrichment time.
Hide and seek: Hide your dog’s favourite toy or a tasty treat around the house and encourage them to find it. This game taps into their natural hunting instincts and helps them burn energy indoors.
While the British weather can be unpredictable, there are plenty of ways to safely exercise your dog in any condition. By adjusting your routine, taking necessary precautions, and providing indoor alternatives, you can ensure that your dog stays happy, healthy, and well-exercised, no matter what the weather throws your way.
And don’t forget to treat your dog to some delicious Pointer biscuits after those chilly strolls – they’ve earned it after all!
Do you have any other tips you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you on Instagram or Facebook. For more pet advice from our Pointer experts, visit our blog.
