How to Prepare Your Dog for Winter Walks

 Winter in Ireland means shorter days, bitter winds and rain that never seems to stop. While curling up indoors sounds lovely, your dog still needs their daily walks regardless of what's happening outside. With a bit of preparation, winter walks can actually be grand for both of you.

Understanding Your Dog's Cold Tolerance

Not every dog handles the cold the same way. Short-haired breeds like Greyhounds and Whippets really feel it compared to their fluffier mates. Smaller dogs lose heat quickly because they're so close to the ground and older dogs or puppies just don't regulate temperature as well.

Your dog will tell you when they're too cold:

• Shivering or trembling
• Lifting their paws off the ground
• Not wanting to go outside
• Slowing right down or stopping

Some dogs are absolutely fine in just their coat, while others genuinely need that extra layer. There's no shame in popping a jacket on your dog when it's freezing.

Essential Winter Walking Gear for Irish Weather

Getting the right gear honestly makes such a difference. A proper waterproof coat keeps them dry when the heavens open, which let's face it, happens a lot here. If your dog has a thin coat or not much body fat, an insulated layer underneath helps on those really cold mornings.

Your walking kit matters too. A comfortable harness spreads the pressure evenly and gives you better control when paths are slippy. A decent lead for daily walks is even more important when the weather's acting up. 

We stock leads, harnesses and collars at Trendy Paws that hold up well in Irish weather. Get reflective gear with stitching on the harness and collar so you can actually see your dog on those dark evenings.

Protecting Your Dog's Paws in Winter

Winter paths are brutal on paws. The cold dries them out, grit irritates them and salt absolutely stings.

Before you head out: Put on some dog-safe paw balm. It creates a barrier that stops cracking and soreness.

When you get back: Give their paws a wipe with a damp cloth. This gets rid of any salt or anti-freeze that might be lurking. Anti-freeze smells and tastes lovely to dogs but it's deadly poisonous.

For fluffy paws: Keep the fur between their pads trimmed short. Snow and ice stick to long fur and form horrible clumps. If ice does get stuck, use lukewarm water to melt it away gently instead of trying to pull it out.

Timing Your Walks Around Daylight

We don't get much daylight in winter, so you need to be smart about timing. Midday walks are your best bet when it's a bit warmer and you've got decent light.

If you're stuck doing early morning or evening walks, that reflective gear becomes essential for staying safe on roads.

Shorter walks more often usually work better than one long freezing slog. Your dog still gets their exercise and doesn't end up like an ice lolly.

Building Winter Fitness Gradually

If your dog has been lounging around all autumn, don't expect them to suddenly manage massive winter walks. Start small and build up as they get used to the colder weather.

Keep an eye out for these signs they're tired:

• Slowing down a lot
• Panting heavily
• Dragging behind you
• Stopping and lying down

Just because it's cold doesn't mean your dog can't overheat under their winter coat when they're running about. It's all about finding the right balance.

Staying Safe Near Water and Ice

Winters here mean frost and sometimes frozen puddles or ponds. Dogs don't always cop on that their usual paddling spot is dangerous when it's iced over.

Keep them on the lead near any frozen water, even if it looks solid. If they go through, the shock of cold water is really dangerous and getting them out is a nightmare. It's way easier to just avoid the whole situation.

After-Walk Care and Winter Grooming

Looking after your dog when you get in is just as important as the walk itself. Dry them thoroughly with a towel, paying special attention to their belly, legs and between their paws and don’t put their collar or harness back on until they’re completely dry to avoid skin irritation. 

If they’ve come home soaking wet, a quick warm rinse will gently remove salt, mud and grit. When washing your dog in winter, a light touch is best; too much can strip the natural oils that help keep them warm. 

Using the appropriate grooming equipment for brushing and trimming makes it easier to maintain their coat, keeping your dog cosy, clean and comfortable even in the harshest weather.

When to Skip the Walk

Sometimes the weather is genuinely too rough. Storm warnings, heavy ice or brutal cold with strong winds mean it's safer to stay put. Missing one walk won't do your dog any harm.

Indoor activities that work well:

• Hide and seek with treats
• Teaching them new tricks
• A good game of tug
• Fetch down the hallway
• Puzzle toys to keep them busy

These keep them entertained and tired out when going outside just isn't happening.

Keeping Your Dog Safe and Comfortable in Winter

Winter walking takes a bit more effort, but your dog still needs their daily exercise and mental stimulation. With the right gear, suitable timing and keeping an eye on their comfort, you'll both be grand out there.