Whether you already have a puppy, or you’re looking for a new puppy, it is important to know about how to walk your puppy in winter. Because of the cold weather and shorter days during the winter, it can be tempting to skip the walks; however, it is important to remember that puppies and dogs still require their daily dose of exercise regardless of the season. Puppies, like people, require regular exercise to stay fit and maintain a healthy weight, and winter walks with your pet will benefit your puppy’s physical and mental wellbeing.
Regular walks help to keep your pet’s muscles strong, prevent obesity, and stimulate their mind. Additionally, winter walks allow your pup to explore new scents and sights, which is crucial for their overall sense of happiness and fulfilment.
Is it Dangerous to Walk My Puppy at Night?
As the nights draw in, it will be more likely that you will be walking your new puppy in the dark. Walking your puppy in the dark during the winter can have some risks. Reduced visibility can make it difficult for drivers, cyclists, and other pedestrians to see you and your puppy. This increases the chances of accidents. But don’t worry, there are things that you can do to reduce this.
When walking your puppy in the dark, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards and to take the necessary precautions. Use reflective clothing and accessories to make you and your puppy more visible to others. We recommend choosing well-lit routes. By being proactive and cautious, you can minimise the risks and enjoy safe nighttime walks with your pup.
Training Tips for Walking Your Dog in the Dark
Walking your dog in the dark requires additional training and planning. Here are some pointers to make the experience more enjoyable and safer:
- Walk your puppy on a lead in a well-lit area before going out in the dark. This will help your dog in becoming accustomed to the leash and walking alongside you.
- Reward your puppy for walking calmly and staying by your side by using positive reinforcement. Good behaviour will be rewarded with treats and praise.
- Teach your dog basic commands like “heel” and “stop” so you can keep them under control on walks.
- During daytime walks, expose your dog to new environments and sounds. Exposing them to a variety of stimuli will help to increase their confidence and calmness during nighttime walks.
Winter Walking with Your Puppy: What You Need to Know
When going on winter walks with your puppy, it’s important to have the proper equipment to keep them warm, comfortable, and safe.
Start with:
- A well-fitting harness or collar that allows you to have better control over your puppy.
- A sturdy leash is also necessary to ensure their safety.
- Buy some high-quality dog coat or sweater to keep your puppy warm during chilly winter walks. Try and make sure that it covers their chest, back, and belly as much as possible.
- Additionally, dog booties can protect their paws from cold surfaces, sharp objects, and harmful chemicals like de-icers.
It can be strange to walk your puppy in the dark, but with the right precautions, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience. One of the most important tips is to wear reflective clothing or accessories, such as a reflective vest or armband. This will make you more visible to drivers and other pedestrians.
Another useful tip is to illuminate the path ahead of you with a dependable and bright torch. This will not only make you more visible to others but will also help you see potential hazards. Stay on well-lit paths and avoid areas with poor lighting or uneven surfaces.
Finally, consider getting your puppy a light-up collar or leash. These accessories include LED lights that light up your puppy from a distance. This allows others to see you and your furry friend, lowering the risk of an accident.
Precautions to Take to Protect Your Puppy from Cold Weather
- In extremely cold weather, shorten your walks. Reduce the length of your walks and consider taking multiple shorter walks throughout the day.
- Provide appropriate winter clothing for your puppy. To provide additional insulation, invest in a well-fitted dog coat or jumper.
- Keep their paws safe. To protect your puppy’s paws from freezing temperatures and harmful substances on the ground, use a pet-friendly paw balm or dog booties.
- Avoid walking on icy surfaces. Avoid walking on icy pavements or roads, which can be dangerously slippery and increase the risk of injury.
How to Keep Your Puppy’s Paws Safe During Winter Walks
During winter walks, your dog’s paws are vulnerable to injuries and irritation, and sometimes it can be difficult to understand what your puppy is trying to tell you. Cold weather, rough surfaces, and potentially harmful chemicals can harm their paws. Here are some suggestions for keeping their paws safe:
- Trim the fur between their paw pads to prevent the formation of ice balls. This will also aid in maintaining traction.
- Before going for a walk, apply a pet-friendly paw balm or petroleum jelly to their paw pads. This will keep their paws moisturised and prevent them from drying out.
- After each walk, rinse your puppy’s paws with warm water to remove any salt or chemicals they may have stepped on.
- Consider dog booties. These can provide additional insulation and protect their paws from cold and rough surfaces.
- Remember to check your puppy’s paws regularly for signs of irritation or injury. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any redness, swelling or limping.
Fun Activities to Do with Your Dog During Winter Walks
Winter walks do not have to be just for exercise. They can also be a great way for you and your pet to bond and have fun together. We’ve put together some fun things that you can try and do on your winter walks. We recommend doing these in the daytime to ensure that there is enough light for you and your puppy.
- Play fetch with a brightly-coloured toy or a snowball. This will provide your dog with both physical and mental stimulation.
- Hide treats for your puppy in the snow. This game stimulates and entertains their sense of smell.
- During your walks, teach your puppy new tricks or commands. Take advantage of the opportunity to reinforce their training and improve their obedience skills.
- Take breaks and let your dog explore its surroundings. Allow them to sniff and explore the winter wonders around them.
- If you’re a new puppy owner, we also recommend looking at 9 things that every new puppy owner should know.
