It’s a cold winter’s day. You’re snoozing on the couch in front of a crackling fire and then, like a surprise snowball attack, your dog pokes you awake with his cold wet nose. He wants to go out for a walk Now.

As much as you’d like to stay warm and cozy indoors, your pet still needs to exercise, no matter what the season. Most indoor dogs cannot tolerate being left outside in sub-freezing weather, as their coats or paw pads have not thickened.

First Gear Up

Put on your coat, hat and mittens, and get out there with your pet. There are simple ways you can keep him safe while you both enjoy being outdoors.

Just as you need a little warm-up to avoid injury before exercising in the cold, so does your pet. Get him moving a little bit before opening the door.

To keep a smaller pet or short-haired breed (Boxers, Greyhounds, Dobermans, or Chihuahuas, for example) warm, consider dressing him in a coat.

Caution in the Cold

Dogs can stray all year-round, making a leash, and identification tags invaluable.

Once you start walking or jogging, be cautious of ice patches where both of you could slip and fall and possibly become injured.

If your dog is frequently lifting up his paws, crying or stopping while out on his walk, there’s a chance he’s trying to tell you his pads are cold. 

One of the most common winter hazards to pets? Antifreeze, a sweet smelling poison that attracts pets.

Hazardous Solutions

Slip-on boots created specifically to protect a dog’s paws from the elements also provide traction, if you think your dog would tolerate wearing them, a variety of boot styles and sizes are available at pet stores and online. Be proactive and  make sure your dog becomes comfortable wearing the boots before winter comes around.

One of the most common winter hazards to pets? Antifreeze, a sweet smelling poison that attracts pets. Check your garage and driveway for any spills, and beware of parking lots and your neighborhood streets. Cat litter or sand absorbs the fluid and will prevent pets from eating it.

Check Your Pet

Wipe your dog’s paws with a damp towel as soon as you’re back indoors, eliminating the risk of him licking them before you can wash off any irritants or toxins he may have been exposed to outdoors. If you have an anxious or impatient pup, consider keeping a container of warm water and cloths by the door so you can wash his paws without much fuss.

Look closely in between your dog’s toes for balls of ice that can form and become quite painful. Warm water will also help dissolve any lingering ice. Take preventive care before heading out , trim the hair around your dog’s pads and apply a small amount of Vaseline, cooking oil or spray between his toes.