In this article on our site we are going to explain how to take a dog to the snow When temperatures drop and flakes fall, There are many people who enjoy activities in the snow and wonder if their dog can accompany them or not. The truth is that there are also many dogs who love the snow, but it is advisable that we follow some tips to avoid scares due to a temperature that is too low and, above all, respect the preferences of the dog, since not all of them have a good time in the snow.
Because of all the above, if you want to walk your dog in the snow and you don't know how to prepare it or what to take into account, follow reading and take note of all our tips.
Can dogs go in the snow?
In general, the answer to this question is yes. In fact, dogs usually enjoy it a lot But before thinking about how to take a dog to the snow, we have to look at whether ours wants to go or not. Some specimens seem to be scared by that white blanket that covers everything, especially if it is the first time they see it. In these cases, they should not be forced, but allowed to gradually adapt and decide how far they want to go.
On the other hand, there are large variations between races. We all know some that are perfectly adapted to snow, such as the Siberian husky, but for less accustomed dogs or those without adequate physical conditions, it is a good idea to provide them with specialized equipment, not when you are just going to go for a walk on the snow, but to spend one or more days between significant amounts of snow. We review this equipment in the following sections. In addition, it is a good idea to bring them water to prevent them from sucking on ice or snow, which may contain antifreeze products that are toxic to them.
How to protect a dog's paws in the snow?
Although a dog's pads are perfectly adapted to walking on any type of terrain and in all weather conditions, it is true that when temperatures are very low and there is snow or ice, some dogs may need extra help, especially if they are going to spend time away from home.
Therefore, if you have doubts about how to take your dog to the snow or ice, have a product to protect the padsFor sale you will find several formats, such as spray, which makes it very easy to apply, or cream. Among their ingredients they have different active ingredients whose function is to provide protection to the pads, keeping them soft and improving their resistance. Also, if your dog is older or for some reason his pads are cracked or more delicate, you can apply this type of product for prevention, hydration and recovery. On the other hand, they also offer protection against s alt or any substance used to melt snow.
What does a dog need to go to the snow?
As we have mentioned, it all depends on the exposure time and the dog. Those breeds of snow dogs, which are totally adapted to this type of environment, do not need to carry anything extra. However, dogs that have never been in the snow, are prone to cold, or are small in size may need some help. However, we insist that if you are only going for a walk in the snow with your dog because it has snowed in your city and you do not observe symptoms of cold or discomfort, you can take it as usual.
Dog clothes in the snow
There are plenty of clothes for sale adapted to all sizes and complexions if we want to take our dog to the snow. In fact, there is so much variety that it can be difficult to choose a dog coat It is best to go directly to an establishment where we can try several models and someone with knowledge can guide us.
Specifically, for the snow we need a garment that keeps you dry and warm Ideally, it should cover you from the withers to the tail. Some of these coats have a hood, although it is not essential and not all dogs tolerate it. Other designs have the option of inserting the legs, thus keeping the abdominal area more protected compared to open models, cape type. In any case, it is a good idea to get your dog used slowly, as some do not like to wear clothes. In fact, it is not essential. On the other hand, others who are colder will be better with clothes on, even if it doesn't even snow.
Dog Snow Shoes
Just as we can find different clothes to keep the dog warm in the snow, there are also specific footwear for this situation, offering greater protection than the protective cream for pads by completely covering the feet. We are talking, above all, about dog boots Of course not all dogs are comfortable with them and may want to take them off or refuse to walk. Therefore, before using them you have to get used to them little by little.
The advantage of snow dog boots is that they cover more surface area than pads, providing protection for the paws as well. These types of boots are designed for heavy snowfalls or for dogs that spend a lot of time in the snow. A walk on a thin layer of snow does not require much protection, in principle.
Normally, these types of boots have several layers that give them resistance to cold and water, while allowing perspiration. In addition, the sole is special and is designed to allow a good grip both on snow and on ice. They have a closure that adjusts them to the leg and prevents snow from entering.
You already know how to take your dog to the snow, this would be a basic kit, but you can add other accessories such as sunglasses, if tolerated, or sunscreen. Now, there are many people who wonder if dog socks are suitable for snow and the answer is no because their materials do not insulate the paws from the cold or favor a good grip. Likewise, with direct and constant contact, they get moist.
Care when the dog comes home after a walk in the snow
After the precautions to go with your dog to the snow, it is advisable to continue with the care when you get home. The first thing is to remove all the clothes or shoes that he is wearing and dry the areas that need it or the whole dog if he has gone out without any protection, even if it is only wet. We can use towels and dryer. Wanted to dry completely to avoid problems that can be caused by keeping your skin moist and to help you warm up faster.
Once dry, you can rest in your bed in the warmth of the fireplace. If he is not very suffocated, we can offer him water and, if the effort has been considerable, it is possible to give him his food ration. If we have not done it before, if we notice cracked pads or a dry nose, we can apply a product to help regenerate them. Vaseline is worth if we do not have specific cream on hand.
Dangers of snow for dogs
In general, a dog living in a household can go for a walk in the snow without any problem. But if the exposure to cold is prolonged or it is a dog that lives outdoors without possible shelter, problems could arise due to a drop in the dog's normal body temperature. Furthermore, if the blanket gets wet with snow, it will lose its insulating capacity, complicating the situation. Younger and older dogs, small in size, short-haired or have a he alth problem are the ones most at risk of suffering from this hypothermia The cold also makes it consume energy and the consequence is a decrease in blood glucose Thus, severe hypothermia includes the following signs:
- Tremors.
- Apathy.
- Weak pulse.
- Body temperature below 35 ºC.
- In the most serious cases, coma is reached.
Of course, this situation is an emergency and the dog, wrapped in a blanket or any other warm clothing, has to be taken to a veterinary center, preferably in a heated vehicle put. Another risk situation is frostbite, which will appear in the most exposed areas of the body, such as the tail, ears, pads or scrotum of males. Frostbitten skin turns white or bluish, turning red as it swells and can peel. If a time passes, it adopts a blackish hue that indicates that the tissue is dead and will eventually detach. It is also a veterinary emergency.
