A vet has issued an urgent warning to dog owners over freezing temperatures and reveals the breeds at risk of falling ill. Dog owners have been told to reconsider their walking routines this January.
With negative temperatures and the possibility of more snowfall and freezing rain, knowing when it’s too cold to walk your dog has become a critical safety issue for the nation’s pet owners. Pet sitting platform TrustedHousesitters has released essential guidelines for winter dog walking safety in collaboration with veterinary surgeon Dr Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed MRCVS. “Most of us take sensible actions over the winter to look after ourselves, but we also need to think about how to keep our pets safe,” said MacMillan.
“The chilly weather can be enjoyed safely with our furry companions as long as you take a few simple precautions.”
Here we share Dr MacMillan’s advice.
Know your dog’s cold tolerance threshold
Research shows medium to large dogs can typically handle 30-minute walks in temperatures above -6C. However, smaller breeds should be limited to 15 to 20 minutes when temperatures fall below 0C.
Breeds like Dachshunds, Pugs, and Yorkshire Terriers need extra protection, such as jumpers, waterproof jackets, and booties, while thick-coated breeds such as German Shepherds and Huskies can handle colder conditions.
Time walks strategically
Plan walks during the warmest part of the day, typically between 11am and 2pm. Break up exercise into shorter, more frequent walks rather than one long exposure to cold conditions, which allows both you and your dog to warm up between outings.
Create a winter walking toolkit
Create a dedicated space by your door with winter walking essentials: a high-visibility lead for darker days, paw balm to protect against salt and grit, and a towel for drying wet fur immediately after walks. Most importantly, ensure your dog has a cosy spot to warm up post-walk, away from any drafts.
