We may have had a milder winter than years past so far, but we are still months away from tank tops, flip flops, and consistently warm temperatures. While you are busy layering your gloves and buttoning your coat all the way up, you may be wondering what exactly your dog needs from you to stay warm and safe during these Chicagoland winters. While so much of your dog’s precautions vary based on factors from breed to age to preference, there are a few things you should consider during the winter season.

Time bathing appropriately
Winter winds and dry conditions can bring havoc to your skin and to your dog’s. If possible, decrease your dog’s bathing routine so that he doesn’t lose too many oils that can prevent dry or flaky skin. Also, plan your baths when your dog won’t be headed outside soon after. Even drying off well after a bath isn’t quite enough to be sure that your pooch won’t freeze during a quick post-bath potty break.

Watch the paws
When out for a walk or a romp in the backyard, keep an eye on your dog’s paws. While hunting dogs and other furry-footed dogs have built in warmers, paws can get cold quickly. If your dog is sensitive to the cold, keep your walks short and sweet or invest in some doggie boots. If you go to boot route, be sure you give your dog plenty of time practicing with them before you head outside with them.

Consider a coat
While we are on the topic of doggie winter fashion, coats can provide a much needed layer of warmth. If your dog has a short coat, is older, or just doesn’t like the cold too much, try a coat to provide a bit of extra comfort. A warm dog is a happy dog, which means you are a happy owner who doesn’t have to do too much coaxing to get your pooch outside to potty.

Take breaks often
Even if you have a winter loving dog, be sure to consciously bring him in for warming breaks. On especially cold days, don’t let your dog spend too much extra time sniffing and exploring the backyard. Instead, bring him in more often to be sure that he isn’t too chilly.

Give foot baths
Most salt and other ice melting compounds that are on sidewalks throughout your neighborhood have the potential to irritate your dog’s skin. When you are in from a walk, rinse your dogs feet with a washcloth. Be sure to get the crevices in between the paw pads to clear out any crystals that might be hiding and cause issues later.

We also love Musher’s Secret. It’s great to keep your dog’s paws healthy all year round, but especially in the salty and cold conditions during this season.

Watch water intake
Staying warm takes extra energy that you dog already uses for play. Dogs (and humans) can become dehydrated in the wintertime just as easily as in extreme summer temperatures, so be sure that your dog’s water bowl stays full.

Don’t forget the leash
While we don’t recommend letting your dog off leash on walks, it is especially important that you keep your dog on a leash during the winter months. Snow can cover hidden dangers and without you nearby to keep your dog safe, he could suffer significant consequences. Also, dogs are more likely to get lost or dart off during the winter months. Remember, if walking with a leash is not your dog’s strong point, our trainers can brush up his leash manners in our Day Training program. It is worth it for his safety as well as yours – no one wants to fall on the ice due to a pulling or tugging dog.

Know when to stay inside
While getting outside is an important part of your dog’s day, sometimes is is just do darn cold. Be sure that you are still giving your dog a chance to burn energy through socialization, command brush up and practice in our studio with our Day Training option. Our trainers love to see alumni pop in for a day or two during the week, and the dogs love being challenged in our toasty warm studio.

While the weather outside may be frightful, it is still your responsibility to keep your dog safe in the cold. And if it is too cold to head outside, bring him on in to the studio!