Snow days in the White Mountains can feel magical until your dog gives you that look because their walk was canceled… again. Whether you’re dealing with blustery winds, icy sidewalks, or a full-on Nor’easter, winter weather can disrupt routines for both pets and people.
Here’s how to stay warm and happy with these winter tips for your pets.
How Cold is Too Cold?
First, we need to know if it’s safe to take your pal outside for a romp. “Too cold” will depend on breed, size, age and health factors but in general most dogs start to really feel the chill under 45 degrees.
Unless your pal is a cold-weather breed, it’s best not leave them outside for more than a few minutes when temps fall below freezing.
How to Tell if your Pup is Chilly
Just like people, shivering is the first line of defense to generate warmth.
Also keep an eye out for:
- Trying to hold paws off the ground
- Whining
- Tucked tail
- Sluggishness or refusing to move
Your pup’s paws, nose, ears and tail are particularly sensitive to cold weather.
Tools to Stay Toasty
There are loads of options to keep your pup warm when the weather is more than a little brisk. Next time you brave the chill, try gearing up with these:
- Sweaters and jackets
- Protective booties
- Balms to protect noses and paws
- Cots or outdoor beds for relaxing outdoors off the frigid ground
Your pal will thank you for keeping them comfy!
Short Walks Offer Big Rewards
When conditions allow, even brief outdoor breaks are still valuable. A quick sniff session can be just as mentally satisfying as a long walk but if the weather is truly miserable, don’t stress, indoor activities can pick up the slack.
Pro tip: Rock salt and other de-icing chemicals can stick to fur on a winter walk. Be sure to wipe down your pup’s feet and legs so they don’t get sick!
Beat Boredom Indoors
Snow days are prime time for mental enrichment. Try these or visit our previous blog post on indoor activities!
- Puzzle toys or snuffle mats to engage your pet’s brain
- Training refreshers like sit, stay, place, or even learning fun new tricks
- Hide-and-seek games with treats or toys
- Indoor obstacle courses using items on hand like cushions, boxes, or broomsticks
- Tug of war is always popular or a game of fetch is fun if you have the space
Interactive play and a tired brain often equals a calm, content pet with no snow boots required.
Create a Calm and Cozy Zone
If your pup is feeling anxious being stuck indoors, make sure they have a comfortable, quiet space stocked with:
- Their favorite bed or blanket
- Familiar toys
- Background noise like soft music or white noise
- A calming pheromone diffuser to encourage relaxation
Sticking close to normal feeding and play schedules also helps reduce stress when everything outside feels unpredictable.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Most of us have some kind of emergency plan but don’t forget to include your furry friends! Snow days are a great reminder to double-check your pet emergency kit. Include:
- Extra food and medications
- Fresh water
- Flashlights and batteries
- Leash and collar
- Comfort items like blankets and toys
- Copies of vaccination records
A little prep now can make a big difference if winter throws you a curveball.
Gimme Shelter From the Storm
If your pup is the type who prefers snowflakes to sand, it’s still important to have a warm, dry place to escape the wind and cold. A winter-ready dog house should be just slightly larger than your dog to help retain heat and filled with straw bedding for insulation.
Want to go the extra mile? Insulated walls or a pet-safe outdoor heater can turn a basic shelter into a cozy cold-weather retreat.
Pro tip: If you’re an animal lover looking for a simple way to give back, consider making a DIY winter cat shelter out of a plastic storage tote like this one. These shelters can provide life-saving warmth for community cats all season long.
Snow Days, Done Right
With these winter tips for pets you’ll be sure to have a paw-some season even as the snowflakes fall. Winter may limit outdoor adventures, but it doesn’t have to limit joy. With enrichment, routine, and preparedness, snow days can keep tails wagging even when winter won’t quit.