It’s easy to assume that your dog’s fluffy coat will keep them toasty warm on your walks through snowy Spokane. While there’s some truth to this idea, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure your pup is comfortable in the cold weather. We’ve compiled a few of our recommendations to keep your pet’s toasty warm this Winter! 
- Raise bedding off the floor! By elevating your dog’s place to sleep, you’re keeping them off the cold floor, ensuring that they’re toasty warm all night. If you have small, short-haired, or elderly pups, adding a few extra blankets won’t hurt!
- Add layers like sweaters and booties! When you’re spending time outside, grab a sweater or dog booties for your pup to make sure they enjoy their walk. Plus, it’s a fun way to express your dog’s style!
- Understand your breed. Dogs react differently to the cold depending on their size and coat. Huskies and Great Pyrenees have thick fur that will allow them to play outside for longer in cold weather. Short haired dogs will require extra layers and may need shorter walks in the Winter.
- For small dogs, limit time in temperatures below 32 degrees to 10-15 minutes. Larger dogs, especially those with thicker coats, can be outside for up 30 minutes to an hour. Be sure to factor in the age and health of your pup when considering how long to leave your pup outside.
- If your dog’s spending lots of time outside in the winter months, consider upping their food intake. Staying warm depletes energy quickly, and your pup may need a little extra fuel to stay happy throughout the day!
- Antifreeze and rock salt used to melt ice and snow are toxic to dogs! Be sure to store these away from your pets and be sure to wipe your dog’s paws after walks so they don’t accidentally ingest the toxins.
We hope these tips and tricks will help keep your pups cozy and warm these winter months!
