When Is It Too Cold To Walk Your Dog?
06.01.25 January 06, 2025 Health

When Is It Too Cold To Walk Your Dog?

Winter’s really starting to set in - the clocks have gone back, resulting in darker nights and we’ve all rushed to get the heating on. But once Jack Frost has made his appearance, you may start wondering whether it’s too cold to walk your dog. You might be all set with a coat, hat, gloves and scarf, however your dog is less protected from the elements than you are. Their fur helps to keep them warm to a degree, and you can always put them in a winter coat or woolly jumper to protect them from the cold even more. But at which temperature do you decide that it’s too cold to walk them?    Should You Walk Your Dog In Winter?  You absolutely should walk your dog in winter. Walking is an excellent source of exercise for your dog, but also a way for them to experience the wonderful smells of the world around them. They get to socialise with other dogs, have some bonding time with their owner and wear themselves out ready for a cosy night by the fire.     However, before you take your dog out, you should take a look at what the weather’s doing before making a decision. If it’s a beautiful, crisp sunny day, for example, with very little breeze, a walk would be welcome. But if it’s looking a bit windy and stormy, you may decide that it’s best not to go. The walk should be enjoyable, and it’s likely that neither of you will enjoy it if it’s like this. You may also want to assess whether it’s safe to take your beloved pet out. Low fog or mist and hail can be dangerous, for example, so in these conditions it may be safer to skip the trip out.  If you do decide to venture out in the rain or snow, be sure to take a route that’s well paved and well lit.     Can Dogs Be Walked In The Cold?  Dogs definitely can be walked in the cold, and you shouldn’t let the dropping temperatures be a reason to stop giving them their daily exercise. A walk is likely one of the highlights of your dog’s day (besides dinner time) so if they’re happy to go out in the cold, you should be happy to take them.  There are some things that you may want to take into consideration before you leave the house, though.   First, you should try to walk during the day - it will be much colder early in the morning and in the evening, so stick to mid-morning or early afternoon, between 10 and 2 is ideal. Plus if salt has been put on the pavements and roads, it’s more likely to have been pushed off the surfaces by other people that have come and gone over the course of the day. Salt can cause irritation of the skin on the paw’s underside and can become painful for your dog.   You should go prepared with a coat for your dog that is sized correctly, making it comfortable for them and easy to walk in. Check out our best winter dog coats blog to see our favourites this winter. As already mentioned, you should stick to well-lit paths or routes that you and your dog know well. If they get anxious about the rain or cold weather, knowing where they are going could help them to feel a bit more at ease.       At what temperature does a dog need a coat? This will vary from dog to dog, typically smaller dogs, short haired breeds and puppies will get colder easier than their larger & long haired counter parts. There isn't an exact temperature that your dog will need a coat, but we recommend watching your dog's behaviour and judging from that, remember you know them best! If they don't like wearing a coat don't force them, the stress isn't worth it for you or them! Even with all these things in place, your dog may not be that keen to go out. Always be sure to listen to what your best friend is telling you. If they’re refusing to walk, shivering, standing in a hunched position or whining, then you should take them home.   [product]  If your dog doesn't fancy a walk but still has lots of energy to burn, why not try some indoor enrichment activities with them? 15 minutes of sniffing is equivalent to an hour's dog walk, so snuffle mats will be your best friends when your dog doesn't fancy a wintery walk. Alternatively, the Nina Ottosson interactive dog toys are great for keeping your dog's mind busy.   What Temperature Is Too Cold For A Dog To Walk Outside?  Now we’ve discussed certain weather conditions and how to prepare for a chilly walk. But how do you know when it’s time to skip walkies altogether? and what temperature should you not walk your dog? Use our table below to work it out!  Dog Walking Temperature Chart As you can see, small dogs are more vulnerable in the cold, whereas bigger dogs can withstand lower temperatures. Do keep this in mind when taking your furry friend for a walk, and avoid walking any dog when temperatures drop below -10℃, even if they’re wearing a coat.  For puppies and older dogs, it’s better to exercise a little bit more caution, as they could be more vulnerable to the cold too. If you’re at all unsure, it’s probably best to keep them in.     Can I walk my dog in -4℃? As you can see from the chart above -4℃ is either potentially unsafe or dangerous depending on what size dog you have. If you have a small or medium sized dog, or a puppy we recommend staying home and using enrichment activities to keep them busy. However, if you have a large dog, walk them with caution or stay home. If you do decide to walk a larger dog, we recommend keeping their walk shorter and properly dry them off once you're home.    How Long Should You Walk Your Dog In Cold Weather?  Generally, it’s best to cut your walks short when it’s really cold outside. The longer your pup is outside, the lower their body temperature will go, so it’s best to give them a few shorter walks instead of giving them one long walk.  For temperatures above -4℃, medium to large dogs can walk for around half an hour, whereas smaller dogs should be limited to around 20 minutes. However, do keep in mind that other factors can make it feel colder outside than it actually is. For instance, a strong wind can take a relatively mild day to a freezing cold one. Walking in the snow can be fun too, when it’s a lovely sunny day, but if you’re walking in wet sleet or through sludgy snow, your dog’s body temperature can drop quite quickly, even when they’re moving. You should stop your dog from eating snow, as this can bring their temperature down too.  You should be able to walk your dog in winter, when it’s perfectly sunny or when it’s a little bit rainy. Just do take into account other weather factors and how long you’re outside for.      Do Dog's Paws Get Cold? Just like our hands and feet, your dog's paws can get cold too! However, over time their paws have adapted to help them from freezing. Their arteries bring warm blood from their body to their paws and back up their legs, rather than loosing the heat through their skin, this is known as a countercurrent heat exchange. To help keep your dog's paws warm, make sure to dry in between their paw pads after a walk and wash off any salt and grit they may have walked through. You can even use some paw balm after to help stop their paw pads from cracking. 

By Zac Girdlestone

Read more

Winter’s really starting to set in - the clocks have gone back, resulting in darker nights and we’ve all rushed to get the heating on. But once Jack Frost has made his appearance, you may start wondering whether it’s too cold to walk your dog. You might be all set with a coat, hat, gloves and scarf, however your dog is less protected from the elements than you are. Their fur helps to keep them warm to a degree, and you can always put them in a winter coat or woolly jumper to protect them from the cold even more. But at which temperature do you decide that it’s too cold to walk them? 

 

Should You Walk Your Dog In Winter? 

You absolutely should walk your dog in winter. Walking is an excellent source of exercise for your dog, but also a way for them to experience the wonderful smells of the world around them. They get to socialise with other dogs, have some bonding time with their owner and wear themselves out ready for a cosy night by the fire.  

Labrador on a winter walk Labrador in a puddle with a wellie boot toy

However, before you take your dog out, you should take a look at what the weather’s doing before making a decision. If it’s a beautiful, crisp sunny day, for example, with very little breeze, a walk would be welcome. But if it’s looking a bit windy and stormy, you may decide that it’s best not to go. The walk should be enjoyable, and it’s likely that neither of you will enjoy it if it’s like this. You may also want to assess whether it’s safe to take your beloved pet out. Low fog or mist and hail can be dangerous, for example, so in these conditions it may be safer to skip the trip out. 

If you do decide to venture out in the rain or snow, be sure to take a route that’s well paved and well lit.  

 

Can Dogs Be Walked In The Cold? 

Dogs definitely can be walked in the cold, and you shouldn’t let the dropping temperatures be a reason to stop giving them their daily exercise. A walk is likely one of the highlights of your dog’s day (besides dinner time) so if they’re happy to go out in the cold, you should be happy to take them. 

There are some things that you may want to take into consideration before you leave the house, though.  

First, you should try to walk during the day - it will be much colder early in the morning and in the evening, so stick to mid-morning or early afternoon, between 10 and 2 is ideal. Plus if salt has been put on the pavements and roads, it’s more likely to have been pushed off the surfaces by other people that have come and gone over the course of the day. Salt can cause irritation of the skin on the paw’s underside and can become painful for your dog.  

You should go prepared with a coat for your dog that is sized correctly, making it comfortable for them and easy to walk in. Check out our best winter dog coats blog to see our favourites this winter. As already mentioned, you should stick to well-lit paths or routes that you and your dog know well. If they get anxious about the rain or cold weather, knowing where they are going could help them to feel a bit more at ease.  

Labrador in a green quilted dog coat Dalmatians in green towel drying coats

 

At what temperature does a dog need a coat?

This will vary from dog to dog, typically smaller dogs, short haired breeds and puppies will get colder easier than their larger & long haired counter parts. There isn't an exact temperature that your dog will need a coat, but we recommend watching your dog's behaviour and judging from that, remember you know them best! If they don't like wearing a coat don't force them, the stress isn't worth it for you or them!

Even with all these things in place, your dog may not be that keen to go out. Always be sure to listen to what your best friend is telling you. If they’re refusing to walk, shivering, standing in a hunched position or whining, then you should take them home.  

All for Paws Dig It Snuffle Mat

All For Paws

All for Paws Dig It Snuffle Mat

 

If your dog doesn't fancy a walk but still has lots of energy to burn, why not try some indoor enrichment activities with them? 15 minutes of sniffing is equivalent to an hour's dog walk, so snuffle mats will be your best friends when your dog doesn't fancy a wintery walk. Alternatively, the Nina Ottosson interactive dog toys are great for keeping your dog's mind busy.

 

What Temperature Is Too Cold For A Dog To Walk Outside? 

Now we’ve discussed certain weather conditions and how to prepare for a chilly walk. But how do you know when it’s time to skip walkies altogether? and what temperature should you not walk your dog? Use our table below to work it out! 

Dog Walking Temperature Chart

How cold is too cold to walk your dog

As you can see, small dogs are more vulnerable in the cold, whereas bigger dogs can withstand lower temperatures. Do keep this in mind when taking your furry friend for a walk, and avoid walking any dog when temperatures drop below -10℃, even if they’re wearing a coat. 

For puppies and older dogs, it’s better to exercise a little bit more caution, as they could be more vulnerable to the cold too. If you’re at all unsure, it’s probably best to keep them in.  

 

Can I walk my dog in -4℃?

As you can see from the chart above -4℃ is either potentially unsafe or dangerous depending on what size dog you have. If you have a small or medium sized dog, or a puppy we recommend staying home and using enrichment activities to keep them busy. However, if you have a large dog, walk them with caution or stay home. If you do decide to walk a larger dog, we recommend keeping their walk shorter and properly dry them off once you're home. 

 

How Long Should You Walk Your Dog In Cold Weather? 

Generally, it’s best to cut your walks short when it’s really cold outside. The longer your pup is outside, the lower their body temperature will go, so it’s best to give them a few shorter walks instead of giving them one long walk. 

For temperatures above -4℃, medium to large dogs can walk for around half an hour, whereas smaller dogs should be limited to around 20 minutes. However, do keep in mind that other factors can make it feel colder outside than it actually is. For instance, a strong wind can take a relatively mild day to a freezing cold one. Walking in the snow can be fun too, when it’s a lovely sunny day, but if you’re walking in wet sleet or through sludgy snow, your dog’s body temperature can drop quite quickly, even when they’re moving. You should stop your dog from eating snow, as this can bring their temperature down too. 

You should be able to walk your dog in winter, when it’s perfectly sunny or when it’s a little bit rainy. Just do take into account other weather factors and how long you’re outside for. 

Labrador in quilted coat Labrador in green personalised dog drying coat

 

Do Dog's Paws Get Cold?

Just like our hands and feet, your dog's paws can get cold too! However, over time their paws have adapted to help them from freezing. Their arteries bring warm blood from their body to their paws and back up their legs, rather than loosing the heat through their skin, this is known as a countercurrent heat exchange. To help keep your dog's paws warm, make sure to dry in between their paw pads after a walk and wash off any salt and grit they may have walked through. You can even use some paw balm after to help stop their paw pads from cracking. 

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Recognising Separation Anxiety in Dogs When it comes to separation anxiety in dogs, symptoms often manifest within minutes of your departure. Paying attention to these indicators helps you catch any anxiety early, ensuring you can take steps to manage your dog’s stress before it escalates. Common Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs Excessive Barking or Whining: If your dog regularly barks or whines as soon as you leave—or even when you’re just getting ready to go—that may be a clear sign of anxiety. Destructive Behaviour: Dogs with separation anxiety might chew furniture, rip up cushions, or claw at doors. This is often an outlet for pent-up stress. Pacing and Restlessness: Keep an eye out for constant pacing near doors or windows. Restless behaviour can indicate your pup is on edge. Urinating or Defecating Indoors: Accidents can happen for medical reasons, but if it only happens when you leave, it may stem from anxiety. Escaping Attempts: Some dogs will try to escape confinement by digging or scratching at doors or crates, which can lead to injury if left unchecked. If any of these anxiety in dogs symptoms sound familiar, it’s a good idea to consult with your vet to rule out any medical causes. Once you know it’s separation anxiety, there are strategies and products to help them cope. Want to know more about how to support a dog with anxiety? Our Pet Experts have covered it in this handy guide, they’ve put together all their tips and tricks so you can best support your anxious pup. Spotting Cat Separation Anxiety Cat separation anxiety can be more subtle than what we typically see in dogs, but it’s no less real. Cats are often portrayed as independent creatures, but many develop strong bonds with their owners and can become distressed when left alone. Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats Excessive Meowing or Yowling: A typically quiet cat might become noticeably vocal when you’re about to head out—or while you’re gone. Over-Grooming: Cats with anxiety may lick or groom themselves excessively, sometimes leading to bald patches. Litter Box Issues: Much like dogs, cats might begin “going” outside the litter box if they’re stressed about you leaving. Clinginess: Some anxious cats follow their owners from room to room, showing signs of distress if they can’t see you. Hiding or Withdrawal: On the flip side, anxious cats might retreat and hide for long periods, seemingly avoiding interaction to cope with stress. If these signs of separation anxiety in cats resonate with you, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to help ease your cat’s mind. Creating a calm environment and providing engaging toys or scratchers can help your feline friend feel more secure while you’re away. What About Kitten Separation Anxiety? Kittens are at a formative stage in their life, and kitten separation anxiety can set the tone for how they cope with alone time as adults. If a kitten becomes overly dependent on constant human contact, they may struggle to adapt when left by themselves. Ensuring your kitten gradually experiences short periods of alone time can help them develop healthy independence. Combine this with plenty of interactive toys and comforting bedding to offer them both mental and physical stimulation. How to Help Pets with Anxiety Managing pets with anxiety is all about creating a calm environment and gradually helping them realise that being alone is not something to fear. Here are some tried-and-true methods: Establish a Routine: Pets thrive on consistency. Try to feed them, walk them, and interact with them at roughly the same times each day. Positive Departures and Arrivals: Keep greetings low-key. Making a big fuss when you leave or come back can reinforce anxious behaviour. Instead, try leaving and returning calmly, with minimal fanfare. Safe, Cosy Spaces: Whether you have a dog or a cat, providing a comfortable “den” area—like a crate for dogs or a cat tree with a quiet hideaway spot for cats—can be extremely reassuring. For dog owners, we offer a range of calming anti-anxiety faux fur dog beds at Lords & Labradors that give pups a sense of security. The ultra-soft faux fur and supportive design can make a world of difference for an anxious dog. Interactive Toys and Puzzles: Give your pets something to focus on while you’re away. Puzzle feeders, treat dispensers, or scratching posts can keep them mentally engaged and distract them from your absence. For dogs we love the Nina Ottosson range of interactive toys, they keep our pups busy for ages! And for cats we love the Catit Senses circuits, they're great for stimulating your feline's mind. Scent Familiarity: Leave an item of clothing you’ve worn in their bed or safe space so they can find comfort in your familiar scent while you’re gone. Consider Calming Aids: Talk to your vet about whether calming supplements or pheromone diffusers could help reduce anxiety levels. We stock a range of pheromone diffusers here at Lords & Labradors, they work by replicating the pheromones that your dog or cat’s mum would have given off when they were puppies and kittens so can really help to put your pet at ease. Gradual Desensitisation: If your pet becomes anxious when they notice “departure cues” (like picking up keys or putting on shoes), try exposing them to these cues without leaving. Pick up your keys, then set them back down—repeat until it’s no longer a trigger. Building Confidence in Your Pet Fostering independence is crucial for pets with anxiety. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend alone. Start with just a few minutes—perhaps while you take out the rubbish—and slowly build up to longer periods. Praise and reward your pet’s calm behaviour when you return. Over time, they’ll learn that being alone isn’t something to worry about. Our Must-Haves For Pet Separation Anxiety Calming Anti-Anxiety Faux Fur Dog Beds: Our calming anti-anxiety faux fur dog beds are soft yet durable, perfect for making alone time feel safe and restful. Available in all of our best selling bed shapes there's sure to be a bed which meets your pet's needs! Pet Remedy Calming Collection: These diffusers and sprays are natural way of tackling stress and anxiety in cats and dogs, Pet Remedy calming spray and plug-ins work alongside the brain’s natural messengers called neuro-transmitters, which work by telling the nerve receiving the message either to calm or get ‘fired up’. In times of stress or anxiety the nerves get over stimulated, which leads on to the many different signs of stress we see in our pets. The special Pet Remedy blend of essential oils works alongside these natural relaxation pathways to help calm the nerves of anxious or stressed pets without the need for sedation. When to Seek Professional Help If you’ve tried introducing routines, calming products, and training techniques but still notice persistent pet separation anxiety, it’s time to talk to a professional. Vets, certified animal behaviourists, or qualified dog trainers can provide tailored advice and interventions. In some cases, medication might be recommended, but this is typically considered after other strategies have been tried. Final Thoughts Pet separation anxiety can feel overwhelming, but rest assured there are plenty of ways to help your furry companions feel more comfortable during alone time. By understanding what anxiety in dogs and cat separation anxiety look like—and using supportive strategies like routine, safe spaces, and comforting products—you’ll be well on your way to improving your pet’s well-being. Remember: spotting anxiety in dogs symptoms or the signs of separation anxiety in cats is the first step. From there, consistent effort, patience, and a dash of creativity can make a world of difference. If you need extra support, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. And if you’re looking for products to make your pet’s downtime more soothing, explore our Calming Anti-Anxiety Collection to keep your pet feeling secure and pampered. After all, a calm and confident pet is a happy companion—no matter how long you’re out and about! We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of how to spot separation anxiety in your pets and what you can do to help them relax.

    By Megan Willis

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  • Basic Doggy First Aid Every Dog Owner Should Know
    10.06.25 June 10, 2025 Health

    Basic Doggy First Aid Every Dog Owner Should Know

    If you’re a dog owner, you know that our four-legged friends are more than just pets; they’re cherished members of the family. Just like any family member, our dogs can encounter cuts, scrapes, bites, or even more serious emergencies that require immediate attention. Having a solid grasp of dog first aid can make all the difference in helping your dog recover quickly and comfortably. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips to help you stay prepared. We’ll also look at why having a dog first aid kit is a must for every responsible dog owner. Why You Need a Dog First Aid Kit A well-stocked dog first aid kit is the first step toward being fully prepared for emergencies. Having everything in one place allows you to respond quickly when accidents happen—whether it’s a small cut or something more serious like choking. Many injuries can be managed effectively at home if you have the right tools and knowledge, but even when professional vet care is needed, administering immediate first aid can help stabilise your pet’s condition. Recommended Dog First Aid Kit When putting together a pet first aid kit for dogs, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we recommend choosing a comprehensive kit like the Charlie the Vet Pet First Aid Kit, available at Lords & Labradors. It’s designed by experts to include all the basics you need to tackle everyday emergencies, from bandages to antiseptic wipes. Key Items in a Dog Medicine Kit It’s not just about having a kit; it’s about having the right items in it. While every dog’s needs can differ, here are a few universally recommended staples: Bandages and Dressings – For covering wounds and stopping bleeding. Antiseptic Solution or Wipes – For cleaning and disinfecting minor cuts and scrapes. Tweezers or Forceps – Helpful for removing splinters, ticks, or small foreign objects. Gauze Pads and Rolls – Ideal for dressing larger wounds. Adhesive Tape – To secure bandages in place, ensuring they don’t shift. Disposable Gloves – To keep the area sterile and protect yourself while administering first aid. Scissors – Blunt-ended scissors can help you cut bandages or remove hair around a wound safely. Digital Thermometer – So you can accurately measure your dog’s temperature. Emergency Contact Numbers – Keep your vet’s number, along with any emergency helpline numbers, handy in your kit. Additionally, if your dog has pre-existing conditions, consult your vet about including any special medication in your dog medicine kit. How to Handle Common Canine Emergencies Dogbite First Aid A dog bite can vary from a minor nip to a serious wound. If your dog has been bitten—or if your dog bites another dog—the steps for immediate dogbite first aid are similar: Stay Calm – Approach the situation with a clear head. Panicking will only stress your dog more. Assess the Wound – Look for puncture marks, bleeding, or swelling. Stop the Bleeding – Use a clean cloth or gauze to apply gentle pressure if there’s active bleeding. Clean the Area – Gently wash the wound with mild soap and water, then apply an antiseptic solution. Apply a Sterile Dressing – Cover the wound with a clean dressing from your pet first aid kit for dogs. Seek Veterinary Advice – Even minor wounds can become infected, so it’s always wise to consult a vet after a bite incident. Choking Dog First Aid Choking in dogs can happen unexpectedly—dogs are curious creatures and might swallow inappropriate items. Knowing the basics of choking dog first aid can save your pet’s life: Look for Signs – Gagging, difficulty breathing, or pawing at the mouth can indicate choking. Check the Mouth – Carefully open your dog’s mouth to see if the object is visible. Use tweezers from your dog med kit to remove it if you can see it clearly. Perform the Heimlich Manoeuvre (If Necessary) – For smaller dogs, hold them with their back against your chest and apply gentle yet firm pressure just below their ribcage. For bigger dogs, place your arms around the dog’s waist (while they stand) and give a quick, upward thrust. Vet Check – Even if you manage to remove the obstruction, a follow-up exam is a good idea to ensure no harm was done to the airway. Dog CPR: Life-Saving Techniques In extreme cases—like severe accidents or near-drownings—you might need to perform dog cpr. This is a critical skill every dog owner should understand. Knowing how to do cpr on a puppy is particularly important because puppies are more vulnerable and can deteriorate quickly. It’s definitely worth looking if there are any pet first aid courses in your area or if your vet can help teach you this critical skill. Preventing Emergencies While knowing basic dog first aid is crucial, prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few tips to keep your dog safe and healthy: Supervise Playtime – This helps you prevent your dog from chewing or swallowing hazardous objects. Keep Toxic Substances Out of Reach – Household cleaners, certain plants, and human foods like chocolate or grapes can be dangerous if ingested. Maintain a Nutritious Diet – A well-balanced diet promotes a stronger immune system and overall health. Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations – Reducing the risk of infectious diseases will help limit the need for emergency treatments. Grooming and Regular Check-ups – This helps you catch any unusual lumps, bumps, or cuts early on. Conclusion Whether you’re a novice dog owner or an experienced handler, understanding the basics of dog first aid can make all the difference in an emergency. From assembling a reliable dog first aid kit—like the Charlie the Vet Pet First Aid Kit—to mastering techniques such as choking dog first aid or cpr on a puppy, being prepared and knowledgeable is the best way to protect your furry friend. Quick responses not only help your dog physically but also provide peace of mind, knowing you’ve done everything possible for your beloved companion. As always, remember that first aid is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If you have concerns about your dog’s health, or if the situation appears severe, don’t hesitate to contact your vet right away. In the meantime, having a dog med kit on hand and the know-how to use it ensures you’re ready to help at a moment’s notice.Stay safe, stay prepared, and always keep your pet first aid kit for dogs within arm’s reach. After all, our dogs offer us unconditional love—being prepared to help them in an emergency is the least we can do.

    By Megan Willis

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