Winter Hazards for Your Dogs

First of all, let me begin by saying this is being written from the perspective of a Canadian. So winter is definitely a snowy time of the year. But just because there is snow doesn't mean there is a lack of things to do. For most people, there are just as many activities to do in the winter time as there are in the summer. Considering, in some places, winter is about half the year we've had to get creative.

Many people take part in skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, ice skating, playing hockey, or even just plain old playing in the snow. There are endless possibilities really and, after a while, you just get used to the cold weather.

One thing people don't often consider as we move towards the colder months of the year is our dogs. Every year stories come out about dogs that have been left out in the cold or dogs that have fallen through the ice or dogs that have died due to some other winter tragedy.

It happens annually and yet we face the same weather every year. So what is it that we need to pay attention to? What are the things that are a threat to our four-legged friends when the weather gets cold?

Here are five hazards that come along with winter that play a part in the health and happiness of your dog.

1. Know Your Breed

Many people get a dog because they like the way it looks and not because they know a great deal about the breed of the dog. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with this, get whatever dog you want, but there are certain elements about a dog breed that play a part in how it handles its environment.

If you get a Malmut, Siberian Husky, Newfoundlander, or St. Bernard (for example) then you may have a hard time convincing them to come inside once the weather gets cold. Their thick fur coats are well suited for the cold weather and they quite enjoy being out in the snow. There are several other breeds just like this and it would take way too long to list them all.

These dogs are often reluctant to be outside in the summer time, when even their lighter summer coat feels oppressive, but in the winter they are right at home. Their thick undercoat of soft fur keeps them warm and their coarse second coat of fur repels water to help keep them dry. This is also why it is often so hard to get these breeds thoroughly wet when bathing them.

However, if you have a Chihuahua, Greyhound, Dachshund, or Basset Hound you may find them extremely reluctant to venture outside once the weather starts to get a little chilly. It may be a battle just to get these dogs to go outside to use the bathroom, let alone taking them for walks.

This is because these dogs lack the soft, insulating undercoat of the winter loving breeds. They often have a single, coarse layer of fur or they have soft fur and do not shed.

It is important to know what type of coat your dog has as we approach the colder months because it will affect how they react to outside. You can even tell with mixed breeds or mutts by simply examining their coat. And if they do not have the proper coat to keep them warm, it may be best to give them an extra coat. Or simply keep them inside.

2. Mind Their Paws

When winter comes along we get to put on our warm, thick winter boots and trudge through the snow and ice. Our dogs don't have the same luxury. They have limited protection to their paws when they take off on outside adventures with us and it is important that we are aware of the hazards to our pets' feet.

Although, for the most part, paws are fairly sturdy things like road salt and ice shards can cause a great deal of discomfort to your dog. Be mindful of this when out walking them in the winter time. Additionally, walking on crusted snow (snow that has frozen on top but is powder underneath) can be hazardous as your dog can break through the hard top layer and it may hurt their paws or legs.

Some owners choose to give their dogs winter boots when out on walks. That is a perfectly fine decision if your dog is not opposed to wearing them. Otherwise, simply be aware of where you are walking and remember that they don't have thick rubber soles to protect the pads of their feet.

3. Poisons (Solids, Liquids, Gases)

Many people don't think about the hazards of poisons in the winter time, but they are rather abundant. And dogs have a habit of getting into things that they are not supposed to.

Rodent poison is a huge danger to all pets, not just dogs, and if you are putting down poison to keep the mice at bay over the winter be sure to place it in areas where your pets cannot access. Also, wash your hands thoroughly after handling the poison so that you are not ingesting it yourself or passing it onto your pets.

Antifreeze is the next big concern when it comes to dogs. Antifreeze is a wonderful thing in the winter time; however, if you have antifreeze leaking from your vehicle or you have spilt some outside it is a death trap for your local pets. Consuming antifreeze, even a small amount, is deadly to most animals as it can cause kidney failure. So be mindful of your chemicals.

Carbon monoxide is a threat to people and pets in the winter time. It is recommended that you do not leave your pet in the car in the winter while it is running in case of carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, be aware of your heating sources inside your home that may produce carbon monoxide and ensure you have functioning detectors in your home.

4. Know Your Trails

Accidents happen in the winter, probably too often. If you are out walking with your dog be sure you are familiar with the trails you are walking on. Be mindful of your surroundings and watch your step.

Falling snow is a huge risk in the winter time as if can fall from laden tree branches and land on your dog or you while walking. Branches may also break under the weight of snow or entire trees may collapse. Be watchful for such things while walking in the woods.

Additionally, keep an eye out for water hazards. Just because it is cold out does not mean that the water is frozen. You and your dog are at risk of falling through the ice during the winter. If your dog is off leash while you are walking along outside you may not have time to respond if they fall through the ice and your dog may be lost to the current underneath before you even know what has happened.

So be cautious, be aware of your surrounds, and stay safe while exploring the snowy outdoors.

5. Staying Warm Inside

With all this worry about outside, it is also important to make note of a few inside hazards. Pets have a habit of being curious, being disastrous, and getting into things that they aren't supposed to. So, ensure that your house is ready for them in the winter.

Be aware of the holiday plants you may be putting out in your house. Poinsettias are poisonous to humans and pets. So, ensure that they are out of the consumption range of your dogs. Holly, Mistletoe, Amaryllis, Chrysanthemum, Winter Bloom, and Rhododendron are also problematic if pets ingest them. And liquid potpourri can cause burns on the inside of your dog's mouth if ingested. So, keep your plants and scented goods out of reach of your four-legged friends.

Additionally, candles are great in the winter. They add some extra heat to your home and they give off lovely smells. However, ensure that they are safe and secure so that a stray tail doesn't knock them over and start a fire.

And, as mentioned earlier, be aware of how your home is heated. Have your furnace checked before the winter season begins to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Have your chimney maintained and keep your fireplace gated in order to prevent your dog from wandering too close. And don't leave electric heaters plugged in when you are out of the house.

Winter is a wonderful season. Keep yourself warm. Keep your dog warm. And enjoy the snow!