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Canada. Winter. Cold. It’s not a “Connections” game. But what do these words have in common?
Yes. Depending on where you’re located, the temperatures in winter can be very cold. And it’s a challenge to stay strong and venture outside when the cold air is freezing. But there are hardy souls who enjoy winter.
I don’t mind the winter if I’m dressed appropriately. And it should be the same with your dog.
Many dogs will tell you when they are uncomfortable. Not all dogs, of course — some energetic dogs seem willing to march into a blizzard — but many will hesitate at the door, lift their paws, try to turn back, or simply refuse to continue.
Dog coats are popular now. Many dogs seem to be wearing the latest fad outfits — and that’s okay. It’s not about how they look. It’s about keeping everyone comfortable and safe and warm so that we all can enjoy the outdoors — even in winter.
But don’t forget that your dog walks on his unclothed paws. In some ways, it’s like you’re going outside with your bare feet.
Road salt may actually deserve more attention than boots. Many dogs can walk comfortably in cold temperatures but are bothered by salt, which can irritate paw pads and lead to excessive licking afterward.
So How Cold Is Too Cold?
It’s going to depend on the individuals to some degree.
Your dog will tell you if it’s too cold to be outside. Watch for:
- Lifting paws off the ground
- Refusing to continue walking
- Shivering
- Whining
- Seeking shelter
- Curling up tightly
The paw-lifting behaviour is often the first clue. Many dogs will suddenly stop and hold one foot up because the pads are becoming painfully cold. It’s exactly what I would do if I were outside and very uncomfortable.
The dog I look after has his own way of expressing his opinion about winter weather. On particularly cold mornings, he’ll walk toward the door, take one look outside, and then back away quite dramatically. He’s clearly decided that today is not the day for a long walk.
Dogs are often very good at telling us when they are uncomfortable — if we pay attention.
Ice, Snow, and Salt
Ice, packed snow, and salt can cause more discomfort than the air temperature itself.
You may notice:
- Cracked paw pads
- Ice balls between toes
- Salt irritation
Some owners rinse their dog’s paws after winter walks for this reason.
Just as you might need creams or balms for your exposed skin in the winter — particularly your lips — you might take the same care with your dog. After all, he’s a member of your family!
If your dog’s paws become irritated by road salt or ice, you may wish to apply a protective paw balm before heading outdoors. Products such as Musher’s Secret were developed in Canada and can help protect sensitive paws during winter walks.
The Wind Chill Factor
One thing that is interesting is that the feel of the temperature changes with the wind chill. A sunny morning with almost no wind at -20°C may feel quite pleasant, whereas a very windy -10°C can feel far too cold. And that applies to much warmer temperatures too.
If conditions are severe, it may be wise to shorten the walk and save the longer outing for a warmer day.
According to the Government of Canada:
- 0 to -9 wind chill: Low risk.
- -10 to -27 wind chill: Moderate risk; frostbite becomes possible during prolonged exposure.
- -28 to -39 wind chill: Exposed skin can freeze in 10 to 30 minutes.
- -40 to -47 wind chill: Exposed skin can freeze in 5 to 10 minutes.
- -48 to -54 wind chill: Exposed skin can freeze in 2 to 5 minutes.
- -55 or colder: Exposed skin can freeze in less than 2 minutes.
The Canadian government also states that the risk of frostbite increases rapidly once wind chill values fall below -27°C.
As for dogs, there isn’t a single official Canadian chart — because breed, size, coat thickness, age, and health all matter enormously. However, Environment Canada frequently includes the advice:
“If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside.”
There are winter mornings when the thermometer says -15°C, but if the wind is coming off the lake, it feels vastly colder. Those are the days when both people and dogs decide the walk should be a little shorter than usual. 😊
The best adage to follow is simple: If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside.
The bag I use on every walk is the Earth Rated lavender poop bag, available on Amazon Canada — reliable, easy to tie, and always in my pocket.
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