
How to Keep Your Dog Safe & Comfortable this Winter!
With snow in the forecast and temperatures dropping, it’s essential to ensure your dog stays safe, warm, and comfortable this winter. Canadian winters can be harsh, but with a few simple precautions, you can keep your furry friend happy and healthy through the cold weather.

1. Bundle Up for Walks
Our Guide and Service Dogs are well-equipped to handle cold weather. Labrador Retrievers have a double-layered coat that provides natural insulation – an inner layer of soft, weather-resistant fur helps retain body heat, while the outer layer is dense and coarse, offering water resistance and additional warmth.
Unlike humans and some other animals, dogs do not sweat across their entire bodies, which helps them retain heat more efficiently after physical activity. However, despite their natural adaptations, these dogs are still vulnerable to extreme cold. Their ears, tails, and paw pads can be susceptible to frostbite, and prolonged exposure to frigid temperatures can lead to hypothermia.
To keep them safe in winter, handlers should monitor their dog’s comfort, limit exposure to harsh conditions, and ensure their fur stays as dry as possible. A little extra care during colder months helps keep these hardworking companions safe, warm, and ready to assist.
2. Protect Their Paws
Snow, ice, and road salt can be tough on a dog’s paws. Protect them by using dog booties, which provide insulation and grip. If your dog isn’t a fan of boots, consider a thinner type of boot for more comfort, allowing them to feel the ground underneath and become accustomed to wearing them.
3. Limit Time Outdoors
Even with a warm coat, dogs can get cold quickly in extreme weather. Limit their time outside and watch for signs of discomfort, such as shivering, lifting their paws frequently, or trying to turn back home. Always provide a warm place to return to after outdoor activities.
4. Wipe Off Snow and Salt
After every walk, wipe your dog’s paws, legs, and belly with a warm, damp cloth to remove any snow, ice, or salt. Ingesting road salt or de-icing chemicals can be harmful, so ensure their paws are clean before they start licking them.
5. Keep Them Hydrated
Dogs still need plenty of fresh water in the winter, as dry, cold air can lead to dehydration. Ensure their water bowl is always filled with clean, unfrozen water, and consider using a heated bowl if they drink outside.
6. Avoid Frozen Ponds and Lakes
Thin ice is a serious hazard. Keep your dog on a leash near frozen bodies of water to prevent them from falling through. Even if the ice looks solid, it may not be strong enough to support their weight.
7. Create a Cozy Indoor Space
Make sure your dog has a warm and comfortable place to rest inside. Provide a soft bed away from drafts, and consider an extra blanket for added warmth. If your home is particularly chilly, a heated pet bed can be a great option.
8. Be Visible in the Dark
Winter means shorter daylight hours, making visibility a concern. Equip your dog with reflective gear or an LED collar to ensure they’re visible during evening or early morning walks.
9. Know the Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite
Dogs can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite in extremely cold weather. Watch for signs such as:
- Shivering
- Lethargy
- Pale or discolored skin (especially on ears, tail, and paws)
- Stiffness or difficulty walking If you suspect hypothermia or frostbite, move your dog to a warm place and contact your veterinarian immediately.
By taking these precautions, you can help your dog enjoy winter safely. Whether they love bounding through the snow or prefer to stay cozy indoors, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping them healthy and comfortable this season.
Stay safe and enjoy the winter wonderland with your pup!