Experts share how to keep your pets safe during snow and ice walks

Searches for ‘dog coats’ have seen a 98% spike in the last week 

Over the last few days, many UK areas have seen moderate to severe snow and ice, with temperatures falling to -12 °C in some areas. These extreme conditions mean many of us are facing prolonged cold spells and hazardous conditions. Whether it’s frosty mornings or snowy strolls, colder conditions can be tough on our dogs. It is important to prepare your dog before walks. 

Edward Creaser, Director of the Natural Dog Food Company, shares his tips to help keep your dog safe and warm during snowy and icy walks. 

Winter hazards: antifreeze, frozen ponds and puddles

While on walks, owners must be careful of the environment, as snow and ice bring hidden dangers. Here are some hazards to watch out for: 

• Antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol, is highly toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Always store it securely and clean up spills immediately. Watch for symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, collapse, changes in urination, loss of coordination, weakness, unsteady movement, unusual behavior, or seizures, and contact a vet immediately if any occur.
• Don’t let your dog drink from puddles or standing water, which may be contaminated.
• Avoid walking near frozen lakes or ponds – dogs can fall through thin ice, and rescue attempts can be extremely dangerous. If your dog has hypothermia, dry them thoroughly with warm towels, wrap them in blankets, and offer lukewarm water. Move them to a warm, draft-free area and get to a veterinarian immediately, as hypothermia is a serious emergency even if your dog appears to recover. Avoid direct heat sources like radiators or hairdryers, which can cause burns or shock.

Protecting paws from ice, grit and road salt 

In snowy and icy conditions, pavements and roads are treated with grit and salt. These can often irritate your dog’s paw pads and may be harmful if licked off. Ice can also get trapped between toes, which can lead to an injury. 

Here’s what you can do to help protect your furry friend’s paws: 

• Rinse with warm water after walks, or use pet-friendly paw wipe.
• Trim the fur between paw pads to prevent ice build-up.
• Keep nails trimmed short to improve grip on slippery surfaces.

Does your dog need to wear a coat? 

All dogs can feel the cold, just like humans, during winter months. Certain types of breeds are less tolerant to low temperatures, such as short-haired dogs (like Greyhounds or Whippets), who struggle to retain body heat. Small or short-legged breeds (like Dachshunds) also get colder faster due to their size and proximity to the ground. If you have a puppy or older dogs, you must be vigilant, as they’re also vulnerable to winter conditions. 

If you want to help them, a coat or well-fitting jumper can be very useful and help retain warmth on snowy walks. Always choose breathable, weather-resistant materials for maximum comfort.