There’s something about the crisp, cold air, and crunch of snow on the ground that makes winter hiking quite an enjoyable experience. And what better way to experience it than with your dog? However, winter hiking requires some extra preparation and considerations before hitting the trail. Here are some rules to keep in mind before heading out on a winter hike with your dog.
Consider Your Dog’s Abilities
Dogs can’t tell us how they feel or what they need, so it’s important to make sure you’re not pushing your dog beyond his/her limits. Huskies are working dogs built for cold weather activities. Larger dogs are better able to navigate through deep snow than smaller breeds. And small dogs can have greater difficulty keeping themselves warm. Careful consideration of your dog’s breed, age, health and overall ability should dictate the trail you choose, the length of your hike, and the gear you bring.
Choose The Right Trail
Shorter, flatter, and more populated trails can provide a good introduction to winter hiking. Check Alltrails for trail descriptions and read reviews to get a sense of the current conditions. Keep in mind the recent weather, as both ice and fresh snow can make a trail far more difficult to navigate. Is the trail more difficult than you thought or you realize you’re unprepared? Don’t be afraid to turn around and try it another day when conditions are different or you’re more prepared. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially in the winter.
Be Prepared In Case Of An Emergency
Always carry the 10 essentials when you’re hiking, during any season. This includes extra food, water and warming materials for both you and your dog. If your dog gets injured, consider how you’re going to get him/her off the trail. We carry the Pack-a-Paw rescue harness that is lightweight and easily fits into a daypack without taking up much room. It’s far better to over-prepare than under-prepare when going on a winter hike with your dog.
Keep Your Dog On The Trail
Even if your dog has reliable recall and the trail does not require leashes, keep in mind that winter hiking brings a range of hidden hazards. Snow can easily mask sharp sticks or barbed wire, while lakes or ponds might not be able to hold your dog’s weight if he/she runs onto the ice. Getting in the way of other hikers or cross-country skiers poses risks of collisions or lacerations from the skis. Keeping your dog close on the trail can prevent encountering such dangers. Consider bringing a long leash if your dog needs extra room to explore.
Bring Extra Protection
Bring extra protection for your dog, even if he/she might not end up needing it. Paw wax can help dray/cracked pads and prevent snow and ice buildup. A dog jacket with a shell outer layer and synthetic insulation can both repel moisture and stay warm even when it gets wet. Bring something to protect your dog from the ground while resting on a break, such as a lightweight foam pad or waterproof blanket.
Have Proper Food And Water
Make sure you bring enough food and water, and don’t rely on finding water on the trail. Letting your dog eat snow instead of bringing water also won’t provide the hydration he/she needs. Eating too much snow can drop your dog’s core body temperature and increase the risk of hypothermia. Not to mention, snow can contain contaminants not necessarily apparent to the naked eye. Bring treats that won’t harden in cold temperatures and be difficult for your dog to chew, or carry them in your pocket to benefit from body heat.
Know If Your Dog Is Cold
Unfortunately, dogs can’t tell us how they feel. So it’s important to know the signs indicating your dog might be too cold. According to the Ontario SPCA And Humane Society, these signs include:
- Shaking or shivering
- Hunched posture with a tucked tail
- Whining or barking
- Change in behaviour, like seeming anxious or uncomfortable
- Reluctance to keep walking or tries to turn around
- Seeks places for shelter
- Holds paws up off the ground
Very cold paws, nose, ears, or tip of the tail, or any discoloration in those areas, can be early signs of frostbite. Warm your dog up or seek veterinary help as appropriate.
Watch Out For Skis and Snowboards
While winter almost eliminates the chance of dirt bikers zipping by, it does increase the chance you’ll be passed by winter sport enthusiasts. Skis and snowboards can spark the herding instinct in many breeds or cause others to become frightened and defensive. They cause serious injury if they come in contact with your dog. Make sure your dog is trained to ignore these potential distractions, or keep your dog on the leash.
Start Small
If you’re new to winter hiking, it’s best to start small and work your way up. Start with a short 10-15 minute hike, especially if temperatures get to below freezing. Build in breaks, and extend the time you spend hiking as both you and your dog get used to the winter conditions. It’s better to start small and work up than go too hard and push your and/or your dog beyond the appropriate limits.
Be Prepared To Change Course
Maybe you got to the trailhead and realized the trail conditions are not what you expected. Or maybe you’re five minutes in and realize it is much colder and windier than you thought. Be prepared to change your plans or abandon them altogether. While it can be disappointing to turn around and go home, it’s far worse to put yourself and your dog in danger. Winter hiking leaves little room for being ill-prepared or taking chances, so it is best to play it safe.
What are your tips and tricks for going on a winter hike with your dog? Let us know!