Winter Weather Safety Tips for Dogs

During the winter months, your pomsky will love playing in the snow. They will enjoy the cool crisp air when you go on a walk together. Pomskies also like digging in the snow, playing fetch, and jumping around in the snow. This post covers the necessary steps and precautions to take to ensure your dog is staying safe and healthy while still having loads of fun.

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Protect the Paws

It is important to protect your dog’s paws all year long, but especially during the winter months.

Wipe the paws: Use gentle grooming wipes to clean your dog’s paws and tummy after they have walked on roads or sidewalks that may contain salts or chemicals. After returning inside, be sure to wipe the paws and tummy before your dog has the opportunity to lick their paws.
Moisturize the paws: Your pomsky’s paws can become dry and cracked during the winter months. Use a natural restoring balm and massage it into your dog’s paw pads to lock in the moisture.
Trim fur around the paw pads: Carefully trim fur between your dog’s paw pads. This will prevent snow from getting packed between toes which reduces the chances of your dog getting dry paws or frost bite.
Wear boots: Protect your dog’s paws by putting dog boots on. Dog winter boots will shield the paws from getting cold, wet or from touching salts and chemicals on the pavement. Dog boots take a while to get used to and some dogs will not tolerate these on their paws. However, they can be very beneficial once your dog is accustomed to them.

Walk in the Sunlight

Taking your pomsky on walks while the sun is out will benefit both you and your pomsky. The sunlight gives you vitamin D and extra warmth during walks. The sunlight also increases your visibility to other people and cars so you won’t need to use a light up collar or flashlight.

Play outdoors frequently for short durations

When it is very cold, take your pomsky outside multiple times a day. Spending a short amount of time outside with your pomsky will prevent them from getting frostbite and will keep their mind and body active. If your dog is digging in the snow while you are outside, check to see what they are digging for. There may be garbage, animal droppings, or other materials buried under the snow that could cause your dog to get sick.

Prevent dry skin

A dog’s skin can get dry in the winter just like our skin gets dry. Massage coconut oil into your pomsky’s coat to moisturize their skin. It is also helpful to run a humidifier in your home to keep moisture in the air, thus reducing the chances of dry skin.

Protect from heaters

During the winter months, your pomsky might be drawn to heat sources. Walk through your home and ensure all heat sources are safe for your dog and will not cause burns. Keep the following precautions in mind to keep your dog safe:

Place space heaters out of reach or do not use these
Cover baseboard heaters
Put a fence around the fireplace

Remove snow piles and icicles

When shoveling snow on the sidewalks or your driveway, strategically place the snow piles. Dogs will take full advantage of using snow piles to jump to the roof, decks, and other structures, so place snow in other areas or spread the snow out so it does not form a ramp for your dog. Remember to remove icicles from the roof and balconies so they do not fall on your dog while they are playing outside.

Summary

The winter is a fun time for pomskies to play outside in the snow. Make sure you care for your dog’s paws and skin so they do not get too dry. Play outside for short durations and when the sun is out to receive maximum benefits. Cover or block off heat sources to keep your curious dog safe.

Enjoy the winter wonderland with your pomsky!