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Top Tips for winter dog walking

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Lots of us find winter tough, it brings new challanges for us and our dogs and with shorter daylight hours and cold and wet weather conditions it can be more difficult to ensure that we have happy, healthy dog walks. But don't despair, here are our top tips for winter dog walking.

1. Be prepared - it sounds obvious, but check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. You know your dog best, make sure they're warm enough out on a walk but also make sure you have a towel to rub them down with and a cosy bed in the car for the journey home.

2. Be safe, be seen! Remember your torch for finding your way and picking up poo in the dark. Consider some kind of light or reflective coat for your dog too, especially if you're going to be walking near traffic or if you're heading out for an off lead walk.

3. If your dog likes to swim, remember that rivers and streams will be deeper with faster currents after heavy rain. Don't let your dog into flood waters, there can be hidden dangers under the water. If your dog has enjoyed a swim, remember that temperatures will be much lower at this time of year.

4. If you're spending more time at home, indoor games with your dog can be great for mental stimulation and can help with ongoing training too.

5. Join a Devon Loves Dogs guided group walk. Waggy Walks are free and we walk all year round, we only cancel walks if the weather forecast is dangerous. Walking in a group is great fun for people and dogs, you might learn a new route and make new friends at the same time.

If you're keen to find out more, here are some top tips from the Dog's Trust to keep your dog safe, active and happy during the winter months https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/help-advice/dog-care/cold-weather-advice

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Dogs Trust information poster