Posted: August 22, 2025
Last winter, I learned the hard way that my short-haired mutt Bernie is NOT built for Michigan winters. Picture this: 15-degree morning, fresh snow, me all bundled up thinking “dogs love snow!”
Ten minutes into our walk, Bernie is shivering, lifting his paws, and giving me the most pathetic “why are you doing this to me?” look. I felt terrible. Here I am thinking I’m being a good dog parent by maintaining his exercise routine, and I’m actually making him miserable.
That experience taught me that winter prep for dogs is just as important as it is for humans.
What I learned about cold weather and dogs:
Size and coat matter A LOT:
- Bernie is 45 pounds with a thin coat – he gets cold fast
- My neighbor’s husky could probably sleep in the snow
- Small dogs lose body heat quicker than big dogs
- Puppies and senior dogs feel the cold more
Signs your dog is too cold:
- Shivering (obvious, but I ignored it at first)
- Lifting paws repeatedly
- Seeking shelter or trying to turn back home
- Moving slowly or seeming stiff
- Whining or acting anxious
My winter dog gear list now:
- Dog coat – I was skeptical, but Bernie loves his. Got a waterproof one with fleece lining
- Booties – Took some getting used to, but protects against salt and ice
- Paw balm – Prevents cracking from salt and dry air
- Reflective gear – Gets dark so early in winter
Indoor exercise alternatives I discovered:
- Tug of war in the living room
- Hide and seek with treats around the house
- Teaching new tricks (mental exercise counts!)
- Playing on stairs (great for older dogs)
- Puzzle toys to keep them busy
Winter hazards I didn’t think about:
- Salt on sidewalks – Burns their paws and toxic if they lick it off
- Antifreeze – Sweet taste but deadly, check your garage/driveway
- Ice – Dogs can slip and get hurt too
- Snow buildup – Long-haired dogs get ice chunks between their toes
What works for us now:
- Short walks (15-20 minutes max) when it’s really cold
- Longer walks on warmer winter days
- Indoor play sessions on the worst weather days
- Quick potty breaks instead of forcing long walks
The gear that actually helps:
- Coat: Yes, even for “tough” dogs if they have thin coats
- Booties: Worth the struggle to get them used to it
- Reflective leash/collar: Safety first in winter darkness
- Towels by the door: For wiping off salt and snow
What I skip:
- Fancy sweaters (the coat is enough)
- Expensive paw wax (basic stuff works fine)
- Those little hats (Bernie was not having it)
Real talk: I used to think dog clothes were silly and unnecessary. Then I saw how much happier Bernie was on cold walks when he wasn’t shivering. Now he actually gets excited when I bring out his coat because he knows it means walk time.
The goal isn’t to keep them inside all winter, it’s to keep them comfortable and safe so they can still enjoy being outside. Bernie and I still take daily walks, just shorter ones with the right gear.
Bottom line: Pay attention to your individual dog. Some love snow, some tolerate it, some hate it. Adjust accordingly and don’t feel bad about cutting walks short when it’s miserable out. Your dog will appreciate it.
Spring can’t come soon enough, but at least we’re prepared now!