The Ultimate Guide to Cold Weather Dog Walks

Winter in the UK brings a certain magic to our daily dog walks. From the crisp morning frost on the fields to the crunch of fallen leaves. However, as the temperature drops, our responsibilities as pet parents change. Ensuring your dog stays warm, safe, and motivated during chilly British winter dog walks requires a bit of extra preparation.

At COYA Pet, we believe that the cold shouldn't stop the fun. With the right gear and a pocket full of premium treats, winter dog walks can be the highlight of your dog's day. Here are our top tips for mastering cold dog walks.

1. Wrap Up Warm For Your Dog Walks (Both of You!)

It’s a common misconception that all dogs have a "built-in fur coat" that protects them from everything. While breeds like Huskies or Malamutes thrive in the snow, many others - especially short-haired breeds, sighthounds, or senior dogs - feel the bite of the UK wind just as much as we do.

• Invest in a good coat: Look for something waterproof and fleece-lined. A high-visibility strip is a massive bonus for those murky 4:00 PM sunsets.
• Protect the paws: Salt and grit used on UK roads can be incredibly irritating to a dog's paw pads. Consider using a paw balm before you head out to create a protective barrier.

2. Keep the Engine Running with COYA

When it’s cold, your dog’s body works harder to maintain its core temperature, which means they burn more energy. This is where high-quality motivation comes in.

Standard treats can sometimes lose its appeal when there’s a freezing wind blowing, but COYA Freeze-Dried Raw Treats are a game-changer for winter walks. Because our treats are freeze-dried, they retain all the intense aroma and nutritional value of raw food without the mess.

• Training on the go: Use COYA treats to practice recall. The strong scent of raw meat is much more enticing in the cold, ensuring your dog keeps their focus on you rather than a distant squirrel.
• Energy boost: A few pieces of COYA during a long walk provide a healthy, protein-rich energy boost to help them stay warm and active.

3. Be Seen, Be Safe

In the UK, winter light is notoriously poor. Between the "big grey" clouds and the early nights, visibility is your number one priority.

• LED Collars: An LED collar or a clip-on light for their harness allows you to spot your dog instantly if they are off-lead.
• Check your lead: Ensure your lead is sturdy; freezing temperatures can sometimes make plastic components on retractable leads brittle.

4. Watch Out for Winter Hazards

The British winter landscape holds a few hidden dangers that every owner should be aware of:

• Antifreeze: This is highly toxic to dogs and often tastes sweet to them. Even a small lick from a puddle near a car can be fatal. Always wash your dog’s paws when you get home from your dog walks to ensure they don't lick off any chemicals.
• Ice Safety: Never let your dog walk onto frozen ponds or lakes. The ice in the UK is rarely thick enough to support their weight, and the consequences of falling through are devastating.

5. Short and Sweet is Okay

If the weather is truly abysmal—the kind of horizontal rain only the UK can provide—don't feel guilty about keeping the walk short. Mental stimulation can be just as tiring as a long hike.

If you have to cut the walk short, spend some time at home doing "scent work." Hide some COYA Freeze-Dried Raw Treats around the living room and let your dog find them. It keeps their brain sharp and their belly happy while you both dry off.

6. The Post-Walk Routine

The walk doesn't end when you step through the front door. A good post-walk routine prevents illness and keeps your house clean.

• Dry thoroughly: Use a dedicated dog towel or a drying robe. Pay special attention to their underbelly and paws.
• Check for grit: Ensure there are no salt crystals or small stones stuck between their toes.
• Warmth and Hydration: Ensure they have plenty of fresh water and a cosy, draught-free place to nap.

Winter walks are a fantastic way to bond with your dog and enjoy the changing seasons. By prioritising safety, warmth, and the right nutrition, you can make every frosty outing a success.