When the temperature dips below 45 degrees, you might feel like a quick pee break is enough and your dog doesn’t need a walk. If you are like me, and you moved to North Carolina to escape the cold, if the temperature dips below 30 degrees, you might decide to boycott all dog walks and the outside. Instead, bundle up, get out there with your dog, or call Peak City Puppy to do it for you!
Physical Health Benefits of Dog Walks
You have probably heard from your doctor about the massive health benefits of walking and cardiovascular activity. The same holds true for your furry friend. Regular walks lessen the probability of obesity and improve joint health. Walks improve muscle strength and they help aid digestion. The physical exercise will help your dog sleep better at night and potentially increase their longevity as well. Walks are just good for our physical health- people and pups alike.
Mental Benefits of Dog Walks
Dog walks also play an important role in your dog’s mental health. Dogs tend to have built-up energy that can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, and mischief making. My dog likes to go find a Squishmallow or other human toy to chew up if he’s been alone at home too long. Exercise also releases endorphins, making your pet feel good. If you’ve ever watched Legally Blonde, you might recall that “happy people don’t kill people.” The same concept applies to dogs: happy dogs don’t destroy property.
But It’s Cold Outside!
As unfair as it seems for the temperatures to dip below 50 degrees, remember that your dog is wearing a fur coat. As long as you are not outside for an extended period of time, your dog will do fine on their walk.
It is worth noting that some breeds are more at risk during cold weather, so always keep an eye on your pet and watch for signs of shivering or lifting of their paws. If your dog doesn’t tolerate the cold as well, you can purchase a sweater or coat for them to wear.
My dogs are smaller, short haired, and not used to snow. During our recent cold snap, my pup walked about a block and then wouldn’t put his back legs down in the snow. (His brother was having way more fun in the snow.) I prodded him a bit but then took his continued behavior more seriously and I carried him back down the street to our house. (He has a bit of a flair for the dramatic, but it was cold!)
- 32°F–45°F. Small, short-haired, or senior dogs may have trouble and you could put a coat on them.
- 20°F–32°F. Can be dangerous for dogs with shorter coats, especially if damp or windy. Dogs should have limited time outside.
- Below 20°F. This is quite cold for most breeds. Walks should be kept short.
- Below 10°F . Risk for serious cold-related illness even for hardier breeds. Limit time outside.
A Dog’s Life
Remember that a dog’s life is painfully short. It seems like they just graduate from terrible puppy behavior and are then quickly thrust into old age. Walks are an incredibly important part of a dog’s life. Walks allow them to sense and connect with nature, to breathe fresh air, and to see their corner of the world. One day your dog will have trouble walking, and one day they will no longer be with you. On those days, you may find yourself wishing for your loyal friend to get just one more walk, regardless of temperature.
If you have any questions about dog walking or how to schedule Peak City Puppy walks, please reach out!
Peak City Puppy: https://peakcitypuppy.com/
Dog walkers: https://peakcitypuppy.com/dog-walking-2/
Dog sweater https://a.co/d/06YdJXkC
