Keeping Your Dog Safe and Comfortable During Winter Walks
Winter in North Metro Atlanta may not bring heavy snow, but the chilly air, frosty mornings, and early sunsets can make daily dog walks a bit more challenging. Whether you’re strolling through Roswell’s greenways or looping around your Duluth neighborhood, your dog still needs regular exercise — and that means finding ways to stay safe, warm, and comfortable when temperatures drop.
Here’s your complete guide to making winter walks enjoyable for both you and your pup.
Dress for the Weather
Even in Georgia, some dogs need extra protection from the cold. Short-haired breeds, senior dogs, and smaller pups can lose body heat quickly.
Try this:
- Invest in a well-fitted dog coat or sweater for chilly days.
- Use reflective gear or LED collars for early morning and evening walks.
- For longer outings, pack a lightweight blanket or towel in your car to wrap them up afterward.
If you’re in Alpharetta or Johns Creek, where open areas can get windy, opt for wind-resistant layers that help maintain body warmth during breezy walks.
Protect Those Paws
Cold pavement, salt, and rough terrain can be hard on your dog’s paws — especially when walking through suburban streets or park paths.
To protect their paws:
- Apply a paw balm before walks to prevent cracking.
- Consider booties for extra protection, particularly on sidewalks treated with salt or de-icer.
- Rinse and dry paws after every walk to remove any residue that could irritate their skin.
Local trails like Big Creek Greenway in Roswell or McDaniel Farm Park in Duluth are great for avoiding salted roads while giving your dog safe, clean paths to explore.
Choose the Right Time of Day
Afternoons are often the warmest and safest time for winter walks. Avoid walking early in the morning or late at night when frost or icy patches can appear on sidewalks and grass.
If your schedule allows, aim for midday walks in sunny areas like East Cobb Park or Brook Run Park in Dunwoody — both offer open, dog-friendly spaces where your pup can enjoy the fresh air without the chill of shaded trails.
Keep Walks Short and Sweet
Dogs still need movement, but long winter walks can lead to overexposure.For more fun, safe ways to keep your pup moving this season, read the best ways to keep your dog active during the winter months for simple indoor and outdoor ideas that keep tails wagging all winter long.
Instead of one long outing, break your walks into shorter sessions throughout the day. This keeps your dog active without risking cold stress or sore paws.
Stay Hydrated and Energized
It’s easy to forget about hydration when it’s cold, but dogs still need plenty of water — especially after walks.
Bring a collapsible bowl and offer fresh water during and after your outing.
Adding a little warm water to their meals can also help them stay hydrated in winter months.
Watch for Warning Signs
Even mild cold can affect dogs differently. Keep an eye out for:
- Shivering or trembling
- Lifting paws off the ground frequently
- Slowing down or stopping suddenly
- Whining or appearing anxious
If you notice any of these, it’s time to head home and warm up.
Make Home a Cozy Retreat
After every winter walk, give your dog a warm, dry spot to rest. Wipe down their coat and paws, and make sure their bed isn’t placed near a draft or cold tile floor.
Pro Tip: Keep your yard clean and poop-free during the colder months — frozen waste still carries bacteria and can make outdoor time unpleasant. Clean Paws Scooping keeps your yard fresh, safe, and ready for play all season long.
Keep Your Dog Safe, Clean, and Happy All Winter Long
From Alpharetta and Roswell to Duluth and East Cobb, Clean Paws Scooping helps pet owners maintain a clean yard year-round — so winter walks end with a happy tail, not a messy paw.
Request your free instant quote today at cleanpawsscooping.com and enjoy a cleaner, safer yard for your next walk.
