Husky News

A lot of people face the year’s first snow with dread, and identify snow with cabin fever.  If you’re the kind of person who likes to go out and have fun in the snow, and you happen to have a dog, then you should consider taking your dog with you.  Dogs are actually better adapted to the winter than people, and there are many fun things you can do with them when winter comes around.

by randihausken

Going outdoors and getting a lot of exercise is best for both people and dogs.  This holds just as true in the winter as in any other season.  If you do plan on going outdoors with your dog in the winter there are some measures you may want to take to make sure your dog is not in any danger.

All dogs are better adapted to winter than better people, Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies for instance actually thrive in the harshest winter climates; there is no need to take special measures with such dogs.  However, if you own a Labrador, or Doberman, or any other short haired breed, you might want to put your dog in a sweater.  Some pet stores even sell rubber boots for dogs; these protect their foot pads and keep warmth in.  If the winter is particularly cold, check on your dog from time to time, if he shows any signs of discomfort from the cold, take him indoors.

You’ll find your dogs will love a lot of winter activities.  Take your dog on long winter hikes, or even ice fishing.  Dogs can actually be taught to ski, and pet stores do sell skis for dogs.  Some more daring owners have been known to even take dogs sledding, although it should be said that most dogs never learn to enjoy that experience.

Apart from appreciating the time outdoors, your dog can provide great companionship, and also protect you from some dangers inherent to fun winter activities.  Should you get lost trekking or ice fishing, or should you have a skiing accident, wouldn’t you feel much safer with your dog by your side?

There is no reason to cut your dog out of any winter fun, so if you care about your dog, and want his companionship all through the winter, then go ahead, take him along, you’ll find winter is that much more fun for it.