7 Winter Tips for Dogs Walking in Snow (Scandinavia Edition)

Winter in Scandinavia is beautiful—but rough on dog paws. Here are 7 simple winter tips to help your dog enjoy snowy adventures safely and comfortably:

• Trim Paw Hair: Long fur between paw pads traps snow and ice balls, which can hurt. Keep fur trimmed short but not shaved.

• Paw Balm: Apply a dog-safe balm before walks. It shields paws from salt and helps prevent cracking.

• Booties (if they’ll wear them): Not every dog likes boots, but it’s worth trying. Choose Scandinavian designs with soft lining and grippy soles.

• Warm-Up First: Let your dog trot around a little before heading into deep snow so their muscles warm up gradually.

• Shorten Walks in Cold Snaps: When it’s below -10°C, shorten walks and keep playtime closer to home.

• Check for Ice Balls: Pause during walks to remove any ice or snow packed between toes.

• Wash and Dry: After returning home, rinse paws with lukewarm water to remove salt and chemicals. Dry well, especially between the toes.

Remember, every dog has their cold tolerance. Watch for shivering or lifting paws and keep walks safe and positive all winter long.