01/21/2026
Friends with dogs, you might be bundled up for a walk in the cold, but your dog has pads (no shoes), and hits that cold directly (ouch!)
1. Paw pads can freeze and burn.
In extreme cold, paw pads can get frostbite in minutes. Ice melt and salt make it worse by causing chemical burns and cracking.
2. Lungs and airways take a hit.
Breathing super-cold air can irritate the lungs, especially in small dogs, seniors, and short-nosed breeds.
3. Hypothermia risk is real.
Dogs lose heat fast through their paws, ears, and belly. Minus temps + wind = dangerous very quickly.
4. “They seem fine” isn’t a safety sign.
Dogs will often push through discomfort because they’re excited or loyal. That doesn’t mean it’s safe.
A good rule?
If it hurts your face to be outside, it’s too cold for your dog to go on a walk.
What’s reasonable instead:
