So, here are some top tips for winter dog walking:

• Grit, salt and de-icer. During the winter months there is likely to be grit and salt on the roads and pavements which is bad for your dog’s feet and can also make them ill if they lick their paws, so remember to give your dog’s paws a rinse in warm water when returning from your walk. Make sure you wash away any de-icer that might have spilt when topping your car up as this is highly toxic to dogs.
• Snow can become trapped in dogs’ paws so ensure you keep their hair short in between their pads to help this.
• Make sure you keep your dog and yourself safe when walking in the dark. There are lots of USB rechargeable collars for your dog available, reflective coats, leads and flashing lights. Wear lighter colours yourself and invest in a good torch.
• Depending on your dogs, breed, size and coat it might be necessary for your dog to have a coat depending on the weather conditions, but it will vary from breed to breed. But remember to do what is right for your dog and make sure they are comfortable.
• Make sure you keep yourself safe, walk in lighter areas that are well lit, ensure your mobile phone is charged and you have it with you, so you are contactable and make sure someone knows where you are.
• Please remember that it’s a legal requirement to have a tag on your dog’s collar with your surname, your address and postcode. While it’s not a legal requirement I’d also recommend your telephone number on there.
• It is important to let your dog’s sniff it’s how they get so much of their information. There is loads of communication going on between other dogs from what they can smell. It’s good for their well-being. So please when you’re out and about, do let them sniff it is important. 
• Depending on the age and breed of your dog, you may need to consider building up the duration of walks. Don’t go from a 10-minute walk to a 2 hour for obvious reasons. We know if we do any exercise, how much we can ache, so bear that in mind. If your dog is not used to walking build up the duration gradually. If you have an older dog, or young pup or are just generally unsure on how long you should be walking your dog for, then always speak with your vet.
• Be aware that not all dogs are off lead and can go off lead, some dogs have injuries or are rescues that may have had traumatic experiences and maybe undergoing some rehabilitation work. So, if your dog does go off lead, please do your best not to just let your dog approach other dogs without seeking permission first.
• Keep your dog away from frozen water such as lakes, ponds, and rivers as it’s impossible to tell how secure the surface is. Keep them on a lead if you think they will be tempted to jump in.
• Lasty don’t forget the poo bags and always have more than you think you will need just in case.