How do you stay safe dog walking in winter?
In winter, walk your dog on cleared routes, wear boots with good grip or ice cleats, and keep the leash short so a sudden pull cannot take you down on ice. Protect paws from salt and de-icers, and wipe them after every walk. Wear reflective gear and put a light on your dog for dark mornings and evenings. Keep your phone warm and set a return time so Holler alerts your Guardians if you are late.
Winter walks for you and your dog
01Stay upright on ice
A dog lunging at a squirrel is a real fall risk on an icy sidewalk. Use a fixed-length leash rather than a retractable one, keep it short, and wear cleats or deep-tread boots. Hold the leash in your hand, not wrapped around your wrist, so you can let go rather than be pulled down, and practice a solid "wait" at curbs before the ice arrives.
02Protect paws from salt and chemicals
The ASPCA suggests rubbing petroleum jelly or a vet-approved paw protectant into the pads before you go out, or using booties, which also stop salt and sand lodging between toes. Wash and dry your dog's feet and belly after each walk. Antifreeze is lethal to dogs, so steer clear of driveway puddles and use pet-friendly ice melt on your own steps.
03Keep your dog on leash in snow
The ASPCA warns that dogs can lose their scent in snow and ice and get lost, so it advises never letting a dog off leash on snow or ice, especially during a storm. Frozen ponds are another reason: a dog that runs onto thin ice is a dangerous rescue, and you should call 911 rather than go out after it.
04Dress both of you for the cold
Short-haired dogs may need a coat or sweater that covers from the base of the tail to the belly, according to the ASPCA. For you, the CDC lists a hat, mittens or gloves, a face covering, water-resistant boots and loose layers. Mittens are easier to keep on while holding a leash and, per the National Weather Service, warmer than gloves. Keep the walk shorter on bitter days.
05Light up both of you
Winter dog walks often happen in the dark. Wear a reflective jacket or clip light, and put a lit collar or harness on your dog so drivers see two moving shapes, not one. A small light also helps you spot ice and what your dog is sniffing at.
06Keep your phone warm and set a return time
Apple says very cold conditions can temporarily shorten iPhone battery life or switch the phone off. Carry your phone in an inner pocket, not an outside leash bag. Then set a return time in Holler: if you slip and do not check in five minutes after it, your Guardians get an overdue alert with your location.
Related questions
How cold is too cold for my dog?
It depends on breed, size, coat and age. The ASPCA's rule of thumb: if it is too cold for you, it is probably too cold for your pet. Keep walks short and watch for shivering, lifting paws or reluctance to keep going.
What if I fall on ice and my dog runs off?
Look after yourself first. Tap SOS in Holler so your Guardians get your location, and call 911 if you are hurt or cannot get up. A Guardian can come to help you and look for your dog. See getting help while dog walking alone.
What are the signs I am getting too cold on a long walk?
The CDC lists shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech and drowsiness as hypothermia signs. Fumbling with a leash clip or poop bag is an early clue. Head home, get out of wet clothes, and call 911 for confusion or drowsiness. Our winter running safety guide covers cold-weather layering in more depth.
Where can I read more about night walks with a dog?
Our page on dog walking alone at night covers lights and routes, and the dog walking safety hub collects everything else.
Go deeper
More questions about this activity
The same question for other activities
Compare your options
Sources, checked September 2026: ASPCA: Cold weather safety tips, CDC: Preventing hypothermia, National Weather Service: Staying safe in the cold, Apple Support: If your iPhone or iPad gets too hot or too cold.
More safety answers, or see the safety guides.