Walking in Winter When It’s Not a Wonderland

Winter is probably my favorite season (running a close second to autumn). The chilly air, the quiet streets, the hot apple cider—chef’s kiss. But if you’re local to the Twin Cities, you know that this time of year can make dog-walking… a whole thing.

If you’re not dodging piles of salt that could chew up a paw pad in seconds, you’re doing mental math about how long your pup can safely be outside when the wind chill dips to “why do we live here?” territory. Before you head out for a walk you’ll both regret halfway down the block, here are a few things to keep in mind.

The Salt Situation

This feels like a “duh,” but stay with me. Your dog might be totally fine with the cold—especially if they’re rocking a built-in winter coat. (Huskies, I know you’re judging the rest of us.)

But even snow pros need help with the real villain of winter: salt.

Not everyone uses pet-safe ice melt, and the standard stuff on sidewalks and roads can burn, crack, or dry out paw pads fast. Dogs who seem unbothered on snow can suddenly start doing The Paw Lift of Despair after a few steps on salted pavement.

A few ways to protect those paws:

• Booties
  Ideal for dogs who tolerate them (and yes, they will walk like little drunken robots for the first few tries).

• Paw wax
  A great alternative for pups who want to feel the ground but still need a barrier against salt and ice.

• Post-walk wipe-downs
  Always rinse or wipe paws after the walk to remove salt residue. It prevents cracked pads and stops them from licking the stuff off later.

Even dogs built for winter aren’t built for modern de-icing chemicals. A little prep goes a long way.

How Cold Is Too Cold?

It’s Minnesota, which means we routinely experience weather that would be illegal in other states. But every dog has a different threshold.

Here’s a quick guide:

Above 20°F

Most dogs are good for normal-length walks, especially if they’re moving. Small dogs may still need sweaters.

10°F to 20°F

Shorter walks are best. Break the outing into two or three mini-walks if your dog lives for sniffing.

0°F to 10°F

Large breeds and cold-weather dogs may still enjoy a quick outing. Smaller pups? In and out.

Below 0°F

This is “be quick about it” territory. Potty break, short loop, back home.
If it’s windy, assume it’s even colder. The wind chill does not care about your dog’s confidence levels.

Below -10°F

Congratulations, you live in the Midwest. Keep it short, keep it safe, keep it moving.

Signs it’s too cold:

• Paw lifting

• Shivering

• Whining

• Trying to turn back toward home (honestly, relatable)

If your dog is giving you “absolutely not” energy, listen.

Gear That Actually Helps (And Gear That’s Just Cute)

Must-haves:

• Booties or paw wax (salt protection)

• Sweater or coat (especially for small, short-haired, or senior dogs)

• Reflective gear (because the sun clocks out at 4:15 p.m.)

• A sturdy leash (gloves + sudden squirrel = slippery hands)

Nice-to-haves:

• Dog snood (keeps ears warm and is, admittedly, adorable)

• LED collar light

• Portable paw towel

Cute but not that helpful:

• Tiny scarves.

• Dog sunglasses.

• Anything requiring “just one more picture” at the door.

Warm-Up Walks & Short Sessions

In the winter, your dog’s walk doesn’t have to be one long trek. Shorter, more frequent outings can actually be safer and more satisfying. Think:

• Two 10-minute walks instead of one 25-minute slog

• A quick loop, warm-up break, another loop

• A sniffari around the yard, then a short street stroll

Your pup gets their enrichment without risking frostbite. Win-win.

Indoor Enrichment for the “Nope, Not Today” Days

There will be days (looking at you, -25 with wind gusts) when going outside simply isn’t smart.

Here are indoor activities that keep your pup happy until the weather decides to behave:

• Snuffle mats

• Puzzle feeders

• Hide-and-seek treats around the house

• Tug and fetch (hallway edition)

• Training sessions that burn mental energy

Even 10 minutes of problem-solving can tire out a dog faster than a walk.

There are also plenty of places, surprising as they may be, that allow dogs inside. Call your local Home Depot, hardware store, book store, or art supply store and see if they’re a pet-friendly business.

Final Thoughts (And Warm Paws)

Minnesota winters are beautiful, wild, and occasionally rude. With the right prep, you and your pup can still enjoy your outings safely, comfortably, and with minimal “I regret everything” moments.

Protect the paws. Layer up. Keep the walks smart, not heroic.

And when in doubt? A quick romp in the snow followed by couch snuggles counts as a successful winter walk in my book.