Snowy trails, crisp air and a dog leaping happily through fresh powder – a winter vacation with your dog can be wonderful. To keep it that way, a little preparation goes a long way.
Finding the right place to stay
- Ask whether dogs are really welcome in the room and whether there are extra fees.
- Easy outdoor access makes the last walk in freezing temperatures much simpler.
- A spot to dry your dog and the towels is worth its weight in gold in winter.
How sensitive is your dog to cold?
Dogs with a thick coat usually cope well with cold. Short-haired, small, young, older or lean dogs get cold much faster. Shivering, a hunched back or lifting their paws are signs it's time to warm up. For dogs that feel the cold, a well-fitting dog coat can make sense.
Paw care in the snow
- Snowballs: Ice clumps can form in long fur between the pads. Keeping that fur short helps.
- Road salt: After walks, rinse paws with lukewarm water and dry them – salt irritates the skin and shouldn't be licked off.
- Protection: A paw balm before the walk, or dog boots for long hikes on hard snow.
Staying safe in the snow
- It gets dark early in winter: pack a light-up collar or clip-on light.
- Frozen lakes and streams are off-limits – the ice often holds less than it looks.
- In ski areas, keep dogs on a leash and stay off slopes and trails where dogs aren't allowed.
- Offer enough water in winter too. Eating snow is no substitute and can upset the stomach.
And the cat?
Most cats prefer to stay indoors on a winter trip. If your cat comes along, give them a warm hideout, their usual litter box and a place they can't slip out of unnoticed.
Everything for your trip with your pet
Packing lists, travel paperwork checklists, tips for finding places to stay and 10 pet-checked destinations are all in our travel guide Wanderlust on Four Paws – Traveling with Your Dog & Cat. Instant PDF download. ❄️