Before you head out on a winter hike with your dog consider this.
Love it or hate it winter will be here either way. I used to struggle with winter and was cold and bored for months. A few years ago, I decided to change my mind and embrace winter. It wasn't going anywhere, so for my own wellbeing I better find things to like about it. The natural thing to do was grab the dogs and head out for a hike and I have to say, there is something magical about walking on a snow covered trail.

Winter hiking does pose so different challenges, both for humans and dogs. Not only do we have to consider our own needs for the conditions, but our dogs as well. After several years of wandering around hiking over Nova Scotia through all seasons, here are a few things I take into consideration when planning to take the dogs on a winter hike.
Know your dog's individual preferences
Some dogs love to get out and play in the snow and would stay out for hours. Other prefer a blanket on the sofa. Many factors can contribute to their preferences, including breed type, age and energy level, but some of it just comes down to individual preference.

If your dog does not enjoy hiking in the winter there may ways you can help, or it might just be their preference to stay inside where it is warm. And that's ok! There is no need to force them into a cold weather hike if they don't enjoy it. There are plenty of ways to provide exercise and enrichment over the winter in the comfort of your warm home!
If your dog does want to participate, but does not enjoy the cold there are ways to help.
Is your dog fit for winter hiking?
Fitness for winter hiking is just as important for dogs as it is humans. Hiking in the cold, on slippery surfaces and through deep snow poses more challenge than a hike on a temeprate day on stable ground. If your dog is a regular hiker, they are likely physically fit, however you should still account for these challenges when planning a winter hike.
If your dog is not a regular on the trails, that is not to say they can't winter hike or are not physically fit, but you should adjust your expectations as to the amount of hiking they can do. Age, body condition (muscle mass and body fat amounts), health concerns and mobility issues can impact the dog's ability to hike in winter conditions. Cold temperatures, slippery surfaces and deep snow place increased demands on the body. This can result in dogs tiring more easily, more impact on joints and muscles and potential for injury. Always monitor your dog and adjust your hikes accordingly.

Do dogs really need jackets and boots?
A frequent comment on social media posts that show dogs in jackets or winter boots is "dogs don't need jackets/boots". This might be accurate for some dogs, but not all.
The answer to the "do dogs need jackets" question? It depends. Dogs with shorter coats, low amounts of muscle and body fat and older dogs may be more comfortable with a coat. Dogs with short coats and less body mass have less to keep them warm. Older dogs may not be moving around as much or as quickly and don't stay as warm.
As far as boots go, the answer to the question is the same. Some dogs will require boots to protect their feet from cold temperatures, salt on the ground, build up of snowballs and to help avoid aggraviting any skin conditions that may be worse do to cold and irritation. There are also commercially availble paw balms that can also offer protection from some of these issues. Sometimes though, dogs may just prefer the added protection gear brings.
If planning to use boots or jackets it is best to condition the dog to the gear rather than just place them on and expect the dog to be comfortable it in. There are many resources available that can help you learn to condition your dog to wearing coats or boots that are available from positive reinforcement, force free trainers. If you need help finding a source feel free to reach out!
Be prepared!
Winter hiking requires a lot of preperation for humans and dogs alike. This includes keeping an eye on the forcast and being ready to change plans if conditions change. Saftey for all involved should come first.
If you live and hike in mountain regions, avalanche saftey is a huge consideration. I am not an expert on this as I do not winter hike in areas this is a risk due to geographic location. However, I do know there are avalanche safety courses available and they are highly recommended for those traveling through avalanche risk areas.
Temperature and percipitation is another ever changing variable. Here in Nova Scotia we get a lot of mixed percipittion as the temps hover above and below freezig. This means changing from rain, to snow, to ice frequently. These temperatures and precipitation changes can mean the terrain gets more difficult to maneuver on, and there is increased likelihood of getting wet and cold, posing more risk for injury to dogs and humans.
Being prepared for these challenges means having a back up plan if things go wrong or conditions deteroiate. Never feel bad about turning back if it is the safest thing to do. Carry a first aid kit with items that can be used for your dog as well as people and some form of communication device if you need help. Cell phones may work in many areas, but if outside of cell service consider a satellite communication device.
Don't for get snacks and water for your pup. Water is one of the most overlooked things to pack on a winter hike. We don't often forget water when it's hot, but it is equally important to stay hydrated in cold temps. In the cold your dog is buring more energy to stay warm and move over the difficult terrain. Stop for water breaks frequently.
What would you add to this list to aid in winter hiking planning and preparation?

**The dogs are wearing the Hurtta Expedition Parka in photos contained in this post. These jackets were gifted as a part of a previous collaboration.
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