Winter Walks Done Right: How to Keep Your Dog Comfortable, Calm, and Safe in Canadian Cold Weather

Winter changes everything — the pace of life, the streets, and even the way we move through our daily routines with our dogs. Snow-covered sidewalks, icy temperatures, wind chill and shorter days mean that winter walks require more intention than summer strolls.

For many pet parents, especially newer ones, cold-weather walking comes with challenges they didn’t expect: shivering pups, stiff movement, paw discomfort, or dogs that suddenly seem reluctant to go outside. The good news? Most winter walking issues are simple to fix once you understand your dog’s needs and adjust your routine accordingly.

With mindful habits, the right gear and a calm approach, winter walks can become just as enjoyable — if not more meaningful — than walks in warmer seasons. And with thoughtfully designed essentials like Puccissimé’s comfortable harnesses, soft cotton shirts and weather-friendly layers, you can protect your dog while keeping every outing refined and effortless.

Let’s explore the most common winter walking mistakes — and how to fix them.

 

1. Prioritizing Distance Over Comfort

In winter, many pet parents continue walking the same routes and distances they do in warmer months, without realizing how much colder temperatures affect their dog’s body. Cold muscles tire more quickly, joints can feel stiff, and small or short-haired dogs lose heat faster than expected.

When comfort is ignored, walks become rushed, stressful, or even physically uncomfortable for your dog.

Fix it with:

• Shorter, more frequent walks instead of one long outing
  
  

• Paying attention to signs of cold like shivering or slowing down
  
  

• Letting your dog set the pace instead of pushing forward
  
  

Puccissimé tip: Comfort-first walks pair perfectly with soft, breathable cotton shirts that help regulate body temperature without restricting movement.

2. Skipping Proper Winter Layering

Many pet parents underestimate how much layering matters in winter. While some dogs have thick coats, others rely on us to provide warmth and protection from wind and cold air. Improper or bulky clothing can restrict movement, while poorly fitted pieces may shift or cause discomfort.

The right layers should feel natural — almost unnoticeable — to your dog.

Fix it with:

• Choosing lightweight, breathable fabrics that trap warmth
  
  

• Ensuring clothing allows full shoulder and chest movement
  
  

• Avoiding oversized or stiff winter gear
  
  

Puccissimé tip: Puccissimé pieces are designed to layer seamlessly, keeping dogs warm while maintaining elegance and ease.

3. Ignoring Paw Protection and Surface Conditions

Salted sidewalks, icy patches and compact snow can irritate paws quickly. Many dogs won’t immediately show discomfort, but subtle signs like lifting paws or hesitating can indicate irritation.

Over time, this can lead to cracked pads or resistance to walking altogether.

Fix it with:

• Avoiding heavily salted areas when possible
  
  

• Wiping paws after walks to remove salt and ice

• Keeping walks shorter on especially cold or icy days
  

4. Starting Walks Too Quickly

Cold weather often makes humans want to rush — but dogs need time to warm up, especially in winter. Heading out the door too quickly with an excited or tense dog sets the tone for a chaotic walk.

A calm beginning helps your dog feel secure and ready to navigate winter conditions.

Fix it with:

• Taking a moment for calm behavior before leaving
  
  

• Putting on harnesses and leashes slowly and gently

• Starting at a relaxed pace for the first few minutes
  

5. Using the Wrong Harness or Leash for Winter Layers

Not all walking gear works well over winter clothing. A poorly fitted harness over layers can shift, rub, or distribute pressure unevenly — especially when dogs pull slightly more due to cold stimulation.

The right walking gear should support your dog, not compete with their outfit.

Fix it with:

• Choosing harnesses designed to sit properly over clothing
  
  

• Ensuring pressure is evenly distributed across the chest
  
  

• Pairing with a leash that offers control without stiffness
  
  

Puccissimé tip: Puccissimé harnesses are designed for small to medium dogs and maintain proper fit even with seasonal layering.

6. Overlooking Mental Stimulation in Winter

Winter walks often become rushed, purely functional outings — but dogs still crave enrichment. Sniffing, exploring and observing their environment are essential for emotional well-being, especially when outdoor time is limited.

Without enrichment, dogs may seem restless or disengaged.

Fix it with:

• Allowing safe sniffing time, even in short walks
  
  

• Changing routes occasionally to offer new scents
  
  

• Letting your dog pause and explore at their own pace
  
  

7. Expecting Summer-Level Energy

Cold temperatures naturally lower energy levels — for dogs and humans alike. Expecting your dog to perform with the same enthusiasm or speed as in summer can lead to frustration on both sides.

Winter is a season for slower, softer routines.

Fix it with:

• Adjusting expectations for pace and duration
  
  

• Rewarding calm behavior instead of high energy

Ending walks on a positive note before fatigue sets in

8. Forgetting Weather Changes Throughout the Day

 

 

 

Winter weather can shift quickly. A walk that feels manageable in the morning may become colder or windier later in the day.

Being unprepared can turn an outing uncomfortable.

Fix it with:

• Checking wind chill before heading out
  
  

• Adjusting layers depending on time of day

• Choosing sheltered routes on particularly cold days

9. Rushing Home Instead of Enjoying the Moment

Cold weather often makes us eager to “get it over with,” but dogs sense this urgency. When walks feel rushed, dogs may pull, resist or disengage entirely.

Winter walks are an opportunity to slow down and reconnect.

Fix it with:

• Breathing and moving intentionally during walks
  
  

• Letting your dog lead small moments of exploration
  

• Treating winter walks as quality time, not a chore

10. Forgetting That Winter Walks Are About Connection

At their core, walks are about more than exercise — they’re about trust, rhythm and shared experience. Winter offers a quieter backdrop for these moments, where every step feels more intentional.

When walks are calm, comfortable and well-supported, dogs feel secure — and that security shows in their behavior.

Fix it with:

• Creating consistent winter routines
  
  

• Choosing gear that supports comfort and confidence
  
  

• Approaching each walk as a shared ritual
  
  

Puccissimé tip: Thoughtfully designed shirts, harnesses and accessories help transform winter walks into moments of warmth, beauty and connection.

Final Thoughts: Winter Walks, Refined

Walking your dog in cold winter doesn’t have to feel challenging or uncomfortable. With mindful adjustments, proper layering and supportive gear, winter walks can become deeply grounding moments in your day.

The more intentional your routine, the more confident your dog becomes — and the more enjoyable each outing feels. At Puccissimé, we believe every walk deserves elegance, comfort and care, no matter the season.

Because winter walks done right aren’t about enduring the cold — they’re about embracing it, together.