Cold Weather vs. Hot Weather Walking: Tips to Protect Your Pup

Dogs don’t care if it’s blazing hot or bone-chilling cold—when the leash comes out, they’re ready to roll. But as dog owners, it’s on us to make sure our pups stay safe and comfortable no matter what the weather throws our way. Whether you’re bundling up in January or sweating it out in July, here’s how to keep your dog’s walks fun, safe, and healthy all year long.

Beating the Heat

Summer walks feel great… until you realize the sidewalk is hotter than a cast-iron skillet. Dogs’ paws are tough, but they’re not fireproof. A good rule of thumb? If you can’t hold the back of your hand to the pavement for five seconds, it’s too hot for your pup’s paws.

Tips for hot weather walks:

• Walk early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
• Stick to grass, dirt trails, or shaded paths instead of pavement.
• Carry water for both of you. Yes, dogs get dehydrated just as fast as we do.
• Watch for signs of overheating: heavy panting, drooling, slowing down, or looking wobbly. If you see these, it’s time for a break in the shade.

Remember—dogs don’t sweat like we do. Their only way to cool off is through panting and their paw pads. Keeping walks shorter on really hot days is better than pushing it too far.

Conquering the Cold

When winter hits, the game changes. Some dogs (hello Huskies) live for snowy adventures, while others (looking at you, Chihuahuas) step outside, shiver, and immediately vote to go back inside. Either way, cold weather has its risks.

Tips for cold weather walks:

• Protect their paws from ice, salt, and chemicals. Booties help, or at least wipe paws off after the walk.
• Keep walks a bit shorter in freezing temps—especially for smaller or short-coated dogs.
• A dog jacket or sweater isn’t silly if your pup needs it. If they’re shivering, they’re not being dramatic—they’re cold.
• Avoid frozen ponds or lakes—thin ice is a disaster waiting to happen.

The key in winter is balance: enough outdoor time for exercise and stimulation, but not so long that your pup risks frostbite or hypothermia.

All-Weather Gear That Works

Here’s the good news—you don’t need to change up your leash and collar with every season. Our Commander Collar and Leash were designed to handle whatever the weather throws at them. Rain, snow, mud, or blazing sun—our gear holds strong, won’t fray, and gives you dependable control no matter the conditions. Because the last thing you want to worry about on a freezing morning or sweltering afternoon is your leash giving out.

Final Thought

Every season brings its own challenges, but also its own adventures. Hot weather means evening walks under glowing sunsets. Cold weather means crisp air and maybe even some playful snow zoomies. As long as you take the right precautions, your pup can enjoy it all right alongside you.

So grab your gear, check the forecast, and head out. Rain, shine, heat, or snow—your dog’s tail will be wagging either way.