The snow is falling, the winter winds are blowing, and your dog has a problem—snow is clumping on their legs! But don't worry, this guide will give you all the tips and tricks to keep your pup's paws happy and snow-free.
Read on to find out how to keep snow from clumping on your pup's legs this winter.
Snow clumps on your dog's legs and chest because the fur traps air, which creates insulation. This insulation also traps moisture, making it more likely that the snow will stick to your pup's fur instead of melting. Additionally, salt used to melt ice on roads can cause extra water retention in dogs' paws and chest fur. Because of this combination of factors, snow tends to accumulate quickly on a dog’s legs and chest during winter months.
Snow clumps are seriously annoying, but here's the thing.. they are somewhat preventable. We've listed out 3 tips on how you can reduce or eliminate snow clumps during winter walks, hikes and adventures with your pup.
The key to avoiding snow clumps on your pup's legs is preparation. Before taking them out in the cold, make sure they're wearing a protective coat or sweater that covers their fur down to the paw pads. This will help keep heat in and prevent moisture from getting in as well. Additionally, booties are a great way to protect their feet from icy temperatures and pesky snow clumps. If your pup isn't used to wearing booties, start by having them wear them for short periods of time indoors until they're comfortable walking around with them on outside.
If you forgot to dress your pup up for the cold weather before leaving home, brushing and drying their fur can help remove excess moisture and prevent it from becoming trapped between their legs and fur. Start by brushing out any knots or tangles that might be trapping excess moisture before drying them off with a warm towel or cloth. Make sure not to use an electric dryer as it may irritate their skin! Once they're dry, brush through their fur again so that no flakes of snow remain stuck in between the hairs.
Pet safe products like Paw Wax or Musher's Secret can provide an extra layer of protection against both cold weather conditions and annoying snow clumps. Apply the product directly onto their coat and paw pads before taking them outdoors; this will create a barrier between the elements and their skin while also keeping moisture away from sensitive areas such as between toes where clumps might form more easily than elsewhere on their body. Additionally, consider applying a paw balm after coming indoors for extra moisturizing power!
Long-haired dogs are the most susceptible to snow clumps in their fur. Dogs with thick coats and heavy, long fur are more likely to experience snow clumping than short-haired breeds. Additionally, breeds with dense undercoats and large paws can also be more prone to developing snow clumps due to their natural insulation and the fact that they tend to stay outside longer during cold weather. Mixed breed dogs may also be particularly susceptible as it is difficult for owners to know what exactly lies beneath all of that fur!
Dogs with short coats, such as Greyhounds, are the least likely to develop snow clumps. Additionally, small dogs and those with fine fur, like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians, will generally have an easier time avoiding snow clumps due to their low body mass and lightweight fur. Breeds that naturally shed more often also tend to be less prone to snow clumping due to their lower levels of insulation and shorter coat lengths. Mixed breed dogs with short yet dense undercoats may also find it easier than other breeds when it comes to avoiding snow clumps in their fur. In general, any dog who is kept warm during colder weather should be able to avoid developing a nasty case of the dreaded snow clumps!
It's clear that snow clumps can be a nuisance to both you and your pup, so make sure to follow our tips to keep your dog free from clumps this winter.