Does your dog love snow? For many, they can’t wait to get outside to run, jump, and roll around in the fluffy, winter wonderland! As sweet as it is to watch dogs just being dogs, these snowy escapades often come with a less charming consequence: Pesky snow clumps clinging to their fur. It’s a familiar scene for many dog parents. While I live in North Carolina now (with two small dogs who prefer to only venture outdoors when the weather is far above freezing), that wasn’t always the case. I grew up in the northeast, where snow is abundant this time of year. I’ve had my fair share of experiences with dogs coming inside with snowballs stuck to their paws, legs, and chest. Not only is it a messy situation, but it can also be uncomfortable for our furry family members. Read on for practical tips to prevent and tackle the snowy dilemma!
Prevention is Best
You know what they say: Prevention is better than cure! So, before you open the door to let your dog play in the snow, consider these tips:
Trim Hair
Consider giving your dog a winter trim! Shorter hair is less likely to accumulate snowballs, making it easier to manage and keeping your dog more comfortable during winter play. Focus on trimming excess fur in and around their paw pads, thinning the hair on your dog’s legs, and shortening the fur on your pup’s chest. Talk to your groomer to determine the best winter cut for your dog’s breed and needs.
Dog Apparel
Invest in protective gear for your furry friend to minimize snow contact. While it may take your furry friend some time to get used to, dog booties are a great way to provide a barrier between your dog’s paws and the snow. Additionally, special dog snowsuits offer full-body coverage, keeping your dog warm and reducing the chances of snow sticking to their fur.
Paw Wax
If your pup simply refuses to wear dog booties, you can turn to paw wax. It’s a protective balm that protects a dog’s paw pads from harsh environmental conditions. While every brand makes its own unique paw wax concoction, it’s typically composed of natural ingredients like beeswax, oils, and sometimes soothing elements like vitamin E. In snowy conditions, paw wax provides a protective layer and can help prevent dryness and cracking. I use Natural Dog Company’s PawTection Balm Stick (it’s handcrafted in the USA and uses all organic ingredients). Musher’s Secret is another great brand!
Rub Coconut Oil on Exposed Areas
If some fur is still peeking out of a doggy snowsuit or jacket, consider applying a small amount of coconut oil to their fur. The slickness will help repel some snow from sticking, providing an extra layer of protection. This natural solution is safe for your dog and can contribute to a smoother winter grooming routine.
Tips to Tackle Snowballs
Despite your best efforts to prevent snowballs, if your pup comes inside covered in icy clumps, try these tips:
Hair Dryer on a Low Setting
This is one of my favorite methods to tackle snow clumps in doggy fur. Just grab your hair dryer, flip it onto its Low setting, and melt those pesky snowballs away. Make sure you keep a little distance between the hair dryer and your pup’s fur to avoid accidental burns.
Warm Water
If your dog isn’t comfortable with the noise and sensation of a hair dryer, perhaps the gentlest way to remove unwanted snow clumps is by using lukewarm water. For smaller or medium-sized dogs, you can place their legs into the sink and let warm water melt the snow away. For larger dogs, either fill a wash basin with lukewarm water to dunk their paws and melt the snow or dampen a washcloth with warm water and gently rub it over the snowballs. Ensure the water is comfortably warm to prevent discomfort.
The Whisk Hack
This hack has become quite popular thanks to various viral social media videos. All you’ll need is a regular wire kitchen whisk (yup – the one you use to bake a cake). Gently rub the whisk over your dog’s snow-filled coat to help knock off the snowballs. While this method may not work with all snow or hair types, many pet parents swear by this hack. In fact, some pleased pet parents have even appeared on their local news station, showing off the whisk hack and how well it works for their dogs. If you’re planning to try the whisk hack, please do so gently and be mindful of your dog’s dewclaws. You don’t want to accidentally catch any nails in the whisk!
