It’s often said that dogs go for a walk in any weather, and it’s only the humans who sometimes prefer to stay in. However, this is not always true. Some dogs would rather stay in the cozy, warm living room during bad weather – that is, if they didn’t have to attend to their business outside. But why is this, and how can you entice your four-legged friend to go outside? Sometimes, the answers are not as complicated as they seem.
It’s stormy – that can be scary. It’s raining – yuck, the fur gets wet. It’s cold – oh no, poor paws. There’s thunder – how dangerous. It’s hailing – well, there’s no argument there; your dog is right not to want to go for a walk. We’ve summarized most weather-related reasons. It’s somewhat understandable why your furry friend might resist going out, isn’t it? In doubt, the clever dog, if it could, would probably refer to the saying: “You don’t send a dog out in this weather.”
Maybe Your Dog Likes a Coat and Paw Shoes
With a few tips and tricks, you might be able to change your dog’s mind. A coat can protect against cold, wet, and windy weather, making walks more enjoyable. If your dog likes it, paw shoes can also be worn. This is especially recommended if there’s a paw injury or if your dog is sensitive to elements like ice, snow, salt, or gravel. Additionally, here are some tips for winter paw care.
Avoid Unpleasant Surfaces Under Paws
Heat can also create uncomfortable walking conditions because dogs have fur and only sweat through panting and paw pads. Hot asphalt in summer is not pleasant for bare paws. You can avoid heat and salt by walking on grassy areas and in the shade rather than on asphalt. In hot weather, walks should take place during cooler morning and evening hours, and you should carry a water bottle.
Persuade Your Dog with Treats and Toys
Persuasion might work with reluctant walkers. Treats can be as helpful as their favorite toys. Just take them along, show them to your dog, and see if it tempts them to venture outside and chase after the promised reward.
Towel and Massage as Lures
Those who bring a towel might also become popular. Whenever it rains, bring out the towel, and dry and warm your dog. If your dog realizes that this happens every time you go for a walk in the rain, they might be persuaded to take the stroll. Especially if they get another drying session and a comforting massage upon returning home.
An Attractive Destination Makes Bad Weather Forgettable
A far better argument for walking in bad weather is a tempting destination. Either arrange a meeting with another dog owner or head to a dog club with a clubhouse. Visiting a pet-friendly establishment can also be appealing if the owner brings a small snack for the dog. The key is to make it enjoyable, and the four-legged friend experiences something pleasant. Even a stroll to the nearest pet store, where your dog can essentially go shopping, can be a delightful experience. Exciting experiences are the best persuasion.
Variety is Fun Even in the Rain
Generally, going for a walk should not just be a stroll. If the dog doesn’t want to go out, you need an excellent idea for entertainment, variety, and fun. Try laying out a treat trail in front of the house – it might lure your dog outside, and once they’re out, the walk in the rain and wind might become enjoyable.
Your dog will be pleasantly surprised if the walk offers even more. Sporty dogs can run a slalom between trees, crawl under a park bench, or jump onto a fallen tree trunk in the forest to balance over it. Balls and frisbees can still fly in the rain.
Some dogs prefer searching for a thrown treat dummy or the human hiding behind a wall. This should make your furry friend reconsider: If this is always the case, I don’t want to miss it. With imagination and considering your dog’s preferences, you can achieve a lot. Just give it a try and see what happens.
