Husky (detailed introduction)

　　Snowflakes float in the sky like dandelions drifting in the wind. Usually, cheerful and romantic people especially like snow, but we find that dogs also like snow in real life. Barefoot and without any warm clothes, they play happily in the snow. Why do dogs act like they are not afraid of the cold on snowy days? And why do they like snow so much? What should we pay attention to when walking dogs outside on snowy days?

　　I. Why Dogs Like Snow

　　Many people speculate that most dogs become excited after snow mainly because the snow covers the scent of other dogs. When dogs find that there is no other dog’s scent, they try hard to mark their new territory. Actually, when we see dogs very happy, rolling and running in the snow, they are busy defining their new territory. Thinking carefully, this explanation makes some sense, but not all dogs have a strong territorial instinct, so why do they like snow? It may be another reason below.

　　There are many dog breeds, and many of them originally lived in icy and snowy environments for most of the year. For example, Samoyeds, Alaskan Malamutes, etc. They have an inherent affection and familiarity with snow, so when it snows, these dogs feel like they have returned to an ancient home. Thus, they love it, enjoy it, and feel comfortable.

　　Why dogs like snow, maybe we cannot give a definite answer, but it is certain that snow brings joy to dogs, so we can let them fully enjoy the atmosphere and happiness that this white snow brings to them.

Husky (detailed introduction)

　II. Why Dogs Are Not Afraid to Walk in Cold Snow

　　The latest research shows that the special blood circulation system in dogs’ paws ensures that the temperature of their paw pads does not get too low. Simply put, the arteries and paw pad veins are “neighbors.” When the dog steps into the snow, the temperature of the veins in the paw pads drops, and as a good neighbor, the arteries transfer heat over. Also, because the returning blood is warmed, dogs do not feel cold. This insulation mechanism is also found in animals like penguins and Arctic foxes. Scientists call this special blood circulation system the “countercurrent heat exchange system.”

　　In fact, many animals living in the snow have this “system.” Besides this special system, some animals can keep their body temperature normal through other means. For example, penguins adjust the blood flow in their feet to prevent frostbite, and Arctic foxes have thick and dense fur on their feet that keeps their paw pads away from the cold ground.

　III. Precautions for Walking Dogs on Snowy Days

　　Some owners have made walking their dog a part of daily life and feel uncomfortable if they don’t. So, they brave wind and rain without hesitation. Different weather requires different precautions. So what should we be aware of when walking dogs on snowy days? Let’s discuss.

　　1. Safety is the top priority when walking dogs in the snow. As an owner, you must have safety awareness and take enough safety measures before taking your pet out.

　　2. It’s very cold on snowy days, so it’s best to put your dog in warm clothes and anti-slip shoes before going out. Then fasten the dog collar or harness.

　　3. When walking in the snow, feed your dog food that provides more calories beforehand; otherwise, after exercise, they will have little energy and easily catch a cold.

　　4. When walking in the snow, it’s best to stick to familiar paths. Avoid places where the snow is deep and the ground is unclear because heavy snow may cover dangerous items that you cannot see under the snow.

　　Editor’s Tip: If possible, avoid bringing your dog outside on snowy days because it is quite cold, and dogs’ paws and sometimes fur get wet from playing in the snow. This can easily cause dogs to catch a cold. If you must take your dog out on snowy days, try to keep the outing short and make sure to do a good job protecting against the cold.