Dogs have a major disadvantage in snowstorms, especially smaller breeds. When snow is drifting and blowing, they would prefer to stay indoors. Who could blame them? After all, shorter canines have to drag their transmissions through the icy accumulation. Hopping does not work, and going inside is frowned upon by two-legged family members. Instead of forcing him out the door and hoping that he goes, use the following kind ways to get your dog to go outside in a snowstorm. He will feel much better about the icy cold situation, and your floors will be spared.
Use No-Slip Ice and Snow Carpets to Lead the Dog Out to the Lawn
Shoveling the steps is a commonsense solution when trying to get a dog to go outside in a snowstorm, but it not always good enough. Steps and walkways that have been deeply covered for long periods of time can be nearly impossible to completely clear. If you are afraid to use snow covered steps, your dog should not be scolded for coming back in without doing his business. Use no-slip ice and snow carpets to cover the steps and other snow-covered areas. They are made especially for temporarily covering snow and ice. Store the carpets indoors, and roll them out just before taking the dog outside. They will help to lessen his fear, and they will make it much safer for all concerned.
Apply Deicer that is Safe for a Dog’s Bare Paws
If you dog has been injured by deicing products, he will associate going outside in a snowstorm with excruciating pain. Retrain the dog by using the aforementioned no-slip snow and ice carpets, and switch to pet-safe deicer. It will not burn tender paws, and it will not harm the dog if ingested. If sore paw pads could have been a factor, in time he will no longer associate going out in a snowstorm with pain.
Kind Ways to Heal and Protect His Paws
Even when pet-safe deicer is used, it is important to protect a dog’s feet with a specially formulated paw balm. Just because the subject is an animal does not mean that it can tolerate ice and snow on bare paws. We would not want to go out without protecting our feet, especially in the snow. Not only will the balm help to heal cracks and uncomfortably dry skin, but it will also provide a layer of protection when the dog must go outside in a snowstorm.
Sources: Harsh Winters with a Shih-Tzu
http://wilton.patch.com/groups/around-town/p/ouch-that-burns-what-your-dog-would-say-when-he-burns-paws-on-deicer
