Winter trails can be breathtaking — quiet forests, sparkling snow, frozen waterfalls.
But while we bundle up in jackets, boots, and layers… our dogs feel the cold much faster than we think.

Dogs don’t always show discomfort clearly, and many will keep hiking just to stay with us.
That’s why it’s your job to spot the early signs — before cold turns into danger.

Here are 5 clear signals your dog may be getting too cold, plus exactly what to do on the trail to keep them safe. 🐾❄️

1️⃣ Shivering or Trembling

Just like humans, shivering is the first sign of cold stress.

Even mild shivering means your dog is struggling to maintain body temperature.
Small breeds, short-haired dogs, seniors, and puppies are especially vulnerable.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, cold conditions can cause rapid heat loss in dogs, especially when their fur becomes wet or wind is strong (AVMA Cold Weather Safety).

What to do:

• Put on a jacket or extra layer immediately
• Start moving at a steady pace
• If shivering continues → end the hike

2️⃣ Holding Up a Paw or Refusing To Walk

Cold ground, ice melt chemicals, snow, or packed ice can quickly numb paw pads.
If your dog lifts one paw, alternates paws, or stops walking, they’re telling you they’re freezing.

The AKC warns that ice, snow, and salt can cause pain, cracks, and even chemical burns on paws (AKC Winter Paw Care).

What to do:

• Warm paws with your hands or a jacket
• Wipe off any salt or ice
• Apply paw balm if needed
• Shorten the hike

3️⃣ Curling Up, Tucking the Tail, or Hunching

When dogs feel cold, they instinctively try to conserve heat by shrinking their body shape.

Common signs:

• Tail tightly tucked
• Back curved
• Body close to the ground
• Seeking shelter behind you

These are early indicators of discomfort — not stubbornness.

What to do:

• Add a jacket if you have one
• Move into a less windy area
• Keep walking to generate warmth

4️⃣ Slowing Down or Losing Focus

Cold impacts both the body and mind.
If your dog suddenly becomes slow, distracted, or “foggy,” it may be the beginning of hypothermia.

Cornell University explains that hypothermia can impair thinking, coordination, and responsiveness in dogs (Cornell Vet – Cold Weather Care).

What to do:

• Increase your pace
• Offer a quick snack (calories = heat!)
• Keep your dog close
• Prepare to return to the car

5️⃣ Ice or Snow Stuck on Fur, Whiskers, or Paws

Snowballs forming between the toes, ice clinging to fur, or frozen whiskers can rapidly cool a dog’s body temperature.

This is especially common for:

• Dogs with long fur
• Dogs who kick up snow while running
• Dogs who walk through deep drifts

What to do:

• Stop and gently break off snowballs
• Use your gloves to warm the paws
• Keep sessions short in powdery snow

🔥 What To Do If Your Dog Is Too Cold (Trail Checklist)

If you notice ANY of the above signs:

Immediate actions:

✔ Put on a coat or extra layer
✔ Keep moving to generate body heat
✔ Remove ice or snow from paws
✔ Offer a treat for energy
✔ Find shelter from wind

If signs get worse:

✔ Wrap your dog in your jacket
✔ Carry them if necessary
✔ End the hike immediately

Never ignore early warnings — hypothermia progresses quickly in dogs.

🐾 Final Thoughts

Dogs love winter trails — the smells, the snow, the freedom.
But cold weather requires awareness, preparation, and quick action.

Watch their body language, know the signs, and always be ready to adjust your plans.

A warm dog is a happy dog — and a happy dog makes every winter adventure better. ❄️❤️

👉 Want more winter trail guides and safety tips?
Scroll to the bottom and subscribe to the Barking Hiker Pack!