Daily walks for your dog are necessary, but you can only sometimes count on the weather to cooperate. One of dog owners' most frequent questions when taking their dogs for walks is, ‘Should I walk my dog in the rain?’
Another question is if you should skip your dog's usual walk and let it out for a short while so it can take care of its biological needs instead of walking your dog in the rain. Almost every veterinarian will agree that taking your dog for a walk in the rain is entirely safe if certain precautions are taken. Sometimes there is no other way for your dog to relieve itself.
Most dogs do not enjoy walking in the rain, especially when it rains heavily. Most people will not find it appealing either. Some dogs enjoy the rain, especially retrievers and other water-loving breeds, but most dogs prefer to stay inside and forego their walk. Making your dog as comfortable as you can is important if you must or want to walk your dog in the rain.
Why Some Dogs Don't Like the Rain
A lot of dogs are afraid of thunderstorms. Dogs are very wise, and they frequently can predict impending nasty weather. Your dog might become tense, hide, or even start biting things.
If you suspect your dog is scared of the rain, avoid forcing them outside to make them "face their fear." And punishment is never a good idea either. The best action is always to call your veterinarian if it gets really bad. They can suggest excellent methods to help your dog behave better so that it will feel more at ease when a storm is coming.
Dogs may not like bad weather because it can amplify the sound of rain, another factor. It is well known that dogs have extremely sensitive hearing.
Because rain can be so loud, they might not appreciate it as much as we do. In this situation, try to keep your dog amused, teach them some tricks, or give them a warm hug to help them feel secure and at ease.
Tips for walking dogs in the rain
1. Should I walk my dog in the rain? First Tip: Cover the paws
A dog with wet paws is more likely to get sick from being wet and slip on the wet ground. Rain boots or premium paw wax are the best protection for dogs walking in the rain.
Many dogs require some practice in the house. If that does not work, try applying wax to their paws while sleeping or giving them treats to keep them calm. Give the paws a thorough wipe-down after the walk, especially if your dog enjoys splashing in puddles.
2. Should I walk my dog in the rain? Second Tip: Wear Bright Clothes
This is one of the most important things to remember when walking your dog in the rain. During the monsoon, the skies darken significantly, so wear brighter clothes. Dogs walking in the rain must be protected with brightly coloured dog raincoats or umbrellas with reflective slips.
3. Should I walk my dog in the rain? Third Tip: Keep Routines Flexible
Chaos and traffic jams are common during the monsoon. Consider taking quieter routes or waiting until after it has rained before leaving. Avoid crowded areas because they make it easier to get allergies and infections because of the crowds and humidity.
Alternatively, you could go for a few quick walks throughout the day. When walking your dog in the rain, these minor adjustments are necessary.
4. Should I walk my dog in the rain? Fourth Tip: Allow your dog to adjust
Some dogs, such as Labradors, are more comfortable in water than others. But even the most wary dogs can be persuaded to go on rainy-day walks. Remember that a dog may cower in fear in the presence of lightning, thunder, wind, and muddy water puddles.
Use a reward-based strategy to encourage them to leave the house voluntarily. To get your dog out for a walk in the rain, you may want to use treats as a lure to get them to the door, encourage them, and generally ignore the thunder. Be patient and let your dog take their time.
5. Should I walk my dog in the rain? Fifth Tip: Have a cleanup plan ready
In addition to causing a mess in the home, dirty paws can risk your dog's health. If there is too much dirt, rinse your pet in the shower after gently wiping their fur and paws with a wet cloth. Dry them thoroughly with a towel or hairdryer right after.
Seasonal allergies may be the cause of any symptoms of vomiting or changes in appetite. Schedule an online consultation with a veterinarian to receive prescriptions and practical advice for walking dogs in the rain.
Can Being in the Rain Make a Dog Sick?
Yes, your dog can become ill from the rain, depending on where you live. Biological and chemical dangers that can harm or even kill your dog can be found in the water that collects in puddles on the ground.
What to Do If Your Dog Refuses to Go Outside in the Rain
If you have ever been caught in a downpour, you know how uncomfortable sitting in wet clothes can be. The same applies to your dog. They dislike getting wet and sitting around with wet fur. So what should you do then if your dogs have to use the restroom outside during the rain?
1. Take Your Umbrella and Leash With You
This is, without a doubt, the simplest method for your dog to relieve itself in the rain. When it is time to go potty, leave your dog and head outside into the yard with your umbrella. Small dogs can be picked up and put on the grass to relieve themselves. For larger dogs, gather a variety of delectable treats and entice them outside. Wait patiently while keeping your dog and yourself covered with an umbrella once you are on the grass.
90% of dogs will typically go potty using this method. They merely wish to complete the task at hand and return inside. As your dog potties, slowly praise them for doing a good job and reward them with a treat once inside. You can reward them when finished, but most dogs would rather go inside than chew on a treat on wet grass. Your dog will learn to quickly go potty outside before sprinting for the door after a few rainy-day practice sessions.
For the other ten percent of dogs, hold up one foot and remain motionless for ten minutes outside as they stare up at you with beseeching eyes. You and your dog are protected from the rain by remaining still and using the umbrella.
Furthermore, it stops your dog from dragging you toward the backdoor. If your dog has yet to use the restroom after ten minutes, you may need to devise another strategy.
2. Make a Covered Potty Area
Some of us cannot or will not stand outside with our dogs in a drenching downpour. And it is acceptable. Instead, try taking your dog out to potty in a covered area, inside or outside.
Set up several potty pads under your covered backyard deck if your older dogs have to go potty in the pouring rain. If your deck needs to be covered, try draping a tarp over the corner of your house. This keeps your dogs from getting soaked. Put potty pads in the laundry room or bathroom for smaller dogs on rainy days.
3. After walking outside, dry your dog.
After your dog goes potty outside, make sure they are completely dry. Keep large towels next to your backdoor. Dry your dog's body, and do not forget to wipe their wet feet and tail. You can quickly blow-dry your dogs on chilly, rainy days because it dries their coat and makes them feel warm immediately.
4. Use rain boots
Only a few people believe dog raincoats make a difference, particularly if their dogs have never worn sweaters or other clothing. But booties are useful. Waterproof Booties with Velcro will prevent your dog's feet from coming into contact with muddy, wet grass. Putting rain booties on their feet makes all the difference for some dogs. After it rains, they will go potty outside. It’s worth a try.
5. Make a Plan
Keep an eye on the forecast and let your dog out just before it rains so they can use the restroom. If it is pouring outside, wait a few minutes for the rain to stop before letting your dog out to relieve itself. Being outside in raging rainstorms is not fun. Daily walks should also be postponed or rescheduled if possible. Remember that while you might enjoy walking in the rain, your dog does not.
Keep potty breaks to a minimum. Bring your dog inside to dry off if thunder and lightning start to rumble.
6. Use Potty Pads
It is strongly advised to install small dog potty pads inside your home or take your leashed larger dog outside to a covered potty area if your dog is afraid of thunderstorms. Thunder-phobic dogs are more terrified of thunder, lightning, and changes in barometric pressure than the rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I protect my dog from getting wet and cold during a rainy walk?
You must ensure your dog is dressed correctly if it is cold and raining, so they will stay warm and dry. Your dog can benefit from a dog raincoat and booties to fend off the chilly and wet weather. Use doggie training treats to entice them if they are reluctant to wear them.
Are there any health concerns I should know when walking my dog in the rain?
You have to be careful about water poisoning. Other animals, or at least their waste products like urine and faeces, are the most frequent causes of rainwater poisoning because they contain the bacteria that cause Leptospirosis and the protozoan Giardia. Rainwater helps spread them out over a wider area and gathers them in puddles. Your dog can ingest them when they drink the water or lick themselves clean after your walk, at which point they can make your dog ill.
Should I walk my dog in the rain to prevent behavioural issues related to pent-up energy?
You should walk your dog in the rain because it is enjoyable and teaches young dogs, who are still figuring out their environment, that the rain (and any ensuing thunder, wind, and lightning) is not scary. A walk in the rain can be different and exciting for even adult and senior dogs, allowing them to use their senses in a new way.
Should I avoid certain areas, like puddles or flooded paths, while walking my dog in the rain?
Dogs may find puddles tempting, but they can also be harmful. Puddles may contain hazardous substances for your dog, such as sharp objects, broken glass, or chemicals. Stagnant water may contain bacteria and parasites that can sicken your dog. Whenever you take your dog for a walk in the rain, keep them on a leash and away from puddles. You can even teach them to avoid unpleasant puddles by bringing along some delectable dog treats!
What are some fun indoor activities to do with my dog if I decide not to walk them in the rain?
Even on a bad day, there are things to look forward to. It is the ideal opportunity to teach your dog new tricks, try out a brand new game, or catch up on your grooming regimen to spend a rainy day indoors together.
Conclusion
Whether or not to walk your dog in the rain is a personal choice, but if done correctly and with the appropriate gear, it can be fun and easy for both of you. Your dog might even appreciate an outing in the rain as much as it does on a dry day.
Your dog enjoys spending time with you, but it might take some practice to make them feel secure enough to walk in rough weather. Start slowly and get them some comfortable rain gear. So, taking a dog for a walk in the rain can be just as simple as in nicer weather.
Sources
- Dog’s health - https://www.dogshealth.com/should-a-dog-be-walked-in-the-rain/
- Mad paws blog - https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/why-dogs-dont-like-rain/
- Wagr - https://www.wagr.ai/blogs/dog-training-behaviour/5-important-tips-how-to-walk-your-dog-in-the-rain
- Dog Training Nation - https://www.dogtrainingnation.com/how-to-train-a-dog/dogs-refuse-go-outside-rains/
- Wag Walking - https://wagwalking.com/wellness/can-dogs-get-sick-from-the-rain
- Dogseechew - https://www.dogseechew.in/blog/7-things-you-should-consider-before-walking-your-dogs-in-rain
- Not A Bully - https://notabully.org/why-its-okay-to-walk-your-dog-in-the-rain-how-to-do-it/
- Four Paws - https://www.fourpaws.com/pets-101/family-matters/indoor-dog-games-and-activities
- Hill’s Pet - https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/play-exercise/walking-dog-in-rain?lightboxfired=true#
