Winter Tips for Michigan Dog Owners: Making the Perfect Potty Path

Dog owners in Michigan have some interesting challenges especially in the middle of winter. While most cats lounge around all year in the climate-controlled environment of their... I mean 'your' house, dogs need to exercise, run around and play. Not to mention the whole 'bathroom' thing. So what can Michigan dog lovers do to take care of their furry friends, especially the smaller ones?

Make a Potty Path

Some dogs absolutely love playing in a fresh snow, while others don't like the fluff. Our Border Collie, Mickey, loves to run and roll in the snow while our Toy Poodle, Spencer is so small he can barely move through it.

Just like clearing a path for guests from the driveway to your front door, you should also clear a path in your yard for your dog as a designated potty path. Pet Palace reports that stepping in deep snow may cause their hesitation and cause their reluctance to do the deed.

But during extreme winter weather it may be a good idea to designate an indoor potty area with a puppy pad or something similar to prevent them from just going anywhere. Maybe consider potty-training?

Different Dogs Have Different Coats

While dogs come in all shapes and sizes their comfort levels can vary in cold weather. Thicker, double-layered coats allow dogs to tolerate colder conditions while dogs with thinner coats struggle more.

Size is also a factor when it comes to your dog's ability to retain heat. Smaller dogs have more surface area and a smaller core to keep them warm while larger dogs have a smaller surface area compared to their inner core. This is why larger dogs with double coats are much more likely to want to play outside and why smaller dogs just want to do their business and get back inside. During a Michigan winter it's always important to make sure your dogs are not left outside for too long.