Walking the Dog Day: Walking the Dog Day Prep for a Fun Celebratory Walk

February 22 is widely known as National Walk Your Dog Day, and it’s a great excuse for pet parents to get outside—even if winter means rain, snow, and muddy sidewalks. This “Walking the Pet Day” guide shows how to plan a safe outing for walking dogs and (for the right kitty) cats, too.

The goal isn’t a marathon. It’s a safe, happy walk with a bit of mental stimulation—plus a warm, easy cleanup.

Before You Go: Winter Walk Safety Checklist

• Go when it’s brighter and warmer. Midday is often best.
• Pick safer routes. Avoid black ice, deep slush, and fast roads.
• Skip risky spots. If the dog park is icy, crowded, or muddy, choose a calmer loop.
• Watch the salt. Sidewalk salt and ice melt can irritate paws.
• Keep the pace easy. A leisurely stroll is safer than rushing.
• Need backup? Trusted dog walkers can help maintain daily walking when the weather (or your schedule) is rough.

Gear Up: Cold, Wet, and Low-Light Essentials

Paw Protection (salt + snow + ice)

HardyPaw picks:

• Boot Barrier: Pawz Rubber Dog Boots
• Pre-Walk Balm: Natural Dog Company Paw-Tection Stick
• After-Walk Repair: Skout's Honor Probiotic Pet Balm

Quick tip: Try boots inside first, then do a short outdoor loop to build comfort.

Visibility + Control

HardyPaw picks:

• Reflective Leash: Wigzi Gel Handle Reflective Tape Retractable Dog Leash
• Reflective Harness: Ruffwear Hi & Light Lightweight Dog Harness

If it’s dark or foggy, keep the leash shorter near roads and driveways.

Warmth

HardyPaw pick:

• Fleece Layer: Pendleton Glacier National Park Fitted Fleece Vest

If your dog shivers, lifts paws, or wants to turn back, head home.

Make it Feel Like a Celebration (without a long walk)

Distance matters less than experience. Dogs love sniffing, so add simple “brain breaks”:

• Sniff Stops at safe, clean spots (avoid salted patches).
• “Find It” Treats in dry grass or leaves.
• 30-Second Training (sit, touch, leave it) every few minutes.

These tiny games boost mental stimulation and can support your dog’s behavior—and your mental health—especially during a long winter.

Post-Walk: The 2-Minute Clean-and-Check

1. Towel dry paws, belly, and legs.
2. Check between toes for grit, redness, or ice bits.
3. Wipe off salt to reduce licking later.
4. Moisturize if pads feel rough.

HardyPaw cleanup picks:

• Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Grooming Wipes (Fragrance-Free) for Dogs & Cats
• QuikClean Waterless Shampoo
• Earthbath Treatment Balm for Cracked Paws & Noses

Quick “Do This Today” Plan

To celebrate national walking the dog day, keep it simple:

• Gear up + paw protect
• 15–25 minutes with sniff breaks
• Wipe, dry, paw check
• Cozy cooldown indoors

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is Walking the Dog Day?

A: It’s commonly celebrated on February 22, and you’ll often see it called National Walk Your Dog Day.

Q: How long should a winter walk be?

A: Many pets do well with 15–30 minutes, but adjust for wind, age, coat, and how your pet behaves.

Q: Do dogs really need boots in winter?

A: Not always, but boots help a lot with salt, ice melt, and sharp ice crust—especially in cities.

Q: What’s the best way to protect paws from salt and snow?

A: Use boots or a paw balm before the walk, then wipe and dry paws after. Add paw butter if pads are dry.

Q: Is it safe to take my cat outside for a celebratory walk?

A: Only if your cat is calm and secure in a harness, or you use a carrier. Keep it quiet and short.

Q: Should we go to the dog park when it’s icy or slushy?

A: Only if surfaces are safe and visibility is good. If it’s slick or crowded, choose a safer route instead.