Is It Safe for Dogs to Eat Snow?
It's not just us humans who enjoy the winter snow. Many four-legged friends are also thrilled: The soft snow is excellent to romp around in, and most dogs even enjoy eating it. Why this isn't entirely safe.
When a thick blanket of snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, it's not just us humans who are lured outside. Many dogs also take great delight in discovering the new playground on their doorstep, romping around in it, and sometimes even playing in it. These curious four-legged friends will eat anything they see edible. Soft, glittering snowflakes quickly become a snack.
What few people know: Eating snow is by no means healthy for dogs. While not every animal reacts the same way to snow in its stomach—some have no problems at all—ingesting too much snow can quickly lead to stomach upsets in sensitive dogs,
Hidden dangers: dirt, road salt and grit
Snow is often not, as many might initially think, frozen water. Dirt, road salt, or grit are usually mixed in with it – a chemical cocktail that is as invisible as it is unhealthy. Toxic road salt, in particular, puts a strain on the stomach lining. Salt draws water from the body, so even two grams per kilogram of body weight can be toxic to a dog. Added chemicals, such as antifreeze, may increase the risk of poisoning.
Too much snow can cause dogs to develop snow gastritis
If a dog ingests excessive amounts of snow, it can also develop what's known as snow gastritis. Snow and ice irritate the stomach lining and can lead to serious illness. The first signs of snow gastritis include loud gurgling in the stomach, increased salivation, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite.
Additional symptoms include vomiting or diarrhoea. In such cases, dog owners should take their four-legged friend to the veterinarian if symptoms persist for an extended period. The good news is that snow gastritis can be easily treated with appropriate medication and a bland diet.
Through the snow, but stay healthy! Tips for the winter season
To avoid an upset stomach after a long day in the snow with your dog, prevention is the best way:
- Before going for a walk, offer your dog plenty of fresh water so they don't start the winter walk thirsty and choose snow as a source of water. If possible, bring extra water.
- The Federal Chamber of Veterinarians also advises that snowball throwing should be avoided with sensitive dogs, as this game also encourages them to eat snow.
- Distraction with other toys is a good way to prevent a dog from eating snow. A ball or a tyre is an excellent option for playing in the snow.
- After a walk, paw care is critical in winter: thoroughly clean the paws with lukewarm water, especially removing any salt residue or grit. Otherwise, dogs will start licking their paws intensively at home.
- Especially with long-haired dogs that have heavy interdigital growth, it's essential to remove small clumps of ice that form and get caught between the toes. Otherwise, they can cause skin injuries.
- And last but not least, behaviour is also a matter of training. If your dog doesn't eat snow while out and about and responds obediently to commands like "No!" or "Ugh!", owners should definitely reward them!