We select and review products independently. When you purchase through our links we may earn a commission. Learn more.
X

8 Must-Have Dog Accessories for Winter

Paw wax, a dog wearing boots, and pet-safe sidewalk salt.
Musher’s Secret/QUMY/Green Gobbler

Once the temperature starts to drop, it’s routine for us to pull out our stash of winterwear and dig the snow shovel out of the garage. But while we’re at it, let’s not forget our furry friends! Here’s some must-have gear to keep your dog safe and warm all winter.

Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax

For dogs who refuse to wear booties, Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax is a natural way to protect her paws from ice, gravel, and other painful elements. It’s made with natural waxes and oils that absorb quickly and won’t stain floors.

You just use a paper towel to apply it to your dog’s paws, or you can dip their feet right in the tub. Hunters, dog sled owners, and city folk alike all swear by this magical ointment.

Dog Boots

If your pup doesn’t mind wearing things on his paws, dog boots are a no-mess solution to winter protection. They protect your pupper’s feet from rough and cold terrain, just like our winter boots do for us.

These are waterproof and skid-resistant, with reflective straps to make night walks safer. They also have a wide opening, which makes slipping them on and off a cinch.

A Winter Jacket

Not all dogs are blessed with thick winter coats. For smaller breeds or those with short hair, a winter jacket adds an additional layer of warmth. This coat is reversible, and comes in a variety of colors so your pooch can stay warm in style.

She’ll also be visible during night walks thanks to the reflective piping along the back. The zippered opening allows the coat to be worn over a harness.

A Covered Dog Bed

Keep your pup extra cozy at night in this covered dog bed. You can choose either an orthopedic or memory foam base, based on your dog’s needs.

Each bed also includes a blanket you can attach to form a comfortable cover for your dog. The bed’s insulating properties will trap his body heat and keep him warm and toasty.

Pet Safe Ice Melt

Icy stairs and sidewalks pose a major safety hazard. Unfortunately, many ice melt products can be toxic to animals when ingested. You can keep your dog safe from any adverse effects with this pet-safe ice melt.

This brand uses magnesium chloride to melt ice in temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit. It also won’t cause any irritation on your dog’s paws or make her sick if ingested.

Potty Pads

Whether a violent storm has blown in or your dog just hates snow, you might find yourself stuck inside with a pet who has to go. Keeping a stack of potty pads on hand will protect your floors from accidents.

These are highly rated for their absorbent, quilted material and the plastic backing ensures nothing leaks through. You can get them unscented or lavender-scented.

Hartz Home Protection Unscented Odor Eliminating Gel Dog Pads - 50 Count

Perfect for when you're trapped inside and your dog has to go.

A Heated Water Bowl

Dogs who spend a lot of time outside need reliable access to water during the day. To ensure it doesn’t freeze in frigid temperatures, swap out their regular water bowl for this heated model.

It holds 96 ounces of water and features a steel-wrapped cord to protect the electronic elements from damage. You do have to plug it in to an electrical outlet, and it should, ideally, be sheltered from heavy snow and ice.

K&H Pet Products Thermal-Bowl Outdoor Heated Dog Bowl Blue 96 Ounces

Keeps your dog's outdoor water source from freezing.

Bully Sticks

More time indoors means figuring out new ways to keep your dog occupied. Bully sticks are long-lasting chews that are safer than rawhide and others on the market.

This brand uses 100% all-natural beef that’s high in protein and fully digestible. They also support dental health by scraping away plaque and tarter. Your dog will easily spend hours working on one of these.

Anne Taylor Anne Taylor
Anne Taylor is a writer with a BA in Journalism and a passion for storytelling. Her work has been published on a variety of websites including Mental Floss and Well + Good, and she recently published her first novel, What it Takes to Lose. When she's not writing, Anne loves to travel (19 countries and counting), spend time outside, and play with her dog, Pepper. Read Full Bio »
LifeSavvy is focused on one thing: making your life outside of work even better. Want to know more?