The Ultimate Guide to Countryside Adventures with Your Dog This Winter

For countryside dog owners like us, winter isn’t about avoiding walks; it’s about embracing the crisp air, frosty fields, and muddy lanes. Whether you’re taking your Labrador for a romp through the woods or leading a Spaniel (like our Roma) during shooting season, winter brings its own set of joys and challenges.

1. Gear Up for the Season
A proper waterproof dog coat is essential for breeds with shorter fur or those working outdoors for extended periods. Dogs accompanying you during shooting sessions or long walks may benefit from reflective coats for darker mornings or evenings. Roma (pictured) has occasionally been mistaken for a fox....extremely concerning.

2. Keep Hydration Simple
Winter adventures often mean long hours outdoors. A portable water bowl is a countryside essential for rehydrating your dog after a run through frosty fields or hills as most ponds and puddles will likely be frozen.

3. Be Shooting-Ready
For those working with gundogs or attending shoots, make sure your dog is trained for whistle recall and steady to game. Connect with local trainers specialising in gundog training — Let us know where you are and what your local shoot is. We often travel to shoots all over the UK where we are invited to demonstrate or simply take part.

We have our dogs trained at Simbos near Sudbury and wouldn't go anywhere else - https://www.simbosgundogs.co.uk/

Consider a good quality lanyard for your whistle - Click HERE to see our handmade lanyards

4. Protect Those Paws
Most of your dogs will likely have a season or 2 of adapting already under the belt however we have to respect the impact from frozen ground, gravel tracks, or mud-filled woods and the toll on your dog’s paws. A good paw balm can protect against cracking and irritation.

5. Finish with a Washdown
Country dogs bring country dirt home! Keep a towel or portable pet wash system at the ready to save your home from muddy paw prints.

Ready to gear up for winter? Explore our countryside dog essentials HERE and prepare for a season of safe and stylish adventures.