Heading To The Hills This Winter? Training Your Dog For Snow, Cold, And New Terrain

(By Adnaan Khan)

Winter travel to the hills has become increasingly popular among pet parents in India, and for good reason. Many dogs thrive in colder climates far better than humans do. However, snow-covered regions, unfamiliar terrain and high-altitude environments demand careful preparation, not just enthusiasm. Dogs are thus required to be physically as well as mentally ready for the challenges that winter hill travel presents.

Understanding Cold And Breed Differences

India’s tropical climate means even the Himalayan cold can feel mild for many breeds. Dogs such as Labradors, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Huskies, Malinois, Rottweilers, and Indian Pariah dogs are biologically equipped to handle colder temperatures. Their double coats, fat distribution and metabolism make them naturally winter-resilient.

Nevertheless, not all dogs share the same tolerance. Smaller breeds, short-haired dogs along with flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Boxers, are more sensitive to cold and altitude changes. These dogs require extra protection, shorter exposure periods, and careful monitoring during hill travel.

Training For Terrain And Novelty

The biggest challenge during winter travel isn’t temperature alone. Instead, it’s the terrain and novelty. Snow, ice, gravel paths, forest trails plus slopes introduce unfamiliar sensory input. Dogs unaccustomed to these surfaces may panic, pull excessively, freeze or refuse to move.

Consequently, structured training becomes critical. Leading dog training and behaviour organisations in India often follow methods that correct unsafe behaviour, redirect the dog into controlled exploration, and praise confident responses. Gradual exposure to novel surfaces such as wet tiles, sand, slopes and uneven ground helps dogs walk calmly on a leash without pulling. Reliable recall and leash manners are non-negotiable in mountain regions, where visibility, wildlife, and terrain hazards are more prevalent.

Tools For A Successful Hill Trip

Crate training is an underrated yet important tool for winter travel. A crate offers a familiar, safe and temperature-stable space during long drives, hotel stays, altitude changes plus rest periods. Crate-trained dogs adjust faster, sleep better, and experience significantly less travel anxiety, making the crate their anchor in an ever-changing environment.

Additionally, pet parents should avoid common mistakes. Some of these include over-clothing thick-coated dogs, forcing unconditioned dogs on long treks, or assuming enthusiasm equals readiness. Also, sweaters are best reserved for short-haired, senior, sick or extremely small dogs.

All in all, with the right preparation, gradual exposure, structured training, crate discipline as well as breed-specific awareness, hill travel can be an enriching experience. Dogs not only survive the cold and terrain but thrive, gaining stamina, confidence, mental stimulation, and strengthened bonds with their humans.

Adnaan Khan is the Founder of K9 School