'I'm a dog expert - there is 1 deadly threat you need to look out for this winter'

As winter approaches, it's crucial to make sure your dog stays safe in colder weather and there's one thing you need to look out for, an expert has warned. Across the UK, over 36% of households own at least one dog, according to a survey by Kantar carried out in 2024 on 8,956 respondents. However, not everyone may be aware of how to protect their furry friends in the colder months.

Deadly autumn and winter hazards are costing owners over £2,000 in emergency vet bills, reports The Mirror. One of which is antifreeze, an item commonly used in winter but it could be a deadly threat to your pet, warns Lorna Winter, Head of Training and Co-Founder of Zigzag, a puppy training app. Lorna says antifreeze can be poisonous for dogs and has shared advice on how to keep your dog safe. But the expert says this is not the only danger to look out for this winter as she shared some other crucial things to stay vigilant for.

Lorna told the Daily Express: "As the nights get colder, antifreeze and rock salt will start becoming more common.

"Antifreeze is deadly even in tiny amounts, and salt can irritate your dog's paws if licked off, so try to keep your dog on the lead when you're passing by main roads in freezing weather."

But this is not the only risk Lorna says you should look out for.

The expert also adds: "Ticks thrive in long grass and woodland at this time of year, and grass seeds can easily burrow into your dog's paws and ears.

"After each walk, check your dog's paws, eyes, and fur and keep up with flea and tick treatments."

She adds that you should also make sure to watch out for dangerous autumn toxins which could cause harm to your dog.

Autumn walks can have hidden dangers, the expert warns. While conkers, acorns and oak leaves may look harmless, they contain toxins that can make a dog very ill, sometimes even causing blockages.

Lorna says: "Yew berries and many wild mushrooms are also poisonous. Even piles of damp leaves or puddles can harbour mould, bacteria or parasites like lungworm from slugs and snails.

2When walking through areas where you think your dog may encounter these hazards, be sure to keep them on a lead."

If you're taking your dog outdoors this autumn, don't forget to follow Lorna's tips to make sure your pup stays safe.