[rtraveler]

We have a six month old puppy and live in the New York area. We were thinking of setting up an indoor potty area for our puppy during the winter. We usually walk our dog on our lawn so he's used to real grass. We were thinking of artificial turf but he's not used to it. Has anyone done this? I'm looking for advice, thank you.

 

[Knute]

Just keep taking him outside.

Dogs are equipped with a fur coat and can handle colder temperatures.

Although, when the temperature dips below 0 F, you may need to skip the outside.

What breed is the pup? This can be a guideline. Example: A Chinese Crested probably should not go outside below 32 F. While a Husky would revel in sub-zero temps.

 

[parus]

I live in Alaska, a few degrees off the Arctic Circle. Normal winter temps are -20 F, regularly dropping down to -50 F or lower. My buddy's chihuahuas still go outside to eliminate. Your dog will be fine going outside in New York winter.

Depending on where you're walking him, you might want to get some booties to protect his feet from cold concrete and the chemicals people put down to get rid of ice.

 

[Knute]

Yes, the booties are also good for protection in the summer from hot pavement.

Dogs can burn their paws very quickly. Use the 5 second rule. If you can't hold your hand on the pavement for at least 5 seconds, then the pavement will burn the paws.