As winter approaches and days shorten, Shih Tzu owners will soon be noticing a chill in the air as they're walking their fur-covered friends. Fortunately, Shih Tzus don't need a huge amount of outdoor exercise, but there are still some important precautions that owners should take in the fall and winter months.

For owners, depending on where you live, consider the safety of your neighborhood or city. If you normally walk your dog alone, and especially if you're female, you may want to pair up with a family member or friend when walking your dog. If you are walking alone, try to stay in well-lit areas where other people likely to be around. Always carry a cell phone for emergencies and, if possible, tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back from your walk.

Keep your dog on a leash if you're walking in the dark. You definitely don't want your pup running off where you can't see him, and this will also help protect against unexpected vehicles that could pose a danger to your pet. Reflective clothing is also recommended – for both dogs and owners. This will ensure that you and your dog are visible to any passing drivers, cyclists or even other pedestrians. There are many products designed for just this purpose, including reflective leads, collars, and jackets. These are definitely worth the investment. It's also useful to carry a small torch if you don't already have this feature on your cell phone.

Shih Tzus are small dogs and, while they are pretty sturdy, if you live in a very cold climate, you may wish to consider investing in a warm coat for your dog. Many of the reflective dog coat options are padded or lined with faux fur, and it's even possible to get tiny snow boots to cover the pads of your dog's paws if you need them.

Of course, all of this depends on the winter climate where you live, so some of these options may not be necessary. However, even if you don't need to worry about snow boots for your Shih Tzu, it's still well worth thinking about the safety issues that could affect you when you're walking your dog at night. You owe it to yourself and to your pup to ensure that you make your walks together as safe as possible, and it's always better to be too prepared than not prepared enough. Your dog will be very grateful!

How to Keep Your Dog Safe While Walking at Night