Winter Holiday with Your Dog in South Tyrol Enjoy Unforgettable Days at Hotel Hirben Naturlaub
Snow-covered mountains, crisp winter air and relaxing hours in the sauna – South Tyrol in winter is a true paradise. And the best part: your dog is welcome to join you. A winter holiday with your dog in South Tyrol can become an unforgettable
experience when a few important aspects are considered to ensure your dog’s well- being and the enjoyment of the whole family. At Hotel Hirben Naturlaub, a dog-friendly hotel in South Tyrol, we know exactly how to make both humans and dogs happy. That’s why we would like to share some helpful tips for a relaxed and stress-free stay.
How quickly does your dog get cold – and how can you protect them?
A dog’s tolerance to cold largely depends on its coat and undercoat. Dogs with thick fur cope better with winter temperatures, while short-haired breeds such as Dalmatians or Ridgebacks tend to feel the cold more quickly. Keeping your dog moving during winter walks helps maintain body heat. Sensitive areas like ears and paws can be protected with simple measures: a small amount of petroleum jelly on the ears and a well-fitting, breathable dog coat provide warmth while allowing full freedom of movement to play and explore the winter landscape.
How can you tell if your dog is cold?
Dogs show clear signs when they are cold. Shivering, a tense posture, a tucked tail or frequently lifting their paws are strong indicators that it’s time to head indoors. Restlessness or constant pacing can also be warning signs. Once back inside, the dog should be thoroughly dried to ensure comfort and warmth.
Road salt – a common problem for dog paws
Road salt can irritate a dog’s paw pads during winter. Applying a protective paw balm or petroleum jelly before walks helps prevent irritation. After returning, paws should be briefly rinsed with lukewarm water and dried. Long hair between the toes should also be trimmed carefully to prevent snow and salt from sticking. Whenever possible, choose paths treated with sand or grit instead of salt.
Never leave dogs in the car
Dogs should never be left unattended in a car, neither in summer nor in winter. Once the heating is turned off, the temperature inside the vehicle drops quickly, posing a serious risk of hypothermia.
Dogs should not eat snow
Care should also be taken to prevent dogs from eating too much snow, as this can cause stomach problems, especially if the snow is contaminated.
Why Hotel Hirben Naturlaub is perfect for dog owners
Surrounded by the winter scenery of the South Tyrolean mountains, Hotel Hirben Naturlaub is an exceptionally dog-friendly hotel. Here, dogs and their owners can enjoy:
- Cozy holiday apartments with a private, fenced garden
- Dog-friendly services, including water stations and small surprises
- A dedicated dining room where dogs are welcome to join their owners for breakfast and dinner
- Direct access to winter hiking trails and snowshoe routes
- Peace, space and safety for relaxed walks in the snow
- Guided winter or snowshoe hikes for two- and four-legged guests
At our hotel, we place great importance on making sure your dog feels just as comfortable as you do.