Caring For Your Dog In Winter

The weather is changing, and winter is at the doorstep. That is every pet parent’s cue to start preparing, as winter brings several challenges. But, no worries because added care will ensure your pet’s safety in the cold.

#1 Dog Coat

Dog breeds with thick fur can stay warm even in cold weather, unlike dogs with thin coat. However, even thick-coated dogs are prone to diseases due to cold. If you can’t handle the weather yourself, it is generally the same for your dog. Therefore, when you feel like putting on a jacket, do the same for your dog.

#2 Grooming

A clean and well-groomed coat can provide your dog with natural insulation; daily check your dog’s fur for dust, debris, snow buildup, and other foreign particles, and keep it perfectly tailored.

#3 Bath and Moisturizing

Bathing can dry out your dog’s skin which may cause discomfort. To counter this, you can use dog-friendly moisturizers and reduce baths. Another thing to keep in mind is to completely dry out Fido as moisture attracts diseases.

#4 Bedding

Place the dog’s bed away from the cold floor by raising it or keeping it on the carpeted floor. Use warm blankets and a comfy bed to create the perfect environment your dog would need on a cold day.

#5 Food

Winter brings changes in the activity level of dogs. Some get more excited and their activity level increases while others like to stay inside and are less active. To counter this drastic change, it’s essential that you decide your dog’s meals according to her activity level. If you aren’t able to decide on a proper diet, consult your vet.

#6 Hydration

Being hydrated is as necessary for your dog in winter as in summer. Keep a check on her water consumption, and remember that though dogs eat ice, it isn’t a substitute for fresh water.

#7 Block Heat Sources

Heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or wood-burning stoves attract dogs as they seem like nice warm places. However, these things can get hot and present burn risks for your pup. Therefore, you should keep your dog away from any heat source.

#8 Dealing With Snow

Dogs love to play with snow, but eventually, you have to clear it. If you use a shovel, don’t pile the snow near fences and boundaries as your dog can escape using the height advantage. If you use antifreeze, never let your dog near it as even a small amount of antifreeze is highly toxic and can be fatal.

#9 Paw Care

Cold weather can cause cracks in your dog’s paw pads. The best solution is to use dog booties to protect Fido’s paws. If that’s not possible, clean any ice buildup in the paws and trim the hair between his toes. After coming home from outside, rinse your dog’s paws as the winter salt and antifreeze used on sidewalks for removing snow can also burn his paws.

#10 Outdoor Time

Check the temperature before going out and prefer walking when the sun shines. If there is enough warmth in the sunlight, play with your dog outside so both of you can get vitamin D. If the temperature drops, never let your dog go alone outside as he is susceptible to frostbite. Go out with your dog and get back to home’s warmth when you feel cold.

#11 Frozen Surfaces

You never know if the ice beneath a frozen lake or river is strong enough. That’s why it’s important to keep your excited dog away from them to prevent any accidents.

#12 Leash

It’s advised to not let your dog roam leash-free in winter. However, if you give him some off-leash time, ensure that he clearly understands your recall commands.

#13 Indoor Activity

When it’s too cold to go outside, engage your dog inside so that she doesn’t grow lethargic and gets enough mental stimulation. Give her toys to play with and plan engaging games like treat hunt to provide enough indoor activity.

#14 About Cars

Never leave your dog alone in a car as it can get very cold. Either don’t take him with you during errands or take him wherever you go.

#15 Senior Dog Care

Senior dogs have issues like arthritis that can escalate in winter. Consider giving him joint supplements and talk with the vet about other steps you can take. Planning a winter trip and looking for sitters to take care of your doggo? Look no farther than Cuddlytails as our trained professionals are the best-in-industry.

Visit www.cuddlytails.com download our Android or iOS app for more information.

Thank you,
The Cuddlytails Team