Brrr! It’s cold outside. When you bundle up to fight the chill, do the same for your dog. They need to be protected from the elements as well. Here are some winter care tips for your doggy friend.
Indoor dogs aren’t as much affected as their outdoor counterparts when it comes to sleeping arrangements. Indoor dogs are used to air conditioning in the summer and heat in the winter. Dogs that live outside have no way to keep warm other than the hair on their backs.
A well-insulated dog house is the primary protection for outdoor dogs. The dog house needs to be big enough to move around without producing a draft. Dogs can sleep on a bed of straw covered by a blanket. The doorway of the doghouse can be covered with a flexible plastic shield. This lets your dog see out without letting the wind inside.
Just for the winter, have an indoor dog house that you keep in the washroom or other separate area. A dog gate will keep him out of the rest of the house. This is an alternative that keeps your dog safe and gives you peace of mind.
Dogs still need to be walked in the wintertime. The icy cold ground can make dog feet sensitive. The soft skin of his foot pads can become cracked and dry. There are dog booties on the market that can be worn during those daily bathroom breaks to keep his foot pads warm and intact.
Watch your dog outside and in the garage. We usually keep things like antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, and motor oil stored in the garage or a shed. If a dog gets into any of these substances, they can be fatal.
On the outside, people put rock salt and other ice dissolving chemicals on the ground. Dogs may lick them or step on them. They can irritate the feet and make your dog sick to the stomach. Before letting your dog back in the house, thoroughly clean their coat and feet to remove anything he picked up from the ground.
Dogs need more calories in the winter. This is mostly for outdoor dogs since they need to keep warm and run around more. Have extra food on hand and fresh water every day. For your indoor dog, cut back on their food to avoid weight gain.
Just like people, dogs are prone to dry skin. Heaters can remove moisture from the indoor air. Keep their hair brushed and maintain a diet rich in protein and vitamins to combat dryness.
Doggy hats and sweaters keep your dog warm and they look good. His skin can retain moisture and heat when he goes for a walk or visiting with friends. And you thought that dog clothing was only for the high and mighty canine!
Dogs need to be cared for in winter. The cold affects them also. If you are cold outside, chances are your dog will feel the change in temperature, too.
Fran Gratton
