When the winter months arrive, whether your area experiences snow and subzero wind chills or slush and rain, there are a few things you should do to keep your dog healthy and warm.
Of course, certain dog breeds are more tolerant of the cold than others, but as the temperature decreases, so does your pup's tolerance for it. Here's all you need to know about keeping your dog warm, comfortable, and safe.
Do Dogs Get Cold When They're Outside?
Dogs, like their owners, can become chilled. Smaller dogs, as well as those with short coats, will be more sensitive to the cold than larger dogs or breeds with thick coats. Similarly, senior dogs are more susceptible to the effects of the cold than younger canines. However, keep in mind that your dog's ears, nose, tail, and paws are more exposed than the rest of their body, even if they have a thick coat.
What Temperature Is Too Cold for a Dog?
In general, your dog will be uncomfortable in temperatures below 32°F; however, particularly cold-averse dogs may become uncomfortable when the temperature drops below 45°F. Allowing your dog outside for long amounts of time (when the temperature hits this level is not recommended.
How to Keep Dogs Warm
During the cooler winter months, keep these tips in mind to ensure your dog's comfort and safety.
Provide a Warm, Cozy Sleeping Environment
During the winter, a nice bed and a big blanket should keep your dog toasty warm. Take a look at a self-warming pet mat, which preserves your dog's body heat, or a mat with a removable microwavable heating pad if your dog sleeps in a particularly drafty or chilly portion of the house.
Just keep in mind that your dog should be able to get out of the bed on his or her own, you shouldn't have to wrap them up each night!
Get a Jacket or Sweater for Your Dog
Naturally, animals with thick coats, such as huskies and malamutes, are better suited to cold conditions than breeds with little or no hair. Get your dog a doggie jacket or sweater to wear outside with you if you have a breed like greyhounds, miniature pinschers, Chihuahuas, or whippets.
Measure your dog's size around the neck, across the shoulders, and over the chest to guarantee a suitable fit. Look for styles that are snug but not too tight, and that don't have any unpleasant zippers or embellishments that could cause choking.
Understandably, not all dogs will tolerate wearing a sweater or jacket. Simply limit the amount of time they spend outside if they don't want to wear one.
Our newly released deluxe puffer coat is perfect to keep your pup warm. With a comfortable, customizable fit - and optional attachable leggings, this will keep your dog comfortable (and stylish).
Protect your dog's paws
In the winter, it's especially important to give special attention to your dog's paws. The naked paws of your dog can become frostbitten, and snow on the ground can hide harmful things that can hurt the paws.
Check your dog's feet for wounds or abrasions after they've been outside, and wipe away any frost or snow. Maintain your dog's paws by removing excess hair from between their toes if they are a long-haired breed. Consider equipping your dog with booties to protect their feet if they allow it.
Consult your veterinarian about a dog-safe moisturizer if you notice your dog's pads are breaking and drying up due to the cold weather. If you use a moisturizer designed for people on your dog's paws, you may end up hurting them rather than helping them.
Winter walks can feel stressful trying to protect your pets' paws. The good news? Walkee Paws can be used in all seasons.
Try Winter Accessories
Just like for humans, there is a multitude of pet products available to protect your pup in the winter. Hats, socks, scarves, are all accessories you can add to a coat and boots to further support your pet.
Liner Socks
Our liner socks are custom designed to fit comfortably underneath Walkee Paws outdoor leggings.
If temps are dropping, and you notice your dog lose excitement for daily walks, it may be time to add some extra warmth to their winter gear.
Make sure you test the fit of socks before any long walks, they should be snug to not slip, but not too snug to cause discomfort.
Pom Pom Hat
Our pom-pom hat is a cute accessory to add to your winter gear supply!
With functional ear slits and adjustable neck straps, the hat will stay on during any walk and keep your pet's ears warm.
The hat also features a water-resistant lining to keep your pup’s head dry
Not to mention it pairs perfectly with our winter coat for a fashionable outing.
Cold Weather Is Dangerous
If you live in a region where the winter weather is harsh, it's critical to keep your dog out of the elements for extended periods.
Pets left outside for too long may develop hypothermia and frostbite. Ears, paws, and tails are extra vulnerable to a cold injury. If you notice any pain or injured skin it is important to reach out to your vet ASAP.
Starting at 50 degrees Fahrenheit, pet parents should be cautious and observe any mood changes.
Pay attention to the signs such as:
- your pet dragging you home
- refusing to walk
- shaking
If you notice any of these, they're likely too chilly.
Hypothermia is scary - which is why preventative measures such as coats or boots should be used.