It’s easy to assume that because your family dog has a fur coat, they don’t feel the winter chill like you do. However, that’s not true for most breeds. Dogs can get cold just like people do—they can even get hypothermia and frostbite. Discover what you need to know about cold weather and dogs.
Be Careful Walking in the Cold
Dogs need to take walks even when it’s cold, but there are certain precautions you should take. For example, never take a dog outside if it’s below freezing. Try to go during the warmest part of the day, so your furry friend is more comfortable. It’s also a good idea to put booties on your pet to protect their paws from frozen sidewalks.
Don’t Air Dry After Baths
It’s tempting to let your dog’s fur air dry after a bath, but this is a very dangerous practice during cold weather. Their fur coats are part of how they regulate temperature, and dogs can develop hypothermia if they get too cold. Always use a hair dryer on a low setting to gently dry your dog’s fur after a bath so they don’t become chilled. Alternatively, you could let a professional dog groomer handle things.
Moisturize Those Paws
Just like people can get dry and cracked skin during the winter, your dog may also damage their paws. Even if you have them wear booties outside, the lack of humidity can make your pup’s feet more tender and susceptible to dryness and irritation. Thankfully, special moisturisers are made just for doggie paws that you can use to keep their little feet happy all winter.
Remember That Dog Clothes Aren’t Just for Photos
Small, short-haired, and elderly dogs may have a harder time regulating their body temperatures during cold weather. You can help them stay cozy by dressing them in sweaters and jackets. Just be sure to take their gear off when you get inside so your dog’s coat doesn’t become irritated.
As a pet owner, there’s a lot you need to know about how cold weather affects dogs. We hope this guide makes caring for your family pet easier.
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