How To Care For Dogs During Winter Weather

It’s getting colder and colder as the days go by. If you’re in an area that is prone to seeing snowfall during the winter, know that your dog may be experiencing the brutalizing chills and effects the winter can bring. Just as you would take measures to keep warm yourself or for any others, you should put a process in place to care for your dog as well. 

There’s more to it though. It’s not just maintaining warmth you should keep in mind, but when the winter weather rolls around, more factors come into play that can potentially be a risk to your dog’s health. 

So here are some tips on caring for your dogs during the winter!

TIPS FOR WINTER CARE

Keep Paw Fuzz To a Minimum

When snow accumulates on the ground, it’s hard to avoid your dog running through the snow in all their excitement especially when you’re going out on walks. If the fur between their paw pads are long, trim them. If they remain lengthy in the snow, the fur will accumulate snow and turn into ice balls which can be an uncomfortable experience.

Layer Up

Depending on the breed of your dog, they may require more insulation during the cold temperatures. There are many sources online for winter coats and vests that are made for dogs. Have your dog wear them while they’re outside or on walks.

Watch Out For Antifreeze & Rock Salt

You don’t usually see heaps of antifreeze and rock salt out and about but even the most minimal amounts can have negative effects on your dog. Some effects can be fatal and cause kidney failure. Every time you go for a walk, make sure you watch out for antifreeze and clean their paws whenever you come home.

Minimize Time Outdoors

It helps to bring your dog outside in increments to get used to the weather change, but to stay warm and cozy, stay in! Make sure your dog has a dog bed and blankets especially if you have hardwood floors. Keep the thermostat at a reasonably warm temperature so your dog is comfortable during the winter! Pro-tip: If your dog is getting on in their years, know that the older dogs get, the more challenging it is for their bodies to regulate their temperature. So the winter weather might be harsher on them than you realize and time inside is of the utmost importance! Don’t venture outside unless it calls for it.

Keep Them Dry

If it’s snowing during your walks, that’s a wet coat waiting to happen! Follow the previous tip of bundling up with protective, warm clothes and when you get home, dry them with a towel. 

We hope you have a blast this holiday season with your beloved fur babies! This is just a sampling of tips we offer at Pug Life Harness. You can find more tips and tricks and how-tos for caring for your dog on our blog in this section. Feel free to leave a comment with tips you’re looking for!