Just like humans, dogs also love adventure. We know how to stay warm in winters. But these furry friends need someone to take care of them. They enjoy outings even in the winter season, but extreme cold can make them sick.
Therefore, being responsible dog owners, it is our responsibility to keep them warm. Before winter starts, let’s have a look at some key tips for dog protection. In this way, our dogs can stay safe besides enjoying the chilly winters.
1. Create a Warm House
The routine bedding may not be suitable if there is extreme cold in your area. See if there is a rainy season and water may leak from the roof. In this case, cover the roof so that the dog can stay dry for the whole night.
Furthermore, create a thick layer of soil below the bed. It will create distance from the bed to the floor. Since the floor is always cold in winters, direct contact with the bed can make the dog sick.
Also, keep checking the dog every night. If the cold is unbearable, you can buy heated beds too. Some people also use small heaters inside dogs’ houses. But it comes with a big risk of suffocation and electric current if the dog is left alone.
2. Take Care of Hygiene
Take care of the following things for good hygiene:
- Bathing – Bathing is a routine process, and one should not stop it because of winters. A regular bath is good for the overall health of our dogs. Just make your room warm by switching on the heating system, turning on warm water, and giving a bath.
- Winter Care Products – Need to see which shampoo and conditioner will suit the dog’s skin. If the skin becomes dry in winters, try to buy a moisturizing soap. Likewise, some dogs even shed in winter. Good dog shampoo for shedding can resolve the issue.
- Hair Trimming – Some people are against hair trimming in winters. The concept is wrong as the dog may feel extremely cold due to wet hair. Therefore, try to follow the same grooming guidelines as in other seasons. You may consider a long trim, but trimming is important.
3. Purchase Routine Medications in Advance
Some viral illnesses can affect the dog too. Try to take him for a regular vet visit. Also, make sure that the dog is fully vaccinated. Medications are another important part of the winter’s care plan. Try to keep all important medicines at home. Flu and other viruses are common. If you have the medicines already at home, you won’t panic at the last moment.
4. Buy Warm Clothing
Dogs also feel cold and require warm clothing to stay safe during winters. However, the ones with heavy fur may not require any extra layer of clothing. These thick fur breeds include Siberian Husky, Mastiffs, Alaskan, and others.
You can buy Velcro jackets as they easily slip. Also, see if the jacket has a fleece lining. This lining is warm and keeps the dog comfortable. Try to buy some booties too so that the furry friend can stay warm.
In areas that are famous for being extremely cold, frostbite is common. It happens when the skin tissues get damaged due to cold weather. Signs of this injury include pain, discoloration of the skin, brittleness, etc.
To avoid this, make sure that your dog wears a suitable jacket. Remember, pups are more likely to get sick during winters compared with older dogs.
5. Give Healthy Treats & Meals
Even in winters, some dogs love the outdoors. Therefore, they require more energy and need good nutrition to stay fit. We should consult with a vet before the winter season begins.
However, if the dog remains inside the house during winters, there is no need for some extra calories. Otherwise, it will result in the animal becoming overweight.
Try to give home-cooked food like soups, oatmeal, and meat in winter. Chick soup is healthy and will help in keeping the dog warm. Likewise, oatmeal is highly nutritious and lets the dog stay energetic for a long.
In addition, give your dog healthy treats. Fruits, vegetables, and even cookies! Can dogs eat peanut butter cookies? Absolutely! Low-calorie homemade cookies are better for your dog than store brought biscuits.
Remember, the dog might suddenly refuse to eat in winter. Do not worry. Climate change affects the dog’s mood, and it will take some time to adjust. Keep showing love, and the dog will feel comfortable in no time.
Wrapping It Up
All in all, we can take multiple steps to keep our kennel friends warm and safe in winter. From fleece clothing and booties to heated beds, we need to buy all essential winter items.
Moreover, nutritional balance is also necessary. Try to give the best diet to your dogs. Warm soups are a perfect winter treat. Lastly, keep an eye on the dog and stay aware of any warning signs. Winter diseases can occur anytime and may make your dog sick.
Do not forget to take your dog’s vet appointment for the winter season.