Cold Weather Tips: How to Keep Your Dog Warm in the Winter

When temperatures decrease and severe weather presents itself, our pooches are less than pleased. The winter months can be quite difficult for our pups. Keeping your canine companion warm this season is vital not only our pet's well being, but also to perpetuating their health. Here are a ways tips to keep your furry friend from getting frosty paws this winter:

1. Research your dog’s breed and their susceptibility: There are some dog breeds that are more affected by cold weather than others, such as small dogs, hairless and short haired dogs, senior pets, and any dog that has had its fur shaved or clipped very short. Some breeds, such as Huskies, Chows, Malamutes, and Samoyeds flourish in cold weather.

2. Make sure your dog has shelter from the cold: Ideally, indoors is the place for dogs during the winter with quick trips out to play and potty. However some dogs just do not like to sleep inside. If you have a dog sleeping outdoors, make sure your pup has shelter from the cold, such as a dog house with bedding inside for warmth. Straw can provide insulation against the cold and holds in your dog’s body heat.

3. Get your pup a dog coat, dog boots, and dog sweaters: Dog clothes can help keep your furry friend toasty during the cold season. Small dogs, short haired dogs, senior dogs, and sick dogs get colder more quickly than others. A dog sweater indoors and a dog coat outdoors can help retain their body heat and keep them warm. Dog boots protect against snow and salt. Salt irritates dogs’ paws and can leave sores and should be avoided. Dogs are not used to wearing things on their feet, so it may take a little work to get your pup to accept the boots. Positive reinforcement training can work very well.

4. Be careful of grooming: Avoid shaving or excessively trimming your dog’s hair. Their full coat is needed during winter for warmth. Maintain a regular grooming schedule to avoid matted hair; it is less effective at keeping out rain and snow. Only bathe your dog indoors and make sure he is completely dry before letting him out. Keep the fur on paws well trimmed. Snow and ice can get trapped in paw fur.

5. Guard your dog against winter illness: Just like humans, dogs are more susceptible to illness during cold months. Keeping your dog warm and dry will guard against respiratory infections, like kennel cough. Frostbite can be a threat to some dogs, especially hairless or short-haired breeds. The ear and tail tips are the most vulnerable, so make sure to check those areas after time outdoors. Arthritic dogs and those with osteoarthritis may suffer more in the winter time. Talk to your vet about medication and treatment options.