How to winterize your dog?

Yes, dogs need to be winterized to ensure they have a fun and safe winter. Some long-haired breeds like Huskies and Akitas are made for cold weather, but other short-haired dogs like Boxers and Greyhounds… not so much. Small dogs, in particular, are susceptible to cold temps because they have a relatively high ratio of body surface to body weight. This means they lose body heat far more easily than bigger breeds. So, this season, get your dog a stylish coat that will keep them warm on walks, or even just running around in the back yard. Keep Them Dry, sure, your dog loves rolling around in the snow, and you love getting a video of them doing it. But once they come inside, be sure to dry them as thoroughly as you can. Would you want to be forced to wear wet clothes all day, no, you’d be very uncomfortable and would most likely get sick. Well, a dog’s coat retains water, this means they can have cold wetness next to their skin for hours and this increases their risk of hypothermia. This is another good reason to have your dog wear a coat outside, to keep snow and cold rain off of them, and, when they come in, be sure to towel off their heads and paws. Also, never use metal water bowls outside in the winter, as your dog’s tongue can stick to the cold metal. Best to use hard plastic bowls. Use Only Pet-safe Products, salt and chemicals used to melt icy steps and sidewalks can pose a threat to your dog’s paws. While you can’t expect your neighbors to use pet-safe ice melts, you should be sure to use them around your own home. And even though these alternatives are not as harsh, they can still irritate your dog’s paws, so be sure to give his paws a good wipe when you come inside. And, as a precaution, check under your car regularly for leaks and wipe up any pools that may have formed. To be completely safe, use a pet-friendly antifreeze that contains a bittering agent – they won’t be inspired to eat it. Kick Their Nutrition Up a Notch, like people, most dogs become less active during the winter months when it gets colder outside, however, there are some dogs who may become more active in winter months. Those dogs that become less active will need to cut back on calories so they don’t put on excess weight, this is especially true for older dogs who may suffer from arthritis, a sudden weight gain can make it more painful and difficult to move around. Conversely, if you and your four-legged companion are very active during the winter months, your dog may need more calories, dogs who spend time running around in the cold burn extra calories to stay warm. Less humidity in the air can mean cracked dry skin for both you and your dog, if you notice your dog itching more during the winter months, consider giving them fish oil with their meals, this not only provides omega-3s for their overall health, but will also help with their dry skin. You can either hide a fish oil capsule in some cheese, or poke a hole in it and drizzle it over their food, most dogs love the fishiness and will happily gobble it up. Another thing you may want to consider is applying a healing balm specially medicated for animals, if applying it to an area easily reached by your pet, keep an eye on them so they don’t lick it all off. Don’t Force Old or Sick Dogs outside, these will catch any urine and feces, so your dog can stay warm and dry while your home stays nice and clean. Pet Parents offers washable dog diapers and belly bands in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can be sure to find the right size for your fur baby. Vulnerable pets are the most vulnerable to harsh winter conditions and you may find you are struggling just to get your dog to go outside to potty, putting some wee wee pads down is one option, although, having already trained your dog to go outside, it may be hard to get them to use them, a better option is to use dog diapers and belly bands.

Watch out on walks: Snow and ice can take a toll on your dog’s paws. If they suddenly starts limping during a walk, check for ice between their toes, and soothe cracked or red paw pads with a little petroleum jelly. You can buy booties to protect pets’ paws from the cold and ice, but be sure that they fit well and that they don’t keep your dog from enjoying their time outdoors. Grab a sweater: Dogs with thick fur probably don’t need an extra layer when they head outside, but smaller breeds and those with short coats may be happier in a cozy sweater or coat. Make your house the dog’s house: If your dog spends most of their time outside, you need to be careful when winter sets in, even if they have a doghouse. The best way to keep your pooch safe is to keep them inside with you. Keep chemicals away: Your car’s antifreeze tastes sweet to pets, but it can be deadly if they swallow it. Give extra helpings: If your dog spends a lot of time exercising outside in the cold, they’ll burn more calories and may need a little extra food to help them refuel. Take care of sensitive skin: Just like your skin, your dog’s skin gets drier, itchier, and flakier in the winter. Don’t bathe them as often as you do in the summer -- that strips away their coat’s natural oils. Recheck their collar, tag, and chip: It’s easier for dogs to get lost in the winter than at other times of the year.

Limit bathing to avoid removing natural oils and further drying out the skin. When bathing, use lukewarm water and moisturizing shampoos in a warm room to ensure that your dog doesn’t become too cold. Continue brushing your pup in the wintertime with an appropriate brush type for their fur to help skin circulation and prevent matting. If your furry friend has short hair Invest in a dog sweater or jacket and some booties to help insulate them from the cold. Make sure that their bedding is away from drafty windows and doors. Wet dogs are also at a higher risk of hypothermia so always towel dry a wet dog in the winter.