10 Winter Time Tips For Dog Owners

Even though your dog has fur it is important to realize that they need a little help to stay warm in the winter too. Animals that normally live indoors do not naturally acclimatize to the weather as it gets colder the way their wild relatives do. Animals that live outdoors all the time grow thicker coats in the winter and usually put on extra weight to help protect them from the bitter winter weather. Our indoor pets do not do that. Here are 10 tips to keep your pet safe and warm this winter.

1. Your pet needs shelter is he or she is going to be out for longer periods of time. An insulated dog house will allow him to get out of the wind and to stay dry if it is snowing. Make sure the shelter is up off the ground, extra blankets or straw can be used to keep more heat in. You may also want to consider putting in a dog door so your pet can go in and out as needed. Make sure to look for a door with dual or double flaps so you wont lose a lot of heat out the dog door.

2. Dogs use their sense of smell to navigate. If it is snowing heavily, their scent tracks may get covered and they can become lost. If it is snowing heavily, keep your dog indoors, fenced, or on a leash.

3. Smaller dogs will lose body heat more quickly than larger ones. Dog sweaters and jackets are not just for fashion, they really do help keep your dog warm. Make sure when choosing a sweater that it cuts high enough on the belly for male dogs that it doesnt get wet when they urinate.

4. If your dog has been out on the sidewalks or streets there may be salt or chemical deicers on his paws. These substances can cause irritation to the paws or make the dog sick if he licks them. Rinse the paws thoroughly in warm water after going for walks.

5. The pads on some dogs feet are not very protected by fur. If your dog doesnt have very much fur around his pads be very careful for frostbite on the pads. If he starts limping or the skin turns red, grey, black, or white bring him indoors immediately.

6. If your dog has a lot of fur on his legs and feet be careful to check him carefully because ice balls will form in the fur on his feet and can cause frostbite, even after he has come inside.

7. If there is a lot of snow, shovel a path to your dogs bathroom area. Most dogs have very little fur on their bellies and if the snow is deep enough that they sink in they will lose a lot of heat from this sensitive area.

8. If is it colder than 20 degrees Fahrenheit you pet should only go out for bathroom breaks.

9. In the winter our homes are cooler and draftier. Small and elderly dogs can be especially affected by the temperature. A sweater, an extra blanket in his bed, or an electric warming bed will help keep the chills away.

10. It gets darker much earlier in the winter. If you walk your dog in the evening a reflective vest or collar will make him more visible to traffic.

Lots of dogs love the snow. They enjoy the brisk cool air and playing in the snow. By following the above tips you can make sure that this winter is fun and safe for your dog.