The beautiful winter season brings fantastic holidays, like Christmas and thanksgiving, and lovely weather. The cold can be unbearable sometimes, but that winter fashion keeps everyone looking stylish and feeling warm.
However, it might not be good for your dog. Whether your dog has a beautiful fur coat or not, it can still get cold. You have been keeping it inside the house, meaning it is accustomed to the warm temperature in a home. That is why cold weather affects them just as much, and you need to do many things to keep your dog safe.
Here are 6 amazing tips that you can use to keep your dog safe this winter.
Different Conditions with Different Breeds
Every breed is blessed with different things. Some dogs are better at cold weather, and others have more fun during the summer.
However, it is not as capable of surviving harsh weather conditions because it is accustomed to staying in a house. Your dog might have thick fur, but the ears and belly might not be covered. Moreover, you might’ve groomed the dog and trimmed some of its fur, leaving it more exposed. If the dog doesn’t have any hair, then it will need a layer or two to stay warm.
Avoid the Outdoors As Much As Possible
While your dog loves going on walks, it might not be right in the winter. Your dog’s paws can get very cold by walking on the cold ground.
You can take your dog out during the day when the sun is shining. Going in the sun can also have the added benefit of vitamin D, for both you and your dog.
While most people love throwing a stick and playing fetch, it would be best to use toys, a frisbee, or a ball, as the wooden stick can cause injuries.
Make the Bed More Comfortable
Your dog also needs to be comfortable around the house on the cold winter days. Don’t let your dog sleep on the floor, as it can be cold and also damage the canine’s bones. You can now easily buy pet products online and browse for new things.
However, it would be best to get a proper bed. There are many beds made for different breeds of dogs. You can get one suitable for your pooch and also make improvements.
You can also get a snug blanket to make your dog more warm and comfortable. There are also a variety of heated beds, but they can sometimes be dangerous.
Keeping the bed in a safe spot, away from doors and windows would be best. Also, it would be better if there was a rug or carpet beneath the bed.
Don’t Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
You might’ve heard about not keeping a dog in a parked car in the summer, as they can pass out from the heat. But have you thought about the winter?
The car can get very cold during the winter, making your dog cold. That is why you should either leave your dog home while running errands or keep them on a leash and take them along to the place.
Limit the Meals
Since you are not going to go out much and your dog might not be getting much exercise, is there really a need for a lot of calories? You need to take very good care of your dog and watch for the change in its activity. If your dog is having a rather lazy day, then it would be best to limit the meals. If you both went out for a walk in the morning or had a game of fetch, then it might be alright to give the regular foods.
Protect Your Dog from Heaters
You might turn on the heater to keep yourself warm, but your dog might want the heat too. That is why you might want to avoid space heaters and put up covered radiators to prevent your dog from getting burnt. Not only heaters, but the fireplaces can also pose a threat. You should cover up other appliances and areas that produce heat as well to keep your pooch safe.