Keeping your dog warm is a struggle during the winter, even when they have a stunning coat of fur that is meant to keep them warm. Some dogs are born with a lot of hair that can make them comfortable during even the most severe dips in temperature, but some will need extra care to keep them warm this winter.
Eight ways to keep your dog warm this winter
Although many dogs have stunning and thick coats of hair, there are plenty of things you can do to ensure your dog is comfortable all winter long.
Invest in a dog jacket based on the dog’s breed
A dog jacket or sweater can be the perfect way to ensure your dog stays warm this winter without much intervention. For example, many Golden Retrievers for sale are bred to make their coat thick and perfect for the winter. If your dog has good, thick fur, it will be able to stay comfortable without you worrying about its health and wellness while you both play in the snow.
A dog jacket can make a big difference in keeping your dog comfortable and can be easily put away and replaced with summer clothes as the weather starts to warm up again.
Stay inside
When possible, take your dog indoors as the weather starts to dip. Staying indoors will be essential as the weather begins to reach unbearably low temperatures. Dogs can remain outside to play on their own while you are running errands. However, always check the local weather to see how low the temperatures will get.
If you notice the temperatures will fall to dangerous degrees, bring your dog inside and keep them away from the snow and ice outside.
Use extra blankets
Offer your dog extra blankets in the winter. Extra blankets will help keep your dog warm and ensure it won’t get too cold in the middle of the night. Extra blankets can also help your dog warm up after a few hours of playing outside. You should use fuzzy or fleece blankets to make your pet as comfortable as possible.
Offer more food
Your dog may need more food in the winter. Eating high-quality meals can make your dog warmer and ensure they feel better as the season progresses. Consider feeding your dog foods without artificial dyes since these can cause hyperactivity and canine cancers. Instead, focus on offering foods that will make your dog warm and full.
Use a heating pad on a mild setting
Never use a heating pad under your dog’s bedding while unsupervised. However, while supervised, mild heat from a pad can make your dog extra cozy, especially after a long play session in the snow. Additionally, this can ease any ailments they may feel in their bones or muscles from their playtime outside.
A heating pad can also melt the snow in their fur and help to dry them off, preventing any hypothermia or other scary disorders that the cold can cause.
Invest in dog shoes
Dog shoes can make a world of difference for you and your dog. Dog shoes can help dogs get traction in the snow and ensure they’re able to go sledding and enjoy all the snow activities you have planned for the winter.
Dog shoes will keep your dog from suffering from any paw pad injuries or frostbite when the temperatures drop to dangerous degrees. Additionally, dog shoes can reduce the risk of your dog stepping on a sharp foreign object and needing bandages or an emergency veterinary visit.
Offer shelter
Always ensure your dog has plenty of outdoor shelters when you leave them outside. A simple doghouse or other covered location can ensure they have a place to hide away from the snow without needing to come inside.
A patio can offer good shelter to your playful pet who wants to remain outside but needs a small break from their play. Consider your space and yard before allowing your dog out. Adequate shelter is instrumental in making sure your dog stays safe during winter play.
Surround its crate with warm blankets
Use blankets to surround your dog’s crate during the winter. These blankets can help insulate your dog’s crate and ensure they remain comfortable while sleeping. Blankets will be especially beneficial if your dog’s crate is on tile, which can radiate cold air into their crate and make them feel even more chilled.
Choose fuzzy or fleece blankets to lock in the warmth and ensure they are comfortable all night long.
Final Thoughts
Winter is perfect for fun activities like sledding or building snowmen with your pup. However, your dog may need extra protection, like snow jackets and shoes. When in doubt, keep your dog indoors to ensure they don’t get too cold and stay protected from harsh temperatures.
Consider giving your dog more food and water to ensure their digestive system stays in working order and that they have as much bedding as needed to remain comfortable.
