Do dogs get cold in winter?

How well a dog tolerates cold depends on its breed characteristics. Thick six with a developed undercoat is able to give odds to the best down jackets! Northern dogs (huskies, malamutes, samoyeds) feel just fine in winter: they can even sleep in the snow! But for decorative short-haired breeds, frost is a real test. The crumbs freeze even in a cool apartment, not to mention walks in the middle of February. How to walk them? 

Here are some tips to help you adapt your walks to the cold season and keep your pet (and you) warm!

• If your dog is sensitive to the cold, purchase special clothing for him. It must be made of high-quality, safe materials and fit perfectly in size. For hairless and short-haired small breeds, such clothing is a must! Overalls can also be given to a medium and large dog, although in this case they are more valued for protection from dirt. Thanks to the huge assortment of clothes in pet stores, you can not only warm your pet, but also create an unusual look for him! Let’s fight the gray days!

• Correlate the duration of walks and the well-being of the dog. In summer, the owner can afford to “drive” the pet longer, but in winter such zeal is useless. If the dog is trembling and tucking its paws, you have two scenarios: lure him into an active game or rush into the house to warm up. Don’t let your pet freeze!

• Pet dogs do not have to be walked for a long time, but they still need to be walked. Even if your pet is litter box trained, outdoor walks are good for their health. How to walk dogs in winter? All human ingenuity will help you! You can hide the dog in a coat as soon as it starts to tremble, or walk it in a special stroller. By the way, did you know that dog strollers exist? And, of course, do not forget about insulated clothing. Another important nuance: if the dog walks and moves a little, play with it at home more often. No matter what anyone says, but movement is life!

During certain periods of walking dogs may be contraindicated. For example, during quarantine after vaccination or illness, during the rehabilitation period, etc. Be careful and always follow the recommendations of a veterinarian.

• Winter walks are equally active walks! If in the summer you could spend hours leisurely walking with your pet, then in winter you can’t do without sports! If you move a little, you will freeze yourself and freeze the dog. Come up with active outdoor entertainment, play fetching, frisbee, tug of war, chasing, go through obstacles. Each dog has a different level of exercise needs and should be taken into account. For example, a French Bulldog will be fine with a vigorous walk, but try to keep a Russell on a short leash! He will definitely figure out how to get revenge for this. Many dogs would be happy to share sports hobbies with the owner, such as running or skiing. Perhaps this is your best partner?

• Do dogs get cold paws in winter? For those sensitive to cold, yes. Along with the clothes you can buy special shoes for them. It is very functional: it warms, and protects from damage, and protects from dirt. Just imagine, you don’t have to wash your paws after every walk!

If cracks form on the paws, apply a special protective wax to the pads. A good product moisturizes, prevents damage, and also protects against slipping and reagents.

• Do not take your dog for a walk immediately after bathing until his coat is completely dry. This is a direct path to a cold!

What do your winter walks look like? Tell me!