How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Winter

Winter weather introduces new challenges for pet care. The cold can affect dogs just as much as it does humans, making it essential to adapt your care routine. During summer, you might focus on keeping your dog cool and hydrated, but winter calls for measures to keep them warm and dry. Monitoring their behaviour and adjusting their routine accordingly can make a significant difference in how they fare. 

Changing temperatures doesn’t just affect how they’re feeling, it can also affect their skin and coat. Cold air can make their skin dry and flaky, so consider using dog-safe moisturisers and balms like The Spa Cracked Paw & Nose Balm to soothe skin. Shorter daylight hours mean less time outdoors, which can impact their mental stimulation and physical activity. Ensuring they get enough exercise and interactive play is crucial to keeping them healthy. 

You may wonder if your canine companions feel the chill of winter as much as you do. Your fur baby can’t catch a common cold from you, but there are plenty of bugs and viruses around in winter so they can get sick with something very similar. They can show symptoms similar to humans, such as coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose. It's important to differentiate between a minor cold and something more serious like kennel cough or canine influenza. If your dog shows persistent symptoms, consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Cold weather can also exacerbate existing medical conditions, particularly in older dogs or those with arthritis. Always keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort or illness. Adding supplements to their diet depending on the season can be one way of combating some illnesses. You may be reaching for your daily vitamins every morning to keep healthy and you can do the same for your pup with products like Pedigree Multivitamin Immunity Dog Supplement Chews, made specifically to boost their immune system. Keeping up with their parasite prevention and health treatments is still important throughout the winter.  

Keeping your pooch warm and dry is essential during winter. After outdoor activities, make sure to dry them off thoroughly with a towel. Prolonged exposure to wet conditions can lead to hypothermia, which is particularly dangerous for small or older dogs. Always have a designated drying area with towels and a hairdryer on a low setting if necessary. 

You should set up a cosy sleeping area away from drafts. Elevated dog beds with thermal blankets can provide additional warmth. To make their bed extra snuggly, you can get them their very own pup-safe hot water bottle with the Snugglesafe Heat Pad. You simply have to microwave it and it retains heat for hours.   

Winter weather can limit outdoor activities, making it crucial to find ways to keep your pooch active indoors. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and indoor fetch games can provide mental and physical stimulation. If you have space you can create an indoor agility course using household items or just have a fun training session to learn some new tricks together.  

You can schedule playdates with their furry friends to keep them socially engaged. Go for winter walks together or visit an indoor play area to burn off some energy as well. It might be cold and wet outside but many canine companions aren’t put off by a bit of drizzle or a little frost on the ground and will still want to get out for a walk even if it has to be a shorter one. With indoor activities, you can find the perfect balance and make sure they’re still getting enough mental and physical enrichment.  

Cold weather can affect your furry friend’s metabolism, and they may need more calories to maintain their body heat. Providing a balanced diet with adequate proteins and fats can help them stay healthy and energetic. If they’re on a lean diet in the summer, they may need something with a higher fat content for the winter.  

Be cautious about overfeeding, as weight gain can lead to other health issues. Some four-legged friends may need more food to keep warm in winter while others who may be less active in winter can become prone to gaining a few pounds instead. Monitor their weight and adjust portions as needed. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times, as indoor heating can cause dehydration. 

Venturing outdoors with your furbaby during winter months requires a little extra preparation to ensure their safety and comfort. While the cold season presents challenges like icy pavements and freezing temperatures, it also offers opportunities for enjoyable activities such as snowy walks and playtime. 

Investing in winter clothes for your pooch can make a huge difference. A good quality dog coat or sweater helps retain body heat, especially for short-haired breeds or older pups. When shopping for clothes, look for materials that are both warm and breathable. Items such as thermal dog coats, waterproof jackets, and knitted sweaters can provide the necessary insulation. 

Ensure the clothing fits well but isn’t too tight. Ill-fitting clothes can cause discomfort and restrict movement. You can layer clothes on extremely cold days, but always monitor your pup to make sure they’re comfortable. 

Snow, salt, and grit can accumulate between your furry family member’s toes, causing irritation and even injury. After each walk, check their paws for any debris. Wipe them clean with a warm cloth to prevent any salt from causing dryness or cracks. Using a paw balm before a walk will help to create a barrier and then reapply it after you’ve wiped their paws post-walk as well.  

Boots like the Mikki Dog Boot are another excellent option for protecting your pup's paws. They may take some time to get used to, but they provide great protection against harsh elements. They’re great for general protection or if your pooch has an injury you want to cover while out for a stroll. Doggy boots can help to give your furry friend some extra traction on any icy and slippery surfaces.  

Visibility can be a challenge during winter due to shorter daylight hours and snowfall. Equip your pooch with reflective gear, such as vests or collars, to ensure they’re visible during walks. LED lights like the Smart Choice Led Flashing Silicone Blinker attached to their collar can also help with visibility. 

Frozen bodies of water pose significant risks to your canine companion. Thin ice can break under their weight, leading to potentially fatal situations. Keep your furbaby on a leash near lakes and rivers to prevent them from venturing onto the ice. Before a walk, look up the local water conditions and avoid areas known for thin ice. If an accident occurs, do not attempt to rescue your pooch yourself. Instead, call emergency services for help. 

Winter weather can disorient dogs, increasing the risk of them getting lost. It’s not just a legal requirement but making sure your dog is microchipped and wears a collar with updated contact information will keep them safe. Winter walks are often dark and in poor weather conditions but having these up to date will help you find them if the worst was to happen. Regularly check the condition of their collar and tags, replacing them if they show signs of wear. You can even look into getting your furry friend a GPS tracker that attaches to their collar for even more peace of mind.  

Winter can cause wear and tear on dog leads, collars, and harnesses. Regularly inspect them for any signs of damage and replace them if necessary. Strong, durable equipment is important for keeping your pooch safe during walks. Choose materials that can withstand cold and wet conditions. Properly fitting collars and harnesses provide better control and prevent accidents. A fully adjustable harness like the Rufus & Rosie Khaki Tactical Dog Vest Harness can help to protect from any mishaps and keep your pup nice and secure.  

Just as it’s dangerous to leave your dog in a hot car during summer, it’s equally risky to leave them in a cold car during winter. Cars can quickly become chilly, putting your dog at risk of hypothermia. Always take them with you when you leave the vehicle, or ensure they’re in a warm and safe environment while you're away. Not only does leaving your pup in a car pose the risk of dog theft when left unattended, but cars offer little in the way of protection from the cold and your pup will struggle to get warm if they become cold when left alone. 

Understanding when it’s too cold to walk your dog is crucial for their safety. A general rule is if it’s too cold for you, it’s likely too cold for them. Small, short-haired, or elderly dogs are more susceptible to cold temperatures. An older dog may start to struggle with temperatures below five degrees while all dogs should avoid going out in the cold if it hits lows of minus five.  

Signs of cold discomfort in dogs include shivering, lifting paws off the ground, and reluctance to move. If you notice these signs, it’s best to head indoors and provide warmth immediately. Shorten walks and increase indoor activities during very cold days so you can stay warm together.  

Winter can be a challenging season for pet parents, but with the right precautions, you can keep your furry friend safe and comfortable. Remember, just as you take steps to protect yourself from the cold, your dog needs similar care. From investing in proper winter clothing to ensuring they stay active indoors, every measure counts. For more tips and supplies to keep your dog safe this winter, visit us online and explore our range of doggy accessories.