Winter Care Tips For Your Dog
Monday, November 18, 2019 12:33:00 PM America/Los_Angeles
1. Know When Your Dog Is Cold:
Feeling your dog's ears is a good way to tell if they are cold. If your dog's ears feel cold, especially around the edges, then it is time to wrap them up in a blanket. Some dog breeds are blessed with thick fur that naturally keeps them warm, but other dogs may need to wear a sweater or coat in the winter time. Your dog's sweater or coat should cover the area from their neck to their tail and should wrap around to cover their belly.2. Provide A Warm Bed:
Ever see your dog move from their bed to the hardwood floor in the summer time? This is because the ground is cooler! Be sure that in the wintertime, your dog has a cozy dog bed to cuddle up into. You should be wary of the cold floor and make sure that they are not laying on it.3. Moisturize:
Exposure to winter’s rain, snow, and dry air can cause chapped paws and noses, in addition to itchy, flaking skin. You can help prevent this by moisturizing your pup's paws and nose with petroleum jelly! You can also use coconut oil on your dogs paws, ears, tail or wherever you see dry skin! Adding coconut oil to their food will help keep their coat from becoming dry and flaky as well, and is a trusted form of winter care for dogs. Lastly, avoid bathing your dog often in the winter as this can lead to dry skin. Bathing too often removes essential oils in your dog's coat. If bathing is necessary, be sure you have a shampoo that is extremely moisturizing.
4. Protect The Paws:
Dog's paws can easily become cracked in the winter time, especially if they spend time outdoors. Definitely consider purchasing winter booties to go along with that sweater as part of good winter care for dogs! Another way to protect your dog's paws is to trim the hair that grows between their paw pads. This is necessary to prevent ice buildup! After walks, be sure to wipe your pups paws as the salt on the sidewalk can be dangerous.5. Avoid Exposure To Toxins:
Like previously stated, salt can be toxic to pups if ingested. Antifreeze is another toxin. It actually tastes sweet and dogs often WANT to lick it. Just a small amount can be fatal so be SURE to keep your dog away from the driveway and garage in the winter! You could also consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol as part of precautionary winter care for dogs.
6. Minimize Walks:
As you can see, the harsh winter weather can really take a toll on your pup and one of the best things to do is limit their time outdoors when the temperatures drop. Daily walks should continue for your dog's overall health, but it is wise to limit their time outside when possible. Instead of outdoor potty breaks, consider purchasing an indoor potty solution, such as Bark Potty, for your dog. Bark Potty is a great alternative because it is real bark, so it contains the natural smells that dogs are used to when they are outside. Your dog should take to the Bark Potty right away! It's extremely affordable, eco-friendly, and requires no maintenance!
Your pup will thank you :)