Secrets to winter proofing your dog

Brrr…

There’s a chill in the air. The leaves are falling. Soon, snowflakes will begin drifting downwards from the sky and lining the streets with snow. 

How does your dog feel about winter? 

For many pups, winter is a time of great fun. But all that snow and ice can prove to be dangerous for dogs. Unlike us human, canines cannot adapt to the weather. Instead, they need us – their loving owners – to keep them safe and warm! 

Here’s how:

1.    Paw protection is a must

All that salt on the sidewalks and roads can lead to cracked paws. Similarly, frozen ground can be uncomfortable. Avoid painful walks and long-term damage by putting booties on your dog’s feet. They might hop around and be silly at first…but it’s worth it to protect their sensitive paw pads! 

2.    Limit walks in below zero temperatures 

Letting Fido outside to do his business is a-okay. But if it’s too cold for a person to be outside for more than 10-15 minutes, it’s also too cold for a dog. Remember, hypothermia can be deadly. 

3.    Invest in a thick coat 

Dogs have fur. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t feel cold. While some breeds like huskies adore being caught in a whiteout snowstorm, most pooches will shiver when the temperature drops too much. Keep them cozy with a thick coat.

4.    Stay dry

It can be challenging to stay dry in winter. Freezing rain and slush is everywhere! When your dog inevitably gets wet, pat dry with a towel as soon as you get home.  

5.    Know the signs of frostbite 

If your dog’s skin is bluish-white, swollen, and painful when touched, they may be suffering from frostbite. Ouch. Keep an eye out to prevent this from happening.

Now, you and your pup can enjoy the season, even if those walks are a little chillier than normal.