Winter can be a magical and favourite season for many, but it can also present unique challenges for pet owners.
As temperatures drop, our dogs may need a little extra care to stay healthy, comfortable, and safe.
We’ve put together some of our top tips on how you can keep your dog protected through these colder months and enjoy the winter period too!
Understanding your dog’s body temperature
Dogs have a natural body temperature between 101-102.5°F (38.3-39.2°C), which is slightly higher than humans at 37°C. They are lucky to have fur which can act as a barrier to the cold. However, not all dogs have coats thick enough to withstand winter’s chill.
Breeds like Huskies are naturally equipped for cold weather, while short-haired breeds such as Bulldogs or smaller dogs like Dachshunds may struggle more with the chill.
Remember that while fur provides warmth, prolonged exposure to the cold can still lead to hypothermia, especially if a dog gets wet. Keep an eye on signs like shivering or seeking out warm spots, and make sure they have warm bedding to snuggle into at home.
Safe winter walks
We’ve all slipped on ice at some point during winter and had to walk in the dark past 5pm.
Here’s some advice on how you can make sure you and your dog can enjoy safe walks during the coldest seasons of the year.
Walking in the dark
We all know that winter brings shorter days, so dog walks often happen in the dark. Equip yourself and your pooch with reflective gear to stay safe and seen to cars and passers-by. Investing in accessories such as LED collars, leashes, and reflective vests are a great way to do this.
Protecting their paws
Rock salt, de-icer, and other chemicals on paths and roads are great for keeping surfaces safe for us humans, but can you imagine walking on it with your hands?
These chemicals can be irritating to your dog’s paws and even cause chemical burns in some cases. After each dog walks, gently clean its paws, and consider using a paw balm to protect against the cold and keep it hydrated.
Avoiding puddles and snow near roads
Antifreeze is highly toxic to dogs but its sweet taste can make it appealing to them when they’re out and about.
Be cautious when walking near driveways during cold, icy weather, and keep an eye on them at all times to ensure they don’t lick puddles or eat roadside snow.
Although not as common here in the UK, during harsh winter spells, it’s essential to take extra precautions to keep your dog safe. One critical risk to watch out for is frozen lakes and ponds. While they may look like fun, adventurous spaces for your dog to explore, they can be incredibly dangerous. Even if a frozen lake looks solid, it’s often thinner than it appears and can easily crack under your dog’s weight. Should your dog fall through the ice, the freezing water can lead to hypothermia within minutes, making it a life-threatening situation. Rescue efforts can also be dangerous for you and others involved – so it’s best to take extra precautions to keep everyone safe.
Wrap up warm
For breeds with less natural insulation, a dog coat can be an excellent investment. If temperatures are below 32°F (0°C) or if it’s very windy, a coat is generally advisable for smaller or short-haired dogs.
Keeping them dry
If cold weather isn’t bad enough, cold wet weather can be seriously dangerous. Melting snow or ice, or simply rain can easily lead to hypothermia in your pets.
Make sure to dry them off thoroughly once inside, and provide a cosy space, with plenty of blankets, for them to warm up afterwards. Heated dog beds or sweaters are always a popular choice to keep your pet happy, especially if your house is prone to draft.
For comfort, we recommend placing the dog bed away from cold tiles or near windows which could let in a chill. Be wary of placing dog beds right next to heaters because it can be a fire hazard, and keep them away from the fireplace.
We recommend gating off your fireplace, even when it’s not in use, so that it poses no harm to your pet. It’s quite natural for a dog to want to be close to a source of warmth especially when it’s cold outside.
Winter health issues for dogs
Fleas and ticks
Fleas can still survive in the colder months, especially indoors where a warm environment provides a haven for them to survive.
It’s essential to keep up with flea prevention even through the winter months. To help manage the cost of flea and worm treatments, consider our Pet Health Plan, starting at just £15.50 for dogs, which provides year-round coverage.
Dry skin
The combination of cold air outside and dry indoor heat can lead to dry skin, irritation, and even cracking.
Regularly brushing their coat, ensuring they’re well-hydrated and moisturised, can help combat cracks in the cold weather.
Arthritis and joint pain
Cold weather can make joint pain worse, especially in older dogs or those with arthritis. If this is a concern, keep your eyes peeled for signs of stiffness, reluctance to move, or limping.
Warm bedding should always be provided for comfort, along with joint supplements. Cold and hard surfaces can be uncomfortable for dogs and it’s important to limit the time spent on these surfaces to help manage discomfort.
If you think your dog needs some extra attention, our Rehabilitation Team can assess your dog’s needs to see if they are suitable for hydrotherapy, which can improve their arthritis and pain.
Respiratory issues
The cold air can aggravate respiratory problems, especially in breeds with shorter snouts like Bulldogs or Pugs, who may struggle more with breathing in frigid air.
For these BOAS (Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome) breeds, we recommend limiting time outside on extremely cold days. Instead, consider visiting local indoor dog parks or playing with your dog at home to keep them active.
Gastrointestinal upset from festive foods
We all know that winter can encourage many more treats in the house including chocolate, nuts, onions, and certain seasonings. These treats are toxic to dogs and some fatty foods can cause pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas.
Keep these foods out of reach from your dog to avoid any unexpected vet visits over the Christmas period.
Dogs can be nosey and inquisitive creatures, and the festive period comes with lots of new accessories to check out, such as Christmas tree branches and hanging ornaments. Try placing pet-safe barriers around the tree and distracting them with their favourite toys nearby.
Infections from water exposure
Wet, cold conditions create an environment where bacteria can thrive. Canine Leptospirosis, for instance, is a bacterial infection that dogs can contract from contaminated water or soil, and it’s more prevalent in damp conditions.
Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date throughout the winter months. To book a vaccination appointment for your pet, get in touch with us today.
Seasonal behaviour changes
Your dog’s behaviour might change with the season, as it can do sometimes for us humans! Some dogs may become more lethargic and want to sleep more in the winter, while others may become restless due to fewer outdoor activities.
If your dog seems more energetic indoors, consider indoor play or training sessions to provide stimulation and keep them engaged.
Grooming in winter
Pet owners should keep on top of their dog’s grooming, especially in winter, even if your dog’s shedding patterns have reduced.
Avoid shaving your dog’s coat in winter and maintain a regular brushing regime to prevent matting and regulate their temperature. Matted fur can trap moisture, making them colder.
Bathing your dog should be done sparingly, as frequent baths can dry out their skin, so save these baths for when they are most required during winter!
Adjusting their diet
The winter cold can increase your dog’s calorie needs, especially if they’re more active or spend a lot of time outside. However, you should monitor their weight closely since reduced levels of activity can mean they require fewer calories.
Dehydration can still occur in winter, especially if they spend time in heated environments, so it’s important to make sure your dog is well-hydrated and has access to clean water at all times.
Regular vet checks
Winter can be a fantastic time to enjoy life with your furry best friend, but keeping them safe and healthy requires some extra care.
Take time to adjust their routine, and find out how they react to the different seasons.
If you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s health, get in touch with our team today and we’ll be happy to advise.
