Caring for your dog during the winter

The leaves are falling from the trees, the darker evenings are upon us and there’s a distinctive nip in the air. These are all signs that winter is just around the corner. Read our top ten tips to help you care for your dog over the winter months.

1. Keeping your dog warm

If you find yourself reaching for your coat when it’s time for walkies, spare a thought for your dog too. While the majority of dogs grow a suitable coat to protect them through the colder months, some dogs are less hardy than others and may need a little extra help to keep warm. If your dog shivers when outside or seem less keen to go out than usual, it may be worth getting them their own canine coat. These specially designed dog coats are available for all sizes, from the tiniest Chihuahua to giant breeds, and can provide a valuable extra layer of warmth in the colder weather. Similarly, make sure that your dog’s bed or the rooms in which they spend their time is suitably heated, and away from any draughts or damp patches.

2. Feeding your dog

Your dog’s body fat is essential for protecting him from the cold and maintaining his body temperature during the winter months. But take care not to overfeed and bear in mind that the colder months can lead to reduced levels of activity in your dog. This can make it easy for them to pile on the pounds. Keep an eye on your dog’s food intake and weight, and be prepared to alter their feeding rations according to the season and their activity levels. Don’t forget to keep your dog hydrated, and make sure clean, fresh water is freely available at all times.

3. Protecting your dog’s paws

Ice, snow, slush and the grit or chemicals used to clear the roads and pavements of ice can soon take their toll on your dog’s feet. It’s particularly important during the winter months to keep your dog’s paws clean and well-groomed during the winter months. Monitor for any sore patches, cracks or cuts and use a moisturiser or a dog paw balm to help protect and keep paws healthy.

Invest in some dog boots to keep your dogs paws warm, dry and protected when outdoors in the winter months - boots come in different sizes to fit different breeds of dogs.

4. Playing with your dog

In the colder weather, your dog will take longer to warm up and loosen their joints and muscles when exercising, so you should take things gently at first when playing catch or running around.

The cold air temperature and harder ground can take their toll on your dog’s joints and muscles, so give them time to acclimatise to being outdoors.

Remember that ponds or lakes that are iced over will look just like normal terrain to your dog. Prevent your dog from walking on them as the ice may be unable to support their weight, resulting in a potentially dangerous or fatal incident.

5. Keeping your dog healthy

Just as humans can be more prone to viral infections such as coughs and colds during the winter months, your dog will be more susceptible to them too. A strong immune system is important to help your dog to fight off viruses and infections, so make sure that your dog is in tip-top health coming into the winter.

Consider feeding a vitamin supplement if needed to give your dog an extra boost. Some medical conditions such as arthritis are more pronounced during the cold weather, so bear this in mind if your dog has any ongoing medical concerns or conditions. Keep them warm, be alert to the signs of pain or discomfort, and talk to your vet if you need a little extra help.

6. Staying alert to winter hazards

Antifreeze is essential for keeping cars running during the winter, but it is highly toxic to dogs. For this reason, you should never leave open containers of antifreeze lying around; make sure you clear up any spills quickly and store them safely out of reach of your dog.

7. Reducing the risk of burns or scalds

When it is cold, your dog may be keen to snuggle up to the nearest available source of heat. This could be a radiator, an open fire or a hot water bottle. Burns or scalds can happen quickly, so make sure that you use a pet-proof fireguard if you have an open fire and ensure that hot water bottles are well-sealed and not leaking. Always keep an eye on your dog around heat sources.

8. Grooming your dog

In the lead up to winter, dogs shed their lighter summer coat and grow thicker, heavier winter coats to keep them warm during the colder months. The thicker and heavier the coat, the more likely it is to become matted or knotted - and to harbour fleas. Groom your dog regularly during the winter, making sure that you use a comb as well as a brush to get right down to the skin.

9. Caring for elderly dogs

Elderly and mature dogs are much less able to deal with the changing seasons and colder weather than younger dogs. For this reason, they may need special care and attention during the winter. Older dogs are unable to regulate their body temperature as effectively as young dogs, so take extra care to keep your dog warm. They will also be more prone to muscle and joint strains and will injure more easily.

Remember your dog’s age when walking and playing, and make allowances for this. Keep an eye on your older dog’s health, wellness and general condition, as they may be more susceptible to winter coughs and colds.

10. Monitoring your dog’s winter wellbeing

Common sense goes a long way to seeing your dog through the winter months safely and comfortably, so use your judgement when considering temperature, feeding, exercise and general care. Dogs can generally manage the colder months perfectly comfortably but some may need a little extra help. Just pay attention to your dog’s needs, think ahead, and be on the lookout for the warning signs of any problems. Many dogs love playing in the snow and crisp winter air just as much as we do, so enjoy your winter with your dog, and stay warm!