5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Comfortable in Winter
Sometimes the winter is not an easy time for our four-legged friends. As the temperature starts to plummet and snowfall rapidly increases, additional care is needed to keep your dog safe. Read on to discover five ways you can take extra good care of your pooch and help them thrive in the chillier (whining) months.
1. Keep Them Warm
Dogs really are just like us and sometimes get a bit chilly. Keep your dog inside on a warm, padded bed. Get your dog a good quality and insulated or heated if they are outdoors sunken in the yard. Invest in a dog sweater/coat during walks, especially for the smaller or short-haired dogs
2. Stay Active
It is important to continue exercising your dog, even when the weather outside starts to get cooler. Shorter, but more frequent walks can help ensure they stay active and engaged without leaving them out in the cold too long. Indoor playtime, fetch or tug-of-war are just a few options to keep them busy during the worst of weather.
3. Hydration is Key
This is one you might think no brainer, yet its also easy to forget that dogs still need fresh water in the winter. Never allow your dog's water bowl to freeze and always fill it with clean, unfrozen, potable water. Remember that water can freeze fast in outdoor environments; make sure to check it regularly and change if the weather is below zero.
4. Paw Care
It will only make things worse for your dog's paws in harsh winter conditions. The salt, snow and ice can cause dryness or cracking. Check your dog's paws for cuts, before their walk and after they get back — especially in the cold weather–and you can even use some doggy booties to protect those sweet little paw beans. This will also help prevent their paw pads from becoming cold or getting any snow of ice stuck between them.
5. Watch for Hazards
Watch For The Tricky Winter App Compat Activity Anti-freeze is the bane of many a car, but it can also be lethal for pets that like to drink up so keep this substance sealed well out of reach. Always be aware of icy conditions where a fall might occur. Ponds, it's important to remember that even the most adventurous dogs can wind up getting into trouble; and of course be aware that ice on any water body is unsafe.
If you follow these other dutiful tips, your dog will also thank you and hopefully stay happy, healthy safe this winter season! A little more care in winter can always result into a longer life of your lovely pet.
