Dog care is very important for pet owners. Now that the winter has finally arrived, we are all snuggling up with blankets and hot chocolate. The winter chill is something we prepare for long before the cold weather arrives. We stock up on essentials like scarves, gloves and socks as well as sweaters and jackets to prepare for the cold weather. Have we thought of the dog owner’s challenges?
The winters can be harsh for dogs. They feel it too. The cold weather can be a challenge for dog owners. You know how difficult it is to keep your dog warm and safe.
Here are some essentials you should get for your dog to help them through winter.
1. Paw Protection
Salt spread by snowplows or shovelers on sidewalks and streets to melt ice is even more harmful for the pooch’s feet. When snow is combined with salt, it can burn your dog’s feet.
You have two choices to choose from to protect the paws of your dog. Rubber booties are the first choice. The booties stay in place for a long time, particularly if they are the correct size. These are waterproof, and they’re disposable.
You can also use Paw Wax. This is a cream-like substance that is applied to your dog’s pads between the toes and on their paws. After a long walk, you’ll have to remove it or your home will be covered in wax.
2. A Dog Jacket
Even though we are aware that the fur of a canine acts as an effective defense against cold weather, it is important to have a jacket for those dogs who only have short or thin hair. This dog jacket is also a good choice if your area gets very cold.
If you are looking for a jacket to keep your dog warm, it should be at least reasonably waterproof. You should be able to use a leash when you go for walks. It is important to choose the right size jacket. You should carefully follow all the instructions.
3. Healing Balm
During the cold winter months, we all use lotions or balms to soothe our lips and skin. Even our dogs can get cracked paws or noses. Get a butter balm to soothe your pet’s cracked nose and paws.
4. The Warmest Dog House
We turn up the heat in our homes during cold days in order to stay warm. Why not do the same with our dogs? Your dog will want to snuggle up when it returns from playing in the snow. Buy them a dog house where they can relax and bundle up. A dog heater could be used to warm the house.
The Best Tips for Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Happy in Winter
This is a quick guide on how to keep your pet healthy and happy during the winter season.
- The fur of a dog that is short-haired or still in its puppy stage may not protect it as effectively from harsh winter temperatures. Buy them a coat to keep warm in the winter. You don’t need them feeling too suffocated in layers. Also, you can get them booties for their paws to keep them warm on surfaces like ice and snow. They also offer better traction.
- Tolerance to cold can vary depending on breed, age and other factors such as fat deposits, length of the coat, etc. You should be aware of any differences in your dog’s behavior or activities during cold weather.
- It is important to adapt your pet’s eating habits for the winter cold. Your vet can help you determine if your pet has any nutrition requirements. Exercise and activity will be key in determining how many calories your pet requires. If your dog doesn’t exercise much, you may want to consider low-calorie snacks, but if it is very active, you might want to increase the calories in its diet.
- Check your driveway or garage for any antifreeze that may have spilled. Anti-freeze is tasty to dogs, who may eat it without realizing it’s toxic. Your dog can be poisoned by it.
- Exercise is still important for your dog, even if it’s cold outside. You can still exercise your dog at home by playing with him or running up the stairs. Indoor playtime will help your dog stay active during the winter.
- Avoid frozen ponds or lakes. It is possible that your dog could fall in if the ice breaks.
- Winter winds and snowfall can affect your dog’s sense of smell. You should always be close to your dog when outdoors, or else you may lose it. You should always keep your dog in a harness during the winter.
- After the snow melts, make sure to wipe off your dog’s paws. They may have been exposed to de-icing agents and salt.
- During winter, visit your vet to ensure that your dog is in good health. During the winter, dogs may suffer from arthritis or other conditions.