Winter affects dogs like how it affects us. If you feel cold and you want to bundle up to feel warm, consider the same for your dog. Don’t think that their thick fur coat is enough to keep them warm during the winter. Sure, it helps a lot to regulate their temperature but there are times when it would not suffice and would need a little help from you.
It’s important that when the weather gets colder and snow begins to cover the ground that you change your pet’s daily routine since there are certain dangers that your dog is at risk at when the temperature drops. Knowing what these risks are and how they could be avoided would make your dog’s life better.
Frostbite
According to veterinarians, you should be wary of frostbite during winter and take extra care of your dog’s legs, ears and tails which are your dog’s most vulnerable parts. Since your dog still need to exercise and to go out for a walk.
To ensure that the likelihood of them experiencing frostbite is lesser, shorten your walks or walk during the time of the day when it’s not that cold like in the afternoon. But if it is not possible, shop for dog winter coats and dog boots to provide them warmth when you are outside. If your dog does not want to wear dog boots, make sure to wipe their paws after a walk since it is dangerous and they might be ill after they lick their paws.
Burn
Since its cold, your dog might be drawn to heat sources and warm spots in your home. You might always see them curled up near the radiator or heater or fireplace. This could be dangerous since it might pose as a burn risk to them.
They might fall asleep while cosying up to a heat source and might not feel that they are already too hot. Since they feel comfortable because of the warmth, it might be difficult for you to pry them away from it. Just make sure that they stay within the proximity of the heat source with supervision so the risk of them getting burnt is avoided.
Weight loss
Since your dog needs energy to maintain its body heat, they would require an increase in calories in their diet once it becomes cold. Due to their changed metabolism and if the additional calories they needed to intake is not met, they might experience weight loss.
However, if your dog is less active during the winter, there is no need to increase their calorie intake. Be wary of altering their diet during the winter and just ensure that their calories intake is equal to their energy level since you would not want your dog to suffer from obesity either.
As a rule of thumb, when it feels too cold for you, it’s probably the same for your dog. You might need to change a few of your routines and how you care for your dog during the winter but these are all necessary to keep your dog happy and healthy the entirety of the cold season.
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