As the winter chill settles in across the country, pet owners often find themselves facing new challenges in caring for their four-legged companions. Dogs, like people, have varying needs based on the season, and the winter’s harsh weather can pose unique difficulties for our furry friends. Understanding how to best navigate these challenges is crucial to the health and well-being of our four-legged companions. At petbar, we know the importance of adapting our care routines to meet the specific needs of our pets during the winter months.
Winter Walks
For most dogs, a daily walk is crucial to their routine. It’s not only good physical exercise, but it helps with mental stimulation, as well as socialization with other dogs and other people. While you and your pet may be used to a certain walk routine during more temperate months, taking your dog for a walk during the winter requires a bit more consideration. It’s essential to recognize that different breeds have varying tolerance levels to cooler temperatures. While some breeds, such as Siberian Huskies and Saint Bernards, were bred to thrive in the cold and snow, others may need shorter walks to prevent overexertion. Breeds such as French Bulldogs and Greyhounds, which both have shorter coats and less fatty bodies, have a much smaller window for how long they can be exposed to cold before they begin to experience negative effects. Even Great Danes, which are very large dogs, can only really handle around 20 minutes in 32-degree Fahrenheit weather before it is best to call it quits.
Investing in dog sweaters or shoes can also make a significant difference, providing added warmth and protection from icy surfaces. Just as we bundle up in winter gear, our canine companions can benefit from a little extra insulation. Introducing high-quality protective gear can help your furry friend to withstand longer periods of time outside during colder months, and can help them warm up more quickly when they get back inside. If you do opt to dress your dog in anything, make sure to remove these items before allowing them to go to sleep for the night, as they could easily become overheated inside. Additionally, after your dogs wear any sort of clothing, it is best practice to make sure to brush their coats to prevent fur matting. Providing your pet with warm outliers can be very beneficial for them, but only when used safely and correctly.
Remember, no matter your dog’s breed or what they are wearing for warmth, no breed should spend longer than about 35 minutes outside in 32-degree weather, and they should not be outside at all when temperatures are below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Coat Care in Cold Weather:
It is important for the health of your dog that their coat is well maintained year-round, regardless of the weather. Just like with daily walks, while you may have a well-established grooming routine that works well for you and your pet during warmer months, your dog’s coat will present different needs during chillier times of year. The dry, cold air that is characteristic of winter can cause several skin and coat issues, so it’s essential to moisturize regularly. At petbar, we use high-quality and skin-enriching conditioners to ensure your dog’s skin and coat maintain moisture and are prepared to fight the cold.
Additionally, consider leaving your pup’s coat a bit longer than you normally would for added warmth and insulation, but be mindful of tangles and mats. Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils, keeping the coat healthy and shiny. Remember, a well-groomed coat provides better protection against the winter elements. If you do keep your dog’s coat a bit longer, consider increasing their grooming schedule to make sure it is well-maintained and free of irritants.
Health Signs to Look Out For
The winter months bring their own fresh set of potential health hazards that pet owners need to be aware of and remain on the lookout for. For instance, frozen bodies of water in your neighborhood or in the woods might seem like tempting playgrounds for dogs, but they can pose a significant risk. Ice may not be as solid as it appears, leading to very dangerous situations. Another potential hazard is antifreeze, a compound commonly used in winter to prevent the water in vehicles from freezing, which can be fatal if left out and ingested by dogs. Always ensure your pet doesn’t have access to areas where antifreeze has been used, and promptly clean up any spills. Additionally, the biting winter winds can be harsh on your dog’s exposed skin. Consider shorter outdoor activities during extreme cold spells to avoid potential frostbite.
Caring well for your dog in the winter demands a thoughtful approach. By adjusting our walking routines, modifying grooming practices, and being vigilant about potential hazards, we can ensure that our furry companions stay happy, healthy, and safe throughout the colder months. The experts at petbar are here to help with any skin or fur questions that may arise as temperatures begin to drop, or any other questions you have about how to protect and support your furry friends as winter approaches. Contact us at any time.
