Cold Weather Tips for Dog Owners

It’s cold outside but that doesn’t mean you should be afraid to go out for a walk with your dog. Playing in the snow is great fun and you and your dog both may enjoy it. Most dogs tolerate the cold well. Exceptions are: puppies, short-haired and hairless dogs, old dogs, also breeds like Doberman, Boxer and Greyhounds are very sensitive to cold weather. On the other hand, there are breeds like Siberian Husky who can withstand very cold weather and they can even sleep outside at minus 30 degrees. It can also differ between dogs within the same breed but if the dog gradually gets used to the cold, it puts more undercoat and therefore becomes more resistant to cold temperature.

If you are not sure how long you can be outside, just take a look at your dog. As long as your dog is active during the walk, jogs around and seems to enjoy the winter weather, there is no reason to take a shorter round than you usually do.

Do not forget to use a reflective collar

On dark nights, make sure your dog is visible to passers-by and vehicles. You can do this by using a reflective collar. It is also important that you are wearing reflectors on your clothes. Reflective clothing can save lives by being visible at 140 metres when they are being hit by spotlights against approximately 20 metres without reflective clothing or accessories. 

Frostbite

Frostbite can also occur at very low temperatures, it can freeze their extremities (the tips of their ears, tail and paws). The skin can become very pale with a blue-white hue, due to the reduced blood flow, and ice can even form around the area. To prevent it from progressing and putting the local tissue at risk, apply a warm towel to the affected area.

Protect the paws

During wintertime, dogs are prone to foot injuries and paw irritation. Stepping on salt crystals or rocks hidden under the snow can be painful and result in cuts. To protect the paws and prevent cracks, a few hours before the walk apply beeswax on the paws, for example, Husse Tass Plus.