Winter Essentials for Your Dog - Tips to Keep Them Safe, Healthy, Happy, and Warm!
Winter is a magical season for many of us, with snowflakes, twinkling lights, and steaming cups of cocoa. But as the temperatures dip and the winds howl, our dogs may need extra care to stay healthy, happy, and warm. In this blog post, we'll share some essential items and tips to help you prepare your dog for winter, including drying towels, winter feeding, and flea and tick prevention. Winter also brings unique dangers for our dogs. As a dog owner, it’s important to be aware of the hazards that come with the colder weather and take precautions to keep your dog safe. Whether you're a new dog owner or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you keep your dog warm, safe and happy all season long.
1. Dog Drying Towels
Winter means snow and rain, which means wet dogs. Drying off your dog is important, not only to prevent them from getting sick but also to keep your home free of those pesky wet-dog smells. Invest in some high-quality dog drying towels that are absorbent and easy to use. Microfiber towels are a great option, as they are soft, durable, and quick-drying. Keep a few towels near the entrance of your home, so you can quickly dry off your dog when you return from your walks.
2. Winter Feeding for Your Dog
Your dog's nutritional needs may change during the winter months. Dogs who spend more time outdoors especially working dogs, may need extra calories to maintain their body weight and keep warm. Consider switching to a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein and fat, which will provide your dog with the energy they need to stay active and healthy. You can also add in some supplements, such as flaxseed oil, to help keep your dog's skin and coat healthy during the dry winter months. My Winter favourite to keep weight on my working dogs during a hard and strenuous few months is tripe which I add to their dinner along with their usual food.
3. Winter Flea and Tick Prevention
Think fleas and ticks are just summertime problems? Think again. These pesky critters can survive in colder temperatures and can still be a threat to your dog's health during the winter. Protect your dog by using a flea and tick preventative. I like to check my dogs over once a day after walks or working in the field, giving them a good thorough examination checking for cuts, thorns, grass seeds and of course ticks. Ensure you use the correct tools for tick removal
4. Winter Coats
Some dogs, especially those with short hair or a thin build, may struggle to stay warm during the winter months. Help them out by investing in a warm, snug-fitting coat that covers their body and protects them from the cold.
5. Indoor Exercises and Activities
While outdoor exercise is important year-round, it may be more difficult to find the motivation to head out for a walk when it's cold and windy. There are plenty of indoor exercises and activities you can do with your dog to keep them active and engaged, such as practicing obedience training or brushing up on some steadiness and heel work.
6. Frostbite and Hypothermia:
Just like humans, dogs are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia in colder temperatures. Dogs with thinner fur or shorter hair are more susceptible to these conditions. Signs of frostbite include red or gray skin, blistering, and swelling. Hypothermia, on the other hand, manifests itself as shivering, lethargy, and low body temperature. It's important to keep your dog warm during colder days.
7. Salt and Chemicals on Pavements:
During the winter, it's common for roads, sidewalks, and driveways to be covered in salt, antifreeze, and other hazardous chemicals. These substances can cause serious harm to your dog if ingested or if they come into contact with the skin. One way to avoid this issue is to make sure your dog stays on the grassy areas when going for walks. It's also essential to wipe your dogs paws with a damp towel after walks.
8. Frozen Water:
As the temperature drops, it's typical for water in outdoor bowls to freeze. Your dog needs access to fresh water, so make sure to check throughout the day to ensure that there's still drinkable water outside.
9. Holiday Decorations:
Many people like to decorate their homes with festive décor during the winter months, but it's important to make sure that these decorations are safe for your dog. Candles, electric lights, and heaters can all pose risks to your dog. Keep these decorations out of reach, and always supervise your pet during holiday festivities.
Winter can be a challenging season for both dogs and their owners, but with a little planning and preparation, you can help keep your dogs safe, healthy, happy, and warm. From dog drying towels, winter coats, winter flea and tick prevention and indoor exercises and activities, these tips will help you and your dog enjoy winter to the fullest. Stay warm and have fun!