Winter is coming, and with it, cold weather and snow. This can be a challenging time for our furry friends as they are susceptible to colds, arthritis, or other ailments that come along with the colder temperatures. However, you can take some simple precautions to ensure your dog stays healthy throughout the winter months. In this article, there will be a list of ways you can keep your dogs healthy this winter, as well as a few tips on what not to do.
Limit Outdoor Time In The Winter
To keep your dog from being exposed to the cold, try keeping them indoors during the worst of winter. Keep in mind that these tips are for dogs with a moderate amount of fur on their paws and belly. If your dog is one with short hair or very fluffy fur, it will not handle as much cold. The winter months are hard on dogs because they are not used to the cold weather. While you don’t want to take your dog out all of the time, it is still essential to get some exercise every day.
Get A Cozy Bed
One way to prevent your dog from catching a cold is by keeping them warm. If they are cold, their body will try and heat itself, which can cause a lot of issues. A bed that is a bit warmer than the room it is in will be beneficial for keeping them warm during the winter months. You can also use bedding to help keep them extra warm. Having a dog bed specifically for the winter could be a good idea.
Be Careful Around Ice
Dogs are good at finding ways to get hurt, so you must stay on the lookout for ice patches or slippery floors during winter. If you notice ice near your dog, be sure to use extreme caution around it just in case they skid or slip. You can outfit your dog in booties or other things to help with traction if it is a recurring problem in the area you live.
Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Water is essential for our dogs, and most will need more water in the winter than they do in the summer. Make sure you are giving them plenty of freshwater throughout the day to ensure they can flush out any toxins and keep their body temperature regulated. Keeping your dog hydrated will not only keep them healthy but will also help keep their fur stay shiny and clean. It’s easy to overdo it with the water, though, so make sure you observe their intake.
Exercise
All dogs need exercise, but you must be keeping your dog active during the winter. This can take the form of walks, jogs, playing inside, or just giving them extra time outside. Just make sure they do not get too cold while exercising and check on them often. They can even get a winter workout by playing in the snow. Exercise will help keep your dog healthy and ensure they do not gain weight from being cooped up during the winter months.
