How To Take Care Of The Dog In Winter

When the first colds arrive, we all rush to take precautions so that the low temperatures affect us as little as possible. Even for animals they must be taken, so today we will talk to you about how to take care of your animals during the winter.

The animals and the cold

Except for a few cold-resistant breeds such as Nordic dogs, dogs suffer the effects of lowering temperatures like people. So, take care of your 4-legged friend during the winter.

Pay particular attention to dogs suffering from some disease, especially those of respiratory origin,  or if they are:

• Puppies
• Adults or the elderly
• Small in size
• Short-haired

Good nutrition to take care of your dog in the winter

A nutritious, balanced and good quality diet is essential for both people and animals to stay healthy. So, during the winter season, provide your furry friend with food (homemade or bought) suitable for his weight, age and characteristics. 

A well-fed dog will enjoy high immune defenses and the chances of getting sick will be less. But don’t confuse quality with quantity. Don’t feed your dog too much, or he’ll get fat. The negative consequences of obesity are also many for animals.

Also,  given the likelihood that your dog will reduce outdoor physical activities during the winter, be careful about how much food you put in the bowl. If you have any doubts about the suitable amount indicated, ask your veterinarian for advice.

Pay attention during walks or animals that live in the garden

The best thing would be for the dog to spend most of his time indoors during the winter. But if you want him to stay out, give him adequate protection. Get him a kennel that protects him from humidity, rain and cold.

Also try to plan your outings at times when it is less cold and, on days when temperatures are particularly low, reduce the time of walks. Always cover it up, and keep a raincoat less within reach in case of rain or snow.

The most important thing is to avoid sudden changes in temperature. It is not good for the animal to move from a warm environment to the outside without any type of protection.

Other precautions to take into consideration during the winter

The hair is one of the main defenses that the dog has against the cold. So, if you had come up with the idea of ​​taking it to shear, wait for spring. Do not forget, however, to brush it to eliminate dead hair, so as to keep it well cared for.

Bathe him in warm places away from drafts. If you can handle it, use a hair dryer to dry it, so that it doesn’t stay wet for too long. And if you notice that the tip of the nose and fingertips are cracked due to the cold, ask your vet for a product to use in these cases.

Before winter comes, take him to the vet and check that he’s okay with his vaccinations and that he doesn’t have parasites. It is very important that your dog is protected against canine cough, which could cause many other more serious diseases.