Helping your dog cope this winter

 

With winter now upon us we need to remember that even with their wonderful coats, dogs still feel the cold. Breeds with shorter hair, very old or young dogs are most as risk of suffering from the elements during this time of year. Those with joint or circulation issues will feel winters bite too. By the time you think its too cold to stay out, it’s probably time to bring your dog in too.

Opt for a bed or layers that will insulate your dog against the cold which creeps up from the floor or ground and position away from drafts. Hygiene is a must so look for a product you can clean and hose off or with a removable cover you can pop in the washing machine.

If he sleeps outside he may need a kennel with insulation. Try to face the doorway away from prevailing winds. Each winter, a friend clips a square of blanket in the cutout doorway of her dogs kennel to help keep the cold out. Imagine her surprise when one morning ‘two’ dogs emerged from the kennel !   I guess the ‘drop-in’ enjoyed the privacy too.

If your dog wears a coat it is ideal to have a spare so you can rotate when one is in the wash or in case one gets damp. Check the fit when your dog is standing and lying. You need to be able to adjust so he can have a comfortable sleeping position and curl up. Going for something with a reflective stripe is helpful in case he’s ever out in the dark. Many coats offer a zipper or gap so you can attach a clip to a harness beneath. Any extra apparel your dog is wearing can get caught on things so you will need to keep an eye on them.

There is no need to increase your dog’s food intake in winter, even in really cold climates.   Please make sure if you have a heater or fireplace it doesn’t pose a danger to your pooch and remember that leaving a dog in a car poses risk even in winter.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)