If you are feeling cold, then chances are your dog is also feeling the same.

Dogs have in recent times become a favorite pet among many homeowners. Just as other pets, dogs need tender loving care too to be comfortable and healthy. Adverse weather conditions like rains, extreme winds and winter snowing, affects dogs as much as they affect us. Many people ignore this simple fact and assume that just because dogs have fur, they don’t need shelter from the cold weather. It may be hard to know how cold is too cold for your dog as there are many breeds, with each kind reacting differently to these weather conditions.

The simple tip is using common sense and going with your gut. If you are feeling cold, then chances are your dog is also feeling the same. You are your dog’s best advocate if you have second thoughts just follow your heart.

Prolonged exposure to extremely low temperatures risks your dog contracting hypothermia. Hypothermia manifests itself in constant shivering, trouble in breathing, inaudible heartbeats, and general body weakness. All these symptoms are dependent on the severity of the condition. If you come across any of these symptoms, it is advisable to take your dog to your local pet

• Always keep your dog warm and toasty

The cold comes with its undesired discomforts. If your dog happens to be outside during snow, once inside wrap them in a dry towel and remove snow from the body and feet. Keep the dog warm and cozy in bed to avoid the itchy and flaky skin. Avoid shaving your dog during the cold and dry them completely after bathing them. Minimize bathing as much as possible as regular washing will get rid of essential oils responsible for protecting the dog against developing dry, flaky skin. The fur will provide more warmth. If your dog, however, is long haired, a proper trimming will help in reducing clinging salt crystals, ice balls and de-icing chemicals notorious for drying the skin.

• Keep your dog indoors during the cold season

Keeping your dog indoors is a no brainer if it’s cold for you, it’s cold for your four-legged members of your family too. It’s very inconsiderate and inhumane to leave your dog outside while you are enjoying the warmth of your fireplace alone. Provide your dog with a reliable protection against the wind. If your dog stays in a shelter, ensure that it is off the ground to minimize heat loss. Reduce your outdoor walks with your dogs at these times as this may increase chances of your dog having frostbite and hypothermia. Parts that are highly susceptible to cold are ears, nose, and paws.

• Buy your dog a jacket and boots

The winter extremities may be harsh, and a warm jacket with a turtleneck may just be what your dog needs. There are many brands and styles currently on sale, and it’s your responsibility to pick up the right jacket for your dog. You can ask for assistance from your local pet store. Apart from feeling good, it will also make your dog look good too.

Dog paws risk getting cracks and frostbite when exposed to cold weather. Fortunately for you, this should not cause any worries with the broad range of dog boots available. Just like jackets, there are many sizes, brands, colors and designs of dog boots that you can purchase to take care of this problem.

• Provide your dog with enough food and water

The cold season takes a huge toll on the dog because keeping warm requires more energy. Feeding your dog with more food during these conditions gives the dog the much-needed calories. Change water often and make sure the water is always fresh and unfrozen if the shelter happens to be outdoors. It is recommended to use a plastic bowl as opposed to a metal one. Enough water makes sure that the dog is well-hydrated and reduces instances of dry skin.

•  Never leave your dog in the car during winter!

Cars interiors can be freezing during this season which is very dangerous. They act as refrigerators and hold in the very cold temperatures which are harmful both to you and your dog.

Conclusion

Most dogs love playing and spending time outside outdoors, but this can be a challenge during winter and cold weather. You can still both have fun outside by taking the necessary precautions that involve keeping your dog warm. People prepare for winter by stocking up food, getting ready for power outages, and buying warm clothing and bedding. You should include your dog in this plan.