8 tips in the cold
It can get really cold in the winter – and although the weather offers a lot of joy and long ski trips for both two- and four-legged friends, we unfortunately also see animals that get various cold injuries. For example, frostbite on the scrotum is something we see a lot of – and it is a painful experience for the dog. Dogs often come in with frostbite and general hypothermia – and in rare cases with gangrene that requires quick action. Do you want to know how to best take care of your dog in the winter cold? Here are the veterinarian's 8 tips for protecting your dog in the cold.
Table of contents
Your dog needs warm and windproof clothing – here are 8 tips for the cold!
What kind of coat does your dog have?
Some dog breeds only have cover hair and thus lack undercoat. These dogs are naturally a little less hardy in cold weather than others. If the temperature drops below five degrees below zero, they should wear suitable clothing when going out for a walk.
How big is your dog?
Remember that small dogs can tolerate less cold than a large dog. Most dogs do well without clothes on short walks – but if you are going on a long walk you should consider both warm and windproof clothing. Don’t forget that the clothing must cover the stomach area – the fur is often thinner here than elsewhere. This means that you shouldn’t use the blanket – but instead invest in a proper winter suit that keeps the stomach area nice and warm.
Does the dog refuse to go outside?
Then you should take it as a sign that he is freezing!
Remember that puppies and older dogs must be looked after extra carefully!
The puppy's coat is not fully developed – this means that puppies need to be looked after extra well in the winter cold! Also remember that older dogs are more sensitive to cold winter weather – they may have a low metabolism – which makes heat production worse.
Does the dog also have stiff joints, hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis? Then the strong cold can make it extra painful to move outside. Keep an eye on your dog to see if he refuses the cold!
Invest in a pouch warmer for your dog
Scrotum warmers are a good investment for male dogs that are active and spend a lot of time in the snow. The scrotum of male dogs has little hair – and is especially vulnerable to cold and wear and tear when running in the snow. Scrotum warmers are designed so that the dog can urinate without getting wet – it is therefore a good solution if you are often out on longer ski trips. Alternatively, you can lubricate the scrotum with anhydrous Vaseline – but it will not protect as well against the cold.
Wear paw socks!
Cold can seriously damage your dog's paws. A lot of cold and snow creates cracks – which can then become inflamed. Remember that the slush that often occurs in cities is a brine – it can be very painful for small, unprotected paws! Is there a lot of salt in your hiking area? Then you should always wear paw socks! The same applies to long ski trips. Alternatively, you can use a paw wax where the grease protects the paws from the surface.
Take care of the claws!
In winter, you should pay extra attention to your dog's claws. When your dog walks on snow, their claws are less worn down than in the summer. It is therefore important that you trim them regularly. The claws also tend to become a little extra dry and cracked in winter - then it is good to apply Jojoba oil to the claws a few times a week. We also recommend that you trim the fur around the pads of the feet to avoid ice clumps forming.
Use a warm surface
Remember that dogs freeze more easily when they are lying down or standing still. You must therefore avoid letting your dog lie alone in cars for long periods of time or lie directly on snow when it is really cold outside! A good surface – such as sheepskin – can work wonders.
If the dog becomes chilled, it can lead to major injuries in the worst case - keep an eye on your dog regularly to see if he is doing well. If the skin is sore, swollen or shows color changes, there is danger on the way. Then you should see a vet right away!
Dry dogs are hot dogs
Wet dogs freeze more easily than dry dogs. We therefore do not recommend that the dog bathe outside in winter - then they quickly become cold and cannot dry off until they are back in the warmth.
Use a long leash on your dog near rivers, streams and water in the winter. This will help you stop your dog before he jumps into the water and gets a real cold shower. A long leash can also prevent your dog from walking through the ice.
Even dogs need scarves!
Did you know that certain dog breeds are particularly prone to skin damage on the ear lobes? We watch it often Rhodesian Ridgeback (NKK.no) – but other dog breeds can also be at risk. Something as simple as a headscarf can protect the ears in cold and acidic weather!
