WINTER DOG CARE
Here in Maryland, we don't usually have to worry about temperature extremes, at least not prolonged episodes, anyway! But we still have to make some adjustments for our indoor dogs in the winter. The first thing you may assume is that your dog could use a little extra weight to stay warm in the winter. While it is true that outdoor dogs definitely have higher caloric needs in colder weather, most pet dogs do not live outside. In fact, most of our indoor dogs have reduced activity in the winter, and therefore may actually need less food to maintain a healthy weight!
When it comes to outdoor activity in the cold or bad weather, pet dogs vary greatly in their drive to get out there. From those who have to be forced out just to do their business, to those who dive into snow drifts and swim in freezing rivers, your dog may fall somewhere in between. If your dog has a short or thin coat of hair, or seems particularly sensitive to the cold, your dog may be more comfortable in a sweater or jacket. For indoor use, sweaters and fleece options abound, and for outdoor use, insulated and non-insulated jackets, coats and horse-blanket styles are available. Make sure to have several, because a wet coat will make your dog much colder. If your dog is very reluctant to walk outside when it's cold and wet, boots may be the answer, but some dogs won't walk in them at all and are experts at shaking them off!
When walking your dog in the winter, there are some specific hazards to watch for. The paws are particularly vulnerable to cracking from salts and can be cut by ice. When you return from walks, be sure to wipe off your dog's paws, legs, and belly, so that they do not end up licking off any of the road salt or other contaminants they could have picked up. For your own sidewalk, use pet-friendly deicers. Bag Balm or a canine specific ointment may be used to moisturize and protect, and again, boots can come in handy here. Another hazard of winter walking can be frozen ponds. A dog may not recognize that they are out on ice, and if they fall through you may not be able to save them, and you may risk your own life if you attempt to.
Some dogs, like people, may suffer from dry skin in the winter. Using a skin and coat supplement such as salmon oil may help with this, as well as the use of humidifiers in the house to combat the dry air. Watch your dog carefully if they are obsessive about scratching and chewing- they could develop hot spots. Some medical conditions can be aggravated by colder temperatures as well. Dogs with certain medical conditions, as well as older dogs, can have difficulty maintaining their body temperature. Take extra care with your older or unwell dog in cold weather.
When you are preparing for an upcoming blizzard or winter storm where travel may become impossible and power outages may occur, be sure to include your dog in your plans. Make sure you have enough food, water and any medicine your dog needs to last for at least 5 days.
Lastly, make sure you know your dog. If your dog hates going outside in the winter, provide what comforts you can, and keep it brief. If both you and your dog love to get out there in the winter, by all means, you should! Pay attention to your dog. If it shows signs of being uncomfortable, such as shivering or seeking a place to burrow, it is time to go inside. If you don't like being outside in the winter, but your dog does, dog walking services may provide the exercise and stimulation your dog needs to beat the winter blues.