Keeping Your Dog Safe In The Winter

When the weather gets to freezing temperatures in the winter all dogs need a little extra care to stay healthy and warm. 

Whether your dog loves to go out on big adventures or they like quick little walks, there are many dangers and health concerns to our dogs when it is cold. 

So here is some advice on how to keep your dog safe in the winter.

Health Issues in Dogs and How to Spot the Symptoms 

Frost Bite

When dogs are exposed to extremely low temperatures they run the risk of freezing their paws, ears and tail.

Symptoms of frost bite include pale skin due to lack of blood flow. Ice may form around the damaged area which can be painful to touch. 

When the body warms up and blood flow returns, the skin can become ulcerated, swollen and painful.   

However, if frostbite worsens skin can turn black and even slough.

This is a concern for all dogs, frost bite can be life threatening and can lead to hypothermia.

Hypothermia 

Hypothermia means an abnormally low body temperature, a dog’s normal body temperature should be between 38.3oC to 39.2oC and anything under 37.8oC is considered hypothermic.

Mild symptoms of hypothermia in dogs can range from paleness of skin, shivering and/or cold feet and ears.

As hypothermia becomes sever symptoms will also worsen such as muscle stiffness, not responding to stimuli, lethargy, inaudible heartbeat, dilated pupils and difficulty breathing.

Hypothermia can be life threatening if left untreated leading to coma, heart failure and death.

Hypothermia and frost bite can be caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, and from wet fur and skin. 

Both of these are serious health concerns to all dogs and so it is important that we protect them in the winter months by keeping them warm and dry.

Dangers to Dogs in the Cold Months

Antifreeze

The smell and taste of antifreeze is appetising to dogs. However, antifreeze is highly poisonous to our dogs!

The smallest drop can be fatal so keep these containers locked away and clean up any spillages immediately.

Dogs may get antifreeze on their paws while out on a walk and they may be tempted to lick it off so make sure to clean their paws as soon as you get back home!  

Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning in dogs includes vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy, trouble walking and rapid heart rate.

Road Salt/Grit

Road salt and grit that is used to de-ice roads in the winter can cause thirst, lethargy and vomiting, and in severe cases it can cause kidney damage if ingested.

Grit/road salt can also cause irritation and burns between your dog’s toes which can be quite painful so again, make sure to clean your dog’s paws after a walk.

Black Ice and Frozen Water

Your dog may love playing out in the snow however, just like us, they are likely to slip and cause injury to themselves. 

Be extra careful and keep an eye out for slippery areas and keep your dog on a lead when the weather is really bad. Especially older dogs or dogs that have health problems such as arthritis, hip and elbow dysplasia.

Tips to Protect your Dog in the Winter

Temperature

Dogs with thick fur may not need a coat/sweater to keep them warm when but smaller breeds that have thin fur may need an extra layer to keep them warm when on winter walks. 

Remember, coats will not stop frostbite of their feet, ears or tail.

Make sure to towel dry your dog and rub them down whenever you come back from a walk especially if the weather has been damp.

Some dogs may react to the cold in different ways, and as the temperature drops some breeds may handle the cold weather better than others. 

However, be aware that sometimes the temperature can get too cold for any dog and can be dangerous if they spend prolonged amounts of time outdoors.

Here is a table which tells you when the weather is too dangerous for your dog:

More Calories and Hydration

You may want to consider giving larger portions of food in the winter because when dogs are cold they tend to move around more and shiver to keep warm which burns calories.

You can adjust their calorie intake accordingly.

Also keep your dog hydrated as this will stop the cold weather from drying out their skin so make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water.

Beds and Heating

You do not need your heating on full but your dog will appreciate having a warm bed to curl up in. You can also give them a couple of extra blankets to help keep them warmer.

Remember to keep their beds way from any chilly or damp areas.

Paw Care and Grooming

Paw care is a must!

Not only can dogs get toxins on their paws, but the cold weather and ice can cause foot cracks. Some dogs may even suffer from cracked pads; if they do then you can apply coconut oil to stop them from drying out.

If your dog has furry feet then trim the fur to prevent ice build up between their pads.

If your dog shows any discomfort when walking on icy or salted surfaces then you can consider using dog boots to protect their feet.

keeping your dog’s coat well groomed will help to keep them insulated. This is important if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors.

When you bath your dog in the winter always make sure to dry your dog off thoroughly before letting them outside.

If your dog’s skin gets quite dry in the winter then you can use coconut oil as a moisturiser. You can also add extra oils into their food.

Do Not Leave Your Dog Unattended in a Car

Just like the summer when the temperatures can get too hot, it is just as unsafe to leave your dog alone in a car during the winter because temperatures can get dangerously low. 

It is always best to keep them at home where it is safe.

Senior Dogs and Arthritis

Winter conditions can cause concern for older dogs and can intensify some medical issues, arthritis in particular.

Exercise routines are important for dogs with arthritis so make sure to keep an eye out for slippery surfaces.

Adding joint supplements to their food will keep their joints lubricated and to help ease discomfort. Some supplements include green lipped muscle, turmeric, manganese and glucosamine.

Keep these winter care tips in mind and pay close attention to your best friend’s well being. If you have any concerns always contact a vet.

Keeping them warm and comfortable will help both of you to enjoy the winter months together.