It will be winter be for you know it. Winter brings with it many challenges for your dog. Most of these challenges come in the form of freezing weather. Your dog has to fight through snow, ice, and sleet each year. Avoid making these five common mistakes and winter won’t be nearly as hard on your dog this year.
- You didn’t prepare your dog for the winter months. In previous years you would have had to put on your heavy coats and boots. This is not necessary in the winter months and you are just asking for trouble and your dog will pay the price. If you aren’t comfortable putting on coats and other winter gear, then you certainly don’t need a dog.
- You didn’t have a good winter weather plan in place. No plan B should include taking short breaks and sticking to the same schedule. Dogs, like humans, get bored just like we do. Change up the schedule and the amount of time you take naps every day to allow your dog a few happy hours outside. Don’t be surprised if he starts peeing on your Davenport Carpet or chewing on your furniture, simply out of boredom.
- You didn’t prepare your dog for the extreme temperatures. Those winter temperatures can cause your dog to burn his pads. A puppy is just like a young child. They are inquisitive and have to see what’s going on outside. They cannot communicate that they are getting cold and need to take a break. It is your responsibility to keep your dog warm and to make sure that they have proper shelter from the elements. This is a time to follow your dog’s bathroom habits. Keep him out of the elements as much as you can.
- You didn’t lock up properly. If you have a back yard or enclosed area, make sure it is secure and keep your dog out of the yard until it is completely snowed over. If you let your dog out when it is excessively snowing or giving him too much time to get out, you are setting him up for failure!
- You didn’t give your dog a proper amount of exercise. Exercise will get him up and running before he even starts to snow. He needs to be outside with you, playing and running to keep his muscles strong and joints mobile. This is essential to his long term health and well being. He will be much more relaxed and less stressed out when he is used to running or playing daily.
So, how are you keeping your dog warm this winter? One option is to purchase a dog coat. They come in a wide range of colors, styles and sizes. Choose the one that suits his personality, size and activities. You will keep him warm and comfortable so that he can enjoying winter activities with you.
Before purchasing any dog coat for your pooch, consider a couple of important points. You should know that dog coats fall into two main categories; waterproof ones and calmer ones. Whichever one you choose, you should always keep in mind that your dog is going to get wet. Whichever coat you purchase, you should always check on it every couple of days. You don’t want it to malfunction or get wet. When you are outside playing, you want your pup to be dry so that he can continue to play without getting cold.
These are some important points to keep in mind when you are out enjoying the snow with your pup. You will definitely be glad you did!