As the temperature drops and winter sets in, our canine companions face a unique set of challenges. For them, cold is not only picturesque snowfalls and pleasant evenings. But it also marks the start of a season where they face many health risks.
As pet owners, it is our responsibility to ensure that winters are comfortable for them. Despite the challenges posed by nature, we should be able to help them cope and enjoy winters as comfortably as we do.
This guide aims to help you with that. Here, we’ll explore eight ways cold weather can impact your dog’s well-being and explore preventative measures to ensure their health and happiness throughout the cold months.
1. Frostbite
One of the most serious threats dogs face in freezing weather is frostbite. Similar to its impact on humans, frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze, usually in the extremities such as the ears, tail and legs. Dogs with thinner coats or those unaccustomed to the cold are particularly vulnerable.
Here are some signs and symptoms of frostbite in dogs:
- Pale or grayish skin in affected areas
- Cold or brittle to the touch
- Pain or discomfort when touched
- Swelling and blisters in severe cases
To prevent frostbite or care for your dog during frostbite, here is what you can do:
- Limit time spent outdoors in extremely cold weather
- Provide warm, dry shelter
- Equip your dog with protective clothing, such as jackets and booties
- Inspect your dog’s extremities regularly for signs of frostbite
- Consult a veterinarian if you suspect frostbite for proper treatment
By taking proactive steps, you can help protect your dogs from the dangers of frostbite during the winter months.
2. Hypothermia
Although frostbite primarily affects the extremities, hypothermia is a broader and potentially fatal problem that occurs when a dog’s body temperature drops below normal. This can occur due to prolonged exposure to cold, wet fur, or windy conditions.
Certain breeds (like the Yorkshire Terrier and other toy breeds), older dogs, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk of developing hypothermia.
Common symptoms of hypothermia are:
- Chills
- Slowed or labored movements
- Weakness or lethargy
- Cold ears and feet
- Muscle stiffness
Here is how to prevent and treat this disease:
- Provide a warm, insulated dog bed or blanket indoors
- Limit time spent outdoors in extremely cold weather
- Use dog jackets or sweaters to retain body heat
- Dry your dog thoroughly after exposure to rain or snow
- If your dog is prone to hypothermia, consider specialized accommodations like dog boarding arrangements that prioritize warmth and comfort.
If hypothermia is suspected, it is best to consult a veterinarian quickly. Gradual warming, warm blankets, and supportive care from a veterinarian can ease the recovery process and prevent further complications.
3. Joint stiffness
In cold weather, dogs, especially older ones or those who have arthritis, may feel increased stiffness in their joints. The cold can lead to joint pain and make basic movements quite difficult for your dog.
Regular, gentle exercise, warm bedding, and joint supplements can help relieve stiffness. We also recommend that you consult a veterinarian for appropriate care to ensure your dog’s comfort and mobility during the winter.
4. Slippery surfaces
It’s common for dogs to slip on icy or wet surfaces in the winter. This can lead to injuries that negatively impact joints or cause strain.
To mitigate this risk, consider using paw-friendly de-icers, providing traction mats, or using dog booties for added traction. Additionally, use caution when walking and choose routes with less slippery terrain to protect your dog from accidental slips and falls.
5. Skin irritation
Cold weather can also cause dry, itchy skin for dogs. Basically, low humidity and cold winds strip away natural oils, which, in turn, causes discomfort.
To resolve this issue, you may consider:
- Regular grooming (including brushing to remove dead skin and hair)
- Moisturize with dog-safe products
- Adjusting Your Dog’s Diet to Include Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Consult a veterinarian for personalized skin care recommendations
These will help maintain a healthy, irritation-free coat during the winter.
Cold weather causes dogs to burn more calories to maintain their body temperature. This means they have higher energy requirements during winters. To remedy this, rework your dog’s diet. Offer them nutrient-dense foods to help them cope. For best advice, consult your veterinarian. They will help meet your dog’s specific nutritional needs during cold weather.
Note that changes in metabolism can also impact your dog’s weight. They may lose a few pounds or gain a few more. Although small gains or losses are acceptable, massive and sudden gains or losses can be dangerous to your health. So make sure to monitor their weight carefully and take prompt action in case of a massive fluctuation.
Additionally, dogs naturally drink less water in cold weather. This decrease in water intake can lead to dehydration, as the need for hydration remains constant, regardless of temperature. Pet owners need to be proactive and ensure their dogs have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
7. Fluctuation in body temperature
Dogs, like humans, rely on a complex thermoregulation system to maintain a constant body temperature. Cold weather can disrupt this process and cause fluctuations that can impact your dog’s health. Be sure to learn about the signs of temperature stress and how to create a comfortable environment for your canine companion.
Here are some common ways to handle this situation:
- Invest in dog coats and jackets
- Limit exposure outdoors
- Adjust diet and hydration
- Provide comfortable bedding and pet-friendly heating pads
- Increase exercise time during winters
These will ensure a healthy balance in body fluctuations and ensure a stable body temperature.
8. Exposure to Toxins
During the winter months, antifreeze is commonly used. We do not recommend using it as it poses a serious threat due to its attractive taste – leading to potential poisoning.
Additionally, de-icing chemicals on sidewalks and roads, toxic winter plants and berries, and mold growth in humid conditions can contribute to health risks for dogs. Additionally, frozen bodies of water can present hazards, and snow removal equipment can pose risks if not handled carefully.
To protect their canine companions, pet owners must be vigilant, use animal-friendly alternatives, clean paws thoroughly after walks, and ensure a toxin-free environment both indoors and outdoors.
Last words
Responsible pet care is a year-round commitment. From monitoring body temperature to protecting against toxins, it’s your responsibility to keep pets healthy. Put the above tips into practice and enjoy winter walks with interactive indoor games. These will stimulate your dog’s mind, promoting their mental and physical health.