Image Credits: Pixabay
If your dog is one that loves spending time outdoors, then you should be aware that being outdoors for too long can make your canine cold, especially during winters. Even if your dog loves to stay indoors, he could still get cold.
Whether you are indoors or outdoors, it is important to keep your dog sufficiently warm for his own health and safety.
Which Dogs Need Protection from Cold?
All dogs need protection from cold. Thick-furred, dark-coated, fatter, and hairy dogs may not be as vulnerable to cold as their thinner and less furry and hairy counterparts. But they still need protection from the cold.
Dogs with short hair, puppies, and tiny dogs always need extra protection from the cold. Factors such as age and health also affect your dog's ability to withstand cold. Sick dogs, very young dogs, and aged dogs do not have the physical capability to maintain their body temperatures and, therefore, need extra protection.
It is essential to know if your dog is showing signs of cold so that you can take appropriate action immediately.
Some signs that indicate that your dog might be cold:
Your Dog is Shivering and Trembling
Shaking, trembling, and shivering are common signs that indicate your dog might be cold. Your dog's body reacts in the above ways to keep itself warm. Take your dog indoors to see if it helps.
Your Dog Feels Cold Around the Ears and in the Body
This is the fastest way to know if your dog is cold. Touch your dog around his ears, especially along the edges and underneath the fur and coat. If he feels cold to the touch, he is probably feeling cold. Touch the belly region and check if it is warm. If the area is cold, then your dog is cold. Take him indoors immediately.
Your Dog is Unusually Lethargic
If your dog is showing unusual laziness and is slow-moving outdoors, then cold could be a likely reason. Cold temperatures weaken your dog's body, making it stiff, tired, and slow-moving. If your dog is keener on curling up than on running and playing, then he could be trying to warm himself up. Take him indoors immediately.
Your Dog is Abnormally Sleepy
Sleepiness can be an initial sign of hypothermia. If your dog is showing unusual signs of sleepiness, then perhaps he is feeling extremely cold. Symptoms of hypothermia could just be setting in. Get your dog indoors immediately and warm him up. Otherwise, he may start experiencing difficulty in breathing and moving.
Your Dog is Hiding or Desperately Seeking Shelter
If your dog seems to be desperately seeking shelter under or behind something, then he is probably cold and is trying to warm himself up. Take him indoors immediately.
Get your Dog Warm
Massage your dog's body by rubbing it side-to-side and up and down to get him warm. Cover him with blankets and switch on the heater.
Your dog will still need to get outdoors for exercise and bathroom breaks. Go outside when temperatures are less cold. Outside temperatures above 450F are safe for a dog. Drape your dog in a winter dog coat when taking him outdoors.
By being an informed pet owner, you can be more responsible for your canine and protect him from preventable sickness.
Does Your Dog Need a Sweater in Cold Weather?
The question of dogs needing clothes is no laughing matter. Many dog owners have seen their dogs shiver from the cold in winter. They were afraid to buy clothes for their dogs as they thought that people will regard the dog-and by extension its master and mistress- as an odd animal. It is perfectly normal for a dog to wear clothes. Granted, dogs come with an external layering system. However, a few breeds have a lighter layer of fur and not genetically suited to cold hard winters.
Dogs that need a coat
Little dogs are the obvious choice for needing a coat. Toy terriers and chihuahuas are much less equipped to deal with cold temperatures. Other susceptible breeds include short-haired canines like Greyhounds, which also need an external coat. They will enjoy daily walks more if their owners have wrapped something around them. Dog coats can be compulsory if you live in a place where the mercury dips below zero. It becomes vital if your dog loves to play outside the house. A coat is a necessity when a dog recuperates from an injury or an illness and is sensitive to colder weather. This is specifically applicable to puppies and older dogs. However, sweaters should not be bought for long-haired canines as they are better suited to survive dips in temperatures.
Choosing a dog coat
These are available in a number of materials. Fleece and wool are the most popular. If you reside in a snowy area, it would be better for you to buy water-resistant fabrics. Ensure that you buy a fabric that is easy to maintain. The sweater should fit the dog snugly and must cover the stomach of the dog completely- the only exception being if it's a male dog- and must end at the tail base. The legs must be kept free so that it may run and walk. Do not opt for coats with full-length sleeves. Dogs find it harder to adapt to them and may not feel comfortable. Before buying the coat, give it a trail on your dog so that it fits comfortably. A majority of sweaters are sold in four small sizes: medium, large size, and extra-large ones. A handy guide to what your dog will wear is that toy breeds tend to wear extra small. The small size is worn by Beagles, and Retrievers wear large sizes. Bigger dogs tend to be covered with extra-large sweaters or coats. Do know that dogs can wear only sweaters and jackets. Pants cannot be worn. You must verify that your dog has enough freedom of movement around the neck. The pieces must be easily put on and taken off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs feel cold at night?
Yes, dogs can feel cold at night, especially in winter. Like humans, dogs can experience a drop in body heat in cold weather, making them feel chilly. Short-haired breeds or dogs with thin coats are particularly susceptible to feeling cold. When a dog sleeps, it might shiver or seek warm spots to curl up if it lacks sufficient warmth. If you notice your furry friend shivering or curling up tightly, it could be an obvious sign that the dog is cold. To help keep your pet warm, consider using a blanket or a dog coat.
Is my dog cold in the house?
Observe their behavior and physical signs to determine if your dog is cold in the house. Dogs might show signs of feeling cold by shivering, seeking warm spots, or curling up tightly. Checking your dog's ears can also help; if the ears feel cold, it might indicate that your dog is feeling chilly. Extended periods of lying down and being extremely sleepy or lethargic can also be signs. Additionally, if your dog seems anxious or barks more than usual, they might be uncomfortable due to the cold. Ensuring a warm environment with adequate heating can help keep your dog comfortable.
How do you know if your dog is having a cold?
Knowing if your dog is having a cold involves observing symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, frequent licking of the nose, and watering eyes. Tiredness and lethargy are also common signs. If you notice these symptoms, take some preventive measures. Only take short walks to avoid overexertion, and ensure your dog is thoroughly toweled dry after being outside in wet weather. Providing plenty of rest is crucial during this time. Additionally, watch for signs of shivering, cold ears, and reluctance to walk, indicating that your pet is feeling cold. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a veterinarian to rule out more severe conditions like hypothermia or frostbite.
Do dogs like being covered with a blanket?
Many dogs love sleeping under the covers for various reasons, from instinctual behavior to comfort and entertainment. Burrowing into blankets can make them feel safe, like in a den. This behavior is especially common in colder weather, as it helps them retain body heat. Covering your dog with a blanket can provide extra warmth and comfort, especially for short-haired breeds or dogs with less natural insulation. However, it's important to monitor your dog's reaction. They might not enjoy it if they seem anxious or try to get out from under the blanket.
What temperature do dogs prefer?
Dogs generally prefer moderate temperatures, similar to humans, but specific preferences can vary based on breed and age. Large, long-haired dogs like Huskies or Samoyeds may be comfortable around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, while elderly short-haired pets might prefer temperatures around 78 degrees Fahrenheit. During winter months, it’s essential to provide adequate warmth for your dog, especially if they are short-haired or elderly. If your dog is shivering, curling up tightly, or seeking warm spots, they might be feeling cold. Ensuring a warm environment, using heaters or blankets, and monitoring their comfort levels can help keep your pet happy and healthy.
