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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 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 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 also need an external coat. They will
enjoy
daily walks
more if their owners have wrapped something around them. Dog
coats can be compulsory in case 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 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 dip 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 having full length sleeves. Dogs find it harder
to adapt in 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 sizes-small sizes, medium,
large size and the 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 Retriever 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.
