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 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.
