We can easily find jackets, knit caps, and shoes to keep warm and dry during the winter. What about our dogs, though? Some canines can maintain their warmth without much assistance from us. Consider Siberian huskies, as an illustration – other canines not really. In three feet of snow, a Chihuahua won’t last very long. Nothing you can do will make a Chihuahua immune to the cold like a Siberian Husky. There are many things you can do to assist, though. For tried-and-true tips for keeping any dog warm in the cold outdoors, continue reading below.
Protect Paws
When something is placed on a dog’s feet, many of them aren’t really delighted. Therefore, you must introduce boots to your dog gradually and positively if you want her to wear them in the winter. In fact, some dogs express discomfort when their feet are handled. If that applies to your dog, focus on fixing that before introducing her to the boots. Your dog might not want to walk in the boots even after she feels comfortable having her feet touched and the boots placed on. That’s because a dog has to become used to wearing boots, which is not a natural experience for them.
Sweater
Although they may seem goofy on dogs, jackets and sweaters can be highly practical. Many dogs lack the fur coat that certain dogs have, which allows them to survive cold temperatures and wick moisture away. A dog winter coat can act as a windbreaker, shielding your pet from the cold and damp, and it can add an extra layer of insulation to keep your dog warmer for longer. You can purchase a coat with a built-in dog harness.
Outdoor Tips
Anytime a dog is exposed to the elements for an extended amount of time, adequate shelter is required. A straightforward plastic dog house won’t do. You require a material that can endure snow and ice while retaining the body heat of your dog inside. The best choice is a dog house with insulation. These are easily buildable by you or can be bought commercially. If it gets chilly where you live, it would be best to add a heater to this house. Avoid heaters that aren’t automated or that get hot to the touch. On a 50 degree day, you don’t want the heater to be on all the time. To promote drainage, the doghouse’s top should be angled. A flat roof will accumulate snow and could eventually cave in, which is the last thing you want when your dog is inside. Make sure the front entrance is just big enough for the dog to fit in and that it is situated away from the direction of the wind. The purpose of the shelter will be defeated by a large door that lets in a lot of the chilly outside air.
Extra Bedding
Hay and straw make an excellent insulator, which is why dog houses used to be filled with them in the past. You might also want to think about including some plush blankets. But we advise putting these on top of hay or straw. They provide better insulation. Additionally, replacing the straw as it gets soiled is simple. Regularly check it for moisture and mold. Change it more frequently than you believe is necessary. If your dog is using hay as insulation, it needs to be of the highest quality.
