Winter Dog Care

While winter weather may be beautiful, it can be deadly to your outside dog. It is always best to keep your pets inside of your home, but it is vital to their survival during the cold winter months. Each year, many dogs that are left outside come down with illnesses or pass away due to cold weather conditions. If you do keep your dog outside, here are some things to keep in mind this winter.

Always be sure to provide your dog with a shelter outside. Take care to provide the right size of shelter for your dog’s specific needs. He should be able to comfortably stand inside of the shelter. However, keep the shelter small enough so it is able to prevent cold drafts and retain your dog’s own body heat. Ensure that the shelter prevents wind and precipitation from getting into your dog.

Provide some sort of flooring option, instead of requiring your dog to lie on the cold and often frozen ground. It is best to build a floor for your dog and then to cover it with bedding. Use soft wood chips and provide old blankets or towels for your dog’s bed. The floor and bedding will help to keep him warm and comfortable through the cold.

Also be sure to maintain a fresh water supply for your dog. The water in your dog’s bowl may freeze in the winter. It is important that you check it regularly, breaking the ice and providing fresh water when necessary. Dogs always need fresh water in order to survive.

Along with providing plenty of water, consider increasing your dog’s food intake. The extra food will add an extra layer of warmth to your dog’s body. Talk to your veterinarian to best gage how to alter your dog’s diet for the winter months.

Monitor the weather throughout the winter. Remember to always take note of the wind chill. While the outside temperature may be reasonable, a low wind chill can do serious damage to those who are outdoors.

It is in your dog’s best interest to spend the winter indoors. Even if you routinely leave him outside, consider at the very least allowing him into the garage at night or in extreme conditions. Remember to take extra good care of your beloved dog this winter. His survival depends on your efforts.