Once again we are pleased to welcome Cindy Aldrich of Our Dog Friends. Cindy is a freelance writer and dog lover. She started Our Dog Friends as a fun side project for herself and to educate pet owners and potential pet owners about how dogs can enrich our lives. She enjoys writing about dogs and pet ownership.We hope you will enjoy her lastest article written exclusively for us. Thank you Cindy!
Winter Is Coming. Is Your Dog Ready?
Winter is almost here as temperatures continue to drop. But is your dog ready for colder weather, snow, and ice? If you’re not sure how to answer that, keep reading for some tips courtesy of Loyal Pit Bull Love.
Winter Is Coming. Is Your Dog Ready?
Winter is almost here as temperatures continue to drop. But is your dog ready for colder weather, snow, and ice? If you’re not sure how to answer that, keep reading for some tips courtesy of Loyal Pit Bull Love.
What does my dog need?
What your pet needs for the cold winter months depends upon where you live, their breed, and the activities that you will partake in together. If you do not have a dog yet, but you are preparing to make one a part of your family, it pays to do some research on the breed.
That said, most dogs can benefit from a few basic supplies. An ample store of dry cloths at the door when you come in for your afternoon walk, particularly on rainy or snowy days, will help reduce the potential for ear infections. If you live in an area where freezing weather is common, a pair of dog booties can help keep their feet warm and dry. Pets that live in the city, where sidewalks are treated with salt, will benefit from a three-month supply of Vaseline to reduce dryness and irritation on delicate paws.
Eating Habits
Unfortunately, with cooler weather means less time outdoors for both you and your pet. Because of this, you’ll want to watch their eating habits. Dog Food Insider suggests keeping a close eye on the treats you feed them. Avoid the temptation to sneak Spot a little nibble of turkey or ham, and remember, these are unnecessary calories. If you do want to treat your animal, and they have already shown signs of anxiety, pain, or arthritis, consider giving them CBD treats instead of traditional snacks. CBD can assist with these issues and more, but you’ll also want to pay close attention here to the ingredients and dosage and each treat.
Basic Hygiene
Although your human kids may take fewer showers now that they’re not running, jumping, and sweating every day, you cannot neglect your pet’s hygiene, even during the winter. The American Kennel Club recommends keeping your dog’s feet clean and making sure to trim foot fuzz, which can be a haven for uncomfortable ice balls. Keep your dog brushed well as matted fur simply doesn’t insulate them against the cold anywhere near as well as a clean coat.
Indoors And Out
Whether you plan on spending lots of time outside or not, there’s no denying that the air is cooler both indoors and out. Make sure that your dog has a warm place to snuggle up after each walk. If they live primarily outdoors, this may be an insulated doghouse. Another option is purchasing your pup an indoor doghouse, but you’ll need to consider your dog’s size and how much space you have in your home. Smaller, indoor dogs may benefit from a heated dog bed, particularly those breeds with a short coat and low body fat – think greyhounds and pit bulls.
At the end of the day, everything that you supply your dog will really have to do with their build, temperament, and activities. But, remember, no matter what you buy, make sure to invest in quality food, products, and accessories. Doing so will not only save you money in the long run, but will ensure that your beloved bow wow has what they need to stay safe and healthy until the warm season returns.
Image via Pexels
What your pet needs for the cold winter months depends upon where you live, their breed, and the activities that you will partake in together. If you do not have a dog yet, but you are preparing to make one a part of your family, it pays to do some research on the breed.
That said, most dogs can benefit from a few basic supplies. An ample store of dry cloths at the door when you come in for your afternoon walk, particularly on rainy or snowy days, will help reduce the potential for ear infections. If you live in an area where freezing weather is common, a pair of dog booties can help keep their feet warm and dry. Pets that live in the city, where sidewalks are treated with salt, will benefit from a three-month supply of Vaseline to reduce dryness and irritation on delicate paws.
Eating Habits
Unfortunately, with cooler weather means less time outdoors for both you and your pet. Because of this, you’ll want to watch their eating habits. Dog Food Insider suggests keeping a close eye on the treats you feed them. Avoid the temptation to sneak Spot a little nibble of turkey or ham, and remember, these are unnecessary calories. If you do want to treat your animal, and they have already shown signs of anxiety, pain, or arthritis, consider giving them CBD treats instead of traditional snacks. CBD can assist with these issues and more, but you’ll also want to pay close attention here to the ingredients and dosage and each treat.
Basic Hygiene
Although your human kids may take fewer showers now that they’re not running, jumping, and sweating every day, you cannot neglect your pet’s hygiene, even during the winter. The American Kennel Club recommends keeping your dog’s feet clean and making sure to trim foot fuzz, which can be a haven for uncomfortable ice balls. Keep your dog brushed well as matted fur simply doesn’t insulate them against the cold anywhere near as well as a clean coat.
Indoors And Out
Whether you plan on spending lots of time outside or not, there’s no denying that the air is cooler both indoors and out. Make sure that your dog has a warm place to snuggle up after each walk. If they live primarily outdoors, this may be an insulated doghouse. Another option is purchasing your pup an indoor doghouse, but you’ll need to consider your dog’s size and how much space you have in your home. Smaller, indoor dogs may benefit from a heated dog bed, particularly those breeds with a short coat and low body fat – think greyhounds and pit bulls.
At the end of the day, everything that you supply your dog will really have to do with their build, temperament, and activities. But, remember, no matter what you buy, make sure to invest in quality food, products, and accessories. Doing so will not only save you money in the long run, but will ensure that your beloved bow wow has what they need to stay safe and healthy until the warm season returns.
Image via Pexels
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