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Keeping Your Dog Warm in the Winter Months
Though many dogs have heavy coats, not all breeds are equipped to handle the chill of winter weather. You need to take special care to keep your dog warm during the winter months. If you have cold winter temperatures, you will need to be prepared when winter arrives.
You probably already make preparations like getting out your coats, adding antifreeze to the car, and making sure your heat pump is working properly. You should also take a few precautions to make sure your dog is ready for winter.
Make arrangements for your dog to have a place to sleep indoors. Don’t assume that a fur coat makes all dogs equipped to handle winter weather. Most dogs need to be inside during cold weather in order to stay healthy and maintain optimal body temperature. If you have a big dog that can’t stay indoors, try to make a comfortable heated bed available in the garage or basement. Find a place where your dog can seek shelter from cold winter snow and ice.
If you have a small dog, you should buy a sweater to keep it warm. Celebrities love to tote around little toy Chihuahuas dressed in designers dog clothes. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or even look for stylish sweaters for your dog. Just choose something warm that fits so your tiny little companion won’t freeze when you take him for a walk.
You should also move dog dishes inside so the water doesn’t freeze. You should always have food and water easily accessible for your pets, but outdoors is not the best place to leave a bowl of water in the winter. Place your dog’s dish near its bed in a warm, sheltered area.
If you ever notice your dog shaking in the cold weather, take him inside immediately. Swaddle him up in warm blankets or towels to bring his body temperature up. Little dogs can get hypothermia quickly, so take your dog to the vet if shaking or shivering persists.
You should also be aware of potential poisons that are frequently found outdoors in the winter. Antifreeze is lethal for dogs, but they seem to love to drink it. Make sure that your dog is nowhere near antifreeze or other chemical products during the winter months. If your neighbor works on his car outside, make sure you ask him to store antifreeze and oil out of your dog’s reach. Most people are careful about this anyway.
Finally, use the winter chill as a good excuse to cuddle up with your furry companion. A little body heat will keep you and your special dog warm. Dogs have a naturally higher core body temperature than humans, so your dog can actually warm you up if you catch a chill.
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