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Winter can be a magical time, but for our furry friends, it often brings challenges. Cold weather, dry air, and icy sidewalks can make life a little harder for dogs. With a few small changes, though, you can keep your dog happy, comfortable, and safe all season long. Here are seven simple routines to make winter more enjoyable for your pup.
1. Keep Your Dog Active Indoors
Winter weather can limit outdoor play, but your dog still needs to burn off energy. Try fun indoor games like fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek with their favorite toy. Puzzle feeders are also great for keeping their minds engaged.
When the weather isn’t too harsh, take shorter walks or play outside for a little while to give them a change of scenery. Even 10–15 minutes of fresh air can do wonders.
2. Dress for the Weather
Some dogs aren’t built to handle cold temperatures, especially short-haired breeds, smaller dogs, or older pups. A warm coat or sweater can make a big difference when you take them out for walks.
Protect their paws too! Ice, snow, and road salt can irritate their pads. Dog booties work great, but if your dog isn’t a fan, applying a pet-safe paw balm before heading out will help protect their feet.
3. Care for Their Paws
Winter conditions are tough on paws. Snow can get stuck between their toes, and road salt can cause irritation. After every walk, wipe their paws with a damp cloth to clean off any salt or debris.
To prevent cracking and dryness, use a paw balm regularly. This small step can go a long way in keeping their feet comfortable and healthy.
4. Adjust Their Diet
Winter changes your dog’s activity level, which can affect their dietary needs. If they’re less active, you might need to cut back on their food portions a bit to prevent weight gain. On the other hand, if they’re staying active and spending more time outside, they may need a little extra food to keep up their energy.
Don’t forget about water! Even in winter, your dog needs to stay hydrated, so make sure they always have access to fresh water.
5. Create a Warm and Cozy Spot
When it’s cold outside, dogs love having a warm place to relax. Make sure their bed is in a draft-free area, away from cold floors or windows. Adding a soft blanket can make it even cozier.
For dogs that spend time outdoors, ensure they have proper shelter that’s insulated and protected from wind and snow.
6. Be Aware of Winter Hazards
Winter can be dangerous for dogs in ways we might not always think about. Antifreeze, for example, is toxic but has a sweet taste that attracts dogs. Clean up any spills immediately and store it securely.
Holiday decorations like tinsel, lights, and ornaments can also be harmful if chewed or swallowed. Keep festive foods like chocolate and fatty leftovers out of reach to avoid accidental poisoning.
7. Stick to Their Grooming Routine
Even in winter, grooming is important. Regular brushing helps remove dead fur and prevents mats, which can make their coat less effective at keeping them warm.
When bathing your dog, use a moisturizing shampoo to combat dry skin caused by the cold, dry air. Always dry them completely after a bath or snowy walk to prevent chills.
Also, trim the fur around their paws to prevent ice and snow from clumping, which can be uncomfortable during walks.
Wrapping It Up
Winter care doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple changes, like keeping their paws protected, adjusting their diet, and making sure they have a warm spot to relax, can make a world of difference for your dog.
Take the time to enjoy the season together whether it’s a snowy walk, a cozy snuggle by the fire, or some fun indoor play. With these tips, you’ll keep your dog happy and healthy all winter long.
Stay warm, and enjoy the season with your four-legged friend!
