A Cold-Weather Prep Guide for Pup Parents

As winter rolls in across Australia, let’s ensure our beloved dogs stay happy and healthy during the colder months! Just like us, they can feel the chill, so it’s crucial to provide them with the care they need. Here are some simple and effective ways to keep your furry companions cosy and thriving this winter season!

1. Warm Beds = Happy Pups

A chilly floor can be quite uncomfortable at any time, especially in the early morning! While some dogs love the cool tiles during hot summer days, they really need a warm and cosy spot to snuggle up in when winter comes. To keep your furry friend happy and snug, why not upgrade their sleeping area with comfy bedding and a dedicated space that shields them from the cold floor? Your dog will appreciate the extra warmth and comfort!

Tips:

• Choose a plush, raised bed to keep your pup off chilly tiles.

• Add an extra blanket (or three) for burrowing comfort.

• Move their bed away from windows, doors, or drafty spots.

• Try a non-slip mat underneath to prevent senior arthritic dogs from slipping or falling

2. Walkies Still Matter (Even if You’d Rather Hibernate)

While it’s true that cold weather can be challenging, it’s important to ensure your dog still receives their daily exercise and social interaction. Regular physical activity and social engagement are crucial for your dog’s overall health and well-being, even during colder months.

Tips:

• Walk during the warmest part of the day.

• Keep sessions shorter if it’s windy or raining, and add indoor games to make up for it.

• Dry off your best friend using a towel upon return home if it’s been wet outside

• Try tug-of-war, hide-and-seek, or food puzzles indoors.

3. Winter Grooming = Less Shivering

It may seem surprising, but grooming is essential during the winter months. Matted fur can trap moisture, which can lead to your dog feeling colder. Regular grooming helps maintain a healthy coat and keeps your pet comfortable in colder weather.

Tips:

• Regular brushing helps prevent matting, especially in double-coated breeds. Matted fur traps moisture and makes dogs colder! Plus, it can lead to skin problems.

• Keep their coat clean and dry—damp fur chills dogs quickly.

• Trim long fur around their paws to prevent water, mud, or debris from accumulating.

• Always dry them off after wet walks.

• Feed a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids to hydrate the skin and reinforce the skin barrier function while also reducing hair loss and flaking. Petzyo’s Salmon & Ocean Fish recipe is super for this!

4. Fashion Meets Function: Time for a Winter Coat

When it comes to cold weather, not all dog breeds are equally equipped to handle low temperatures. Lean or short-haired dogs, such as Greyhounds or tiny Chihuahuas, may struggle to stay warm in chilly conditions. Providing them with a jacket can significantly help keep them comfortable and protect them from the cold.

Tips:

• Look for waterproof, insulated coats that cover the chest and belly.

• Make sure your dog can move freely and that the coat fits snugly (but not too tightly).

• Bonus points if it matches yours!

5. Feeding for the Season

A study conducted by Palestrini in 2022 indicates that some dogs expend additional energy during winter months to maintain their body temperature, leading to an increased demand for food intake. In contrast, some dogs tend to be less active and may sleep more during this season. This highlights the importance of monitoring their food consumption during the colder months.

Tips:

• Keep an eye on their weight and energy levels.

• Adjust food portions as needed, and consult your veterinarian for guidance.

• Use treat balls and slow-feeders for extra enrichment.

• For extra convenience, you can also use our feeding calculator here.

6. Vet Visits & Health Check

Cold weather has been known to exacerbate joint pain and may even uncover underlying health concerns. It’s important to prioritise regular check-ups to stay on top of your health.

Tips:

• Watch for limping, stiffness, or unusual slowing down.

• Ask your vet about joint supplements or meds if needed.

• Keep up with flea, tick, and worming meds—pests don’t take the winter off.

7. Keep Their Brain Warm Too

During winter, dogs may often find themselves indoors, which can lead to boredom and inactivity. It's important to find engaging activities to keep them stimulated and happy. Let’s explore some creative ways to keep your dog entertained during this snowy season.

Tips:

• Try snuffle mats, treat puzzles, or scent games.

• Teach a new trick (or brush up on old ones).

• Cuddle time counts too!

❄️ Final Sniff: Winter Doesn’t Have to Be Ruff!

With a few simple adjustments, winter can become a delightful season for your dog! By preparing thoughtfully, you can keep your furry friend warm, healthy, and excited for every moment, whether it’s enjoying invigorating morning walks or snuggling together on the couch during cosy, stormy weekends. Let’s make this winter a joyful adventure!

References

Hall, E. J., Carter, A. J., & Farnworth, M. J. (2021). Exploring owner perceptions of the impacts of seasonal weather variations on canine activity and potential consequences for human–canine relationships. Animals, 11(11), 3302.

Palestrini, C., Minozzi, G., Mazzola, S. M., Lopez, A., & Cannas, S. (2022). Do intense weather events influence dogs' and cats' behavior? Analysis of owner reported data in Italy. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9, 973574.