Tips To Protect Dogs From The Cold
Cold can cause breathing difficulties in dogs, which can even develop into serious illness. Joint and / or bone diseases often worsen as a result.
This is why it is important to prepare dogs for winter and protect them from the cold.
How do I know my dog is freezing?
It is best to protect dogs from the cold as early as possible to avoid physical harm.
Typically , the dog will shiver to indicate that he is freezing. But it’s important to look out for other signs as well:
- Decreased breathing rate (the dog usually stops panting)
- Indolence and languor
- Extreme depression and fatigue
- Dry skin and mucous membranes (may crack)
Diseases caused by cold in dogs
Protecting dogs from the cold is the most effective way to prevent disease. Then you will find out which illnesses can be triggered or worsened by the cold.
Colds
Dogs can catch a cold and show symptoms similar to humans: a cold and wet nose, red eyes, fever, constipation, tiredness and sneezing.
Tracheobronchitis (“dog cough”)
This disease is caused by a rapidly mutating virus. The time of infection begins in autumn and extends over the entire winter. It is therefore important to prepare dogs for the cold season as early as the end of summer.
It is not a dangerous disease, but it can be very uncomfortable for your four-legged friend and take a long time. Therefore, at the first signs of fever, vomiting, and constipation in your dog, you should see a veterinarian immediately.
In the further development of this disease, severe respiratory diseases can develop. Diseases such as bronchitis, sore throat, laryngitis, and pneumonia can start with a simple cold.
Joint and / or bone diseases
Joint diseases are usually more common in winter. Especially when cold and damp come together.
Older dogs or animals with hip dysplasia are the most susceptible. That is why they need a lot of protection from the cold.
Which breeds can tolerate the cold well, which ones need special protection?
Many people think that dogs with long and thick fur will not freeze, but all dogs can feel cold and heat. However, depending on the size, breed and type of fur, their resistance can vary.
The Siberian Husky, Shar-Pei, Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute, and Chow Chow are the best known examples of dogs with amazing hardiness in extremely cold temperatures. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need protection.
Small dogs with thin fur in particular are often very sensitive to the cold. Your body is more vulnerable and not immune to extreme cold. You will therefore get sick more quickly.
Dog breeds that should be protected from the cold include: Yorkshire Terriers, Pinschers, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pugs, Chihuahuas, Miniature Bull Terriers and Hairless Dogs.
6 helpful tips to keep dogs safe from the cold
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Adequate room temperature
In countries with cold winters, it is particularly important to turn on the heating and thus ensure that the house is pleasantly warm. The ideal temperature is between 19ºC and 25ºC.
Our pet’s sleeping place should be provided with a thick, clean and dry blanket.
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Clothing for protection from the cold
There are waterproof sweaters and coats for dogs of all sizes and ages.
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Walks in the sun are nicer
The cold shouldn’t stop your best friend from staying active. Because in reality, physical activity helps regulate body temperature, which plays an important role in winter. It is best to go for a walk in the morning or at noon in the sunshine.
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Dog house in the garden
Many four-legged friends sleep outside the home at night. In such cases, it’s important to build or buy a kennel for your dog so he doesn’t have to endure the cold.
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Moisturizers
Dogs’ ears and paws are very sensitive to cold and can easily dry out and / or crack. To prevent this problem and to treat the paws, there are special moisturizers for dogs.
Please note that you should not use human products for animals.
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Massages and warm compresses
Puppies and old dogs can often get stiff muscles due to the cold temperatures. In such cases, it is recommended to massage the affected area gently and apply a warm compress for 15 minutes.
To protect dogs from the cold, it is important to regularly vaccinate and deworm your four-legged friends. Otherwise, their immune systems can be weakened and the animals are more susceptible to disease.
