Menu

Download our Petland App today for information on your local Petland's Available Pets and Pet Supplies. All at the tips of your fingers!

Petland Logo
Login/Register

Please create a free account below, or login by clicking here.

Zip Code(Required)
Pet Information and Coupons

Disclaimer

Stay updated with Petland! By checking the above box, you are providing your electronic signature to consent to receive SMS text messages, emails, mailings and other communications from Petland, even if such communications are considered advertisements, and you confirm that you are the subscriber or customary user of any phone number you submit. Text messages may be sent using an automated dialing system. Your consent is not a condition of purchasing any goods or services, and may be revoked at any time by responding STOP to any SMS text messages you receive. Message and data rates may apply. Additionally, you are consenting to location, usage, and information collection.
Pet Store Banner Pet Store Banner

Tips for Keeping Your Pup Healthy in the Winter

January 16, 2023

With winter here, we all know the challenges of staying warm and safe. We must also take into consideration the well-being of our pets as the temperature drops. Here are a few simple tips you can take to make sure your fur-legged friend stays warm, comfortable, and healthy this winter season.

Keep a Time Limit on How Long Your Pup is Outside

The key is monitoring your pup and making sure he is not left outside for more than a few minutes at a time. Things such as frostbite can set in quickly, which can be very painful for your dog. Watch his behavior while outside, and if he begins to slow down or shiver, it’s time to bring him in. Dogs do love the outdoors but have limitations, just like we do.

Bundle Your Pup Up

Yes, most dogs have thick coats, which will help keep them somewhat warm, but a second layer of insulation, such as a dog jacket or sweater, will help keep your pup warmer. Many pet stores carry insulated jackets which will prevent your dog from losing heat. This is especially important for dog breeds that have a thin coat and or are not designed to withstand cold weather.

Consider Your Pup’s Age and General Activity Level

Young puppies and senior dogs tend to have more of a difficult time in cold weather. Although puppies love to play in the snow, they do not always know their limits and can find themselves in over their head (no pun intended) when a significant amount of snow falls. Dogs between two years of age and eight years of age tend to handle the cold weather better than puppies or senior pups.

Keep Your Dog’s Paws Protected

Dogs have very sensitive and vulnerable paws, which is why keeping their paws safe is important. Dog booties offer a layer of protection between your pup’s paws and the harsh ground. Ice and snow can quickly irritate the pads on your dog’s paws. Other things, such as rock salt, which is used in the winter, can also greatly irritate his paws. Doggy booties are an inexpensive yet effective way to keep your pup feeling his best while outside in the winter. They may take some time to get used to, but they are well worth it.

Heating Beds for After Playtime

After your pup comes in, he will need to warm up. Providing your pup with a dog heating bed is a great way to help bring his body temperature up to where it needs to be. This will also help your four-legged friend relax and rest after exerting himself while outside. Several dog heating beds come with an automatic shutoff feature for safety. If a heating bed is out of your price range, consider a dog heating pad. This less expensive item will also allow your dog to warm up after being outside in the freezing weather.

Hydrate Your Dog After Playtime

Dogs do not only need extra water after playing in the warm months. Cold winter days will also require your pup to stay well hydrated. When the moisture in the air drops (as it often does) in the winter, your dog will need proper hydration. Providing your dog with ample amounts of room-temperature water when he returns inside will help keep him feeling his best.

Clean His Paws

If you opt not to use dog booties, be sure to make sure his paws are wiped down when he comes in. Rock salt and other anti-ice agents may cause your pup’s paws to be in discomfort. Wiping them down will help to remove whatever he gets on them, plus it will prevent him from licking the substance off of his paws. This very quick and very easy chore will greatly benefit your dog.

We all love our dogs, and by taking a few simple precautions, we can ensure that they remain in top condition and feel great all winter long. Always remember, if it’s too cold for you to be outside, it is probably too cold for your dog to be outside. Taking the time to make sure your pup is comfortable and safe is always very important.

Related Articles

View All Articles

  • Top Dog Breeds for Older Individuals

    Top Dog Breeds for Older Individuals

    Dogs make great companions and quickly become a part of our family. They offer us years of joy and happiness and provide us with a lot of good. Each breed of dog varies and has ...

    Read This Blog

  • Two of America’s Favorites | The French Bull Dog and The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    Two of America’s Favorites | The French Bull Dog and The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    Americans really love their dogs, and two of the most popular breeds of dogs in the United States are the French Bulldog and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Both of these pup...

    Read This Blog

  • What To Do If Your Pup Is Packing on The Pounds

    What To Do If Your Pup Is Packing on The Pounds

    Just like people, pups can experience weight issues which can result in health issues. Although each dog’s weight will increase or decrease over time, every breed has an a...

    Read This Blog

  • Meet The Two Of The Newest Dog Breed Recognized By The American Kennel Club (AKC)

    Meet The Two Of The Newest Dog Breed Recognized By The American Kennel Club (AKC)

    Big news in the dog world! The American Kennel Club announced that they are recognizing two new breeds of dogs. The Mudi and the Russian Toy. This was first announced a few mont...

    Read This Blog

  • Melanoma in Dogs

    Melanoma in Dogs

    Many of the cancers that affect humans can also affect their dogs. Our pups can develop tumors internally or can develop them on their skin and in their mouths. One such cancer,...

    Read This Blog

  • Easiest Puppy Breeds to Train

    Easiest Puppy Breeds to Train

    Are you looking for a puppy? Trying to decide which is the right breed for you can be challenging. There are several things to consider before making a final selection. How big ...

    Read This Blog

  • Our Dogs Like to Sleep!

    Our Dogs Like to Sleep!

    As we age, we often find that we sleep less deeply at night which results waking up in the morning not feeling well rested. This causes many of us to try and sneak a nap in some...

    Read This Blog

  • Constipation in Dogs — What to Do

    Constipation in Dogs — What to Do

    Constipation occurs in dogs when they are unable to produce normal stool during their daily routine. Your dog will not be able to defecate or greatly strain while trying to do s...

    Read This Blog

  • Dogs That Enjoy a Couch and Movie More Than a Yard and A Ball

    Dogs That Enjoy a Couch and Movie More Than a Yard and A Ball

    All dogs enjoy the smell of fresh air, chasing a ball, and running in circles outside. After all, they are creatures who need exercise and sunlight, and the feeling of freedom. ...

    Read This Blog

  • Best City Dogs

    Best City Dogs

    The excitement, culture, and nightlife of living in a major city is something many people enjoy. Normally a major city is a fast moving and lively place to live. Due to how many...

    Read This Blog

  • Top Six Most Recently Registered Dog Breeds

    Top Six Most Recently Registered Dog Breeds

    For a dog breed to find itself on the American Kennel Club’s registry, certain specific requirements must be fulfilled. This process is not an easy one, as the American Ke...

    Read This Blog

  • Dogs are Amazing!

    Dogs are Amazing!

    We all know that our pups are amazing and bring us a lot of enjoyment and love. There is a reason why they are referred to as “man’s best friend.”  WeR...

    Read This Blog

Help Need Help?