Protect your dog from the cold

We’re smart enough to “bundle up” in the cold weather – and we’re getting plenty of experience this year!
But our dogs depend on us to keep them safe in the cold. Getting them out to do their “business” is essential – but keeping our dogs safe is paramount.

A few keys to remember:

  • Sub-zero wind chill weather is not the time for long walks. Exercise your dog indoors with vigorous tug sessions, training games, and even “hide and seek.” Remember that 10 minutes of brain work is as tiring for your dog as a half an hour of fetch.
  • Keep to your regular schedule for “potty walks.” If you dog has a favorite spot to eliminate, consider carrying your dog directly to that place to minimize cold exposure on his/her paws.
  • Protect your dogs’ paws from snow, salt, and ice. If you live in an urban area where road salt is used, it can quickly damage your dog’s naked pads. We recommend using Pawz Dog Boots, but if you need something now – wrap a plastic bag around your dog’s foot and fasten with masking tape. Do NOT use rubber bands – they can cut off the dog’s circulation and do serious damage.
  • If your dog has a short or minimal fur, a coat is crucial, too. We prefer coats that cover the
    Teddy in his Chillybuddy Winter Jacket

    Teddy in his Chillybuddy Winter Jacket

    dog’s chest. If you do have a “horse-blanket” style of dog coat that just covers the back, sponge off any salt, slush, or snow from your dog’s underside when you get back indoors. The salt can burn your dog.

  • Dogs also benefit from the same layering we do. Put a sweater or t-shirt on under the coat on extra-cold days.
  • Your dog may use more calories during cold weather – it takes some effort just to stay warm. Feeding a little extra is a good idea if your dog is slim.
  • Your dog may need an extra layer inside, as well.

Some of our favorite products for protecting our dogs in extreme cold:

Pawz boots
Chillybuddy Winter Jacket
Stretch Fleece Jacket
Hoodie Sweat Shirt

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