Many people believe that dogs aren’t sensitive to cold weather and that they don’t mind being in a chilly climate. They think that because they have fur this will protect them from the elements, this assumption is a big mistake. Most dogs, except for some breeds which are bred for cold weather, such as the Husky and Shiba Inu, get just as cold as we get. This especially applies for puppies and older dogs.
Weather sensitivity
Have you ever noticed your pup acting differently and then a day later it has poured with rain? Dogs can often sense a change in weather before we do. This is due to the instincts our dogs still have from an earlier time when they had to survive in the nature. This can have an influence on their behaviour and even on their mood.
Protection during winter
You should know if your dog’s breed is very sensitive to cold weather. Some breeds with very short fur and no undercoat need to be protected. You should consider allowing your dog to sleep in the house at night during the colder months to keep them warm. Most of our dog minders in the FindADogMinder community do allow the dogs they mind to stay inside their home.
Dogs who spend a long time outside in the cold need much more energy to keep warm which means that they need a different diet. When you notice that your pooch freezes during or after a long walk, it might be a good idea to protect him with a dog coat. Further, dogs with longer hair should be groomed on a regular basis to get rid of dirt and maintain good insulation.
Risks for your dog during cold weather
Dogs who get exposed to the cold a lot or which sleep outside can get sick. They can get a cold or a bladder infection. Always try to avoid your dog being outside for too long. If you have no other option but to keep your dog outside, provide a lot of blankets and a shelter where your pooch is protected from wind, snow and rain. Your dog should never lay on cold ground and he should be kept outside if he’s wet.
During the cold months, make sure that your pet minder allows your dog to sleep inside and remember to provide everything your dog needs during the colder months.