So, winter with dogs. It’s not always easy, right? My dog’s been through a few winters now, and honestly, I learned a lot by messing things up first.
Here’s what I do to make winter a bit more comfortable for him. Nothing fancy, just what works for us.
1. Keep Them Warm
Yeah, I thought my dog would be totally fine in the cold because, you know, he’s got fur. But nope. He’s short-haired, and after like five minutes outside, he was shivering. So, I picked up a cheap jacket for him, nothing fancy, just something to keep his belly warm. If your dog’s got thicker fur, maybe they don’t need one, but for smaller dogs or ones with less fur? Definitely helps a lot.
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2. Paws Need Care Too
The first couple of winters, I didn’t even think about his paws. But after walks, he was always licking them like crazy, and I couldn’t figure out why. Then I realized it was the salt from the sidewalks. It dries their paws out and can even crack them. I felt bad that I didn’t notice earlier. Now, every time we get back, I rinse his paws off with warm water. Quick, but it makes a big difference.
I tried the whole boot thing once. He wouldn’t even walk in them. Just stood there, frozen. So yeah, that was a fail. Now I just rub some paw balm on before we head out. That does the trick and keeps his feet from getting all dried out.
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3. Short Walks are Key
In the winter, long walks are just not happening for us. My dog can handle about 10-15 minutes before he’s lifting his paws and looking at me like, “Can we go home now?” So, we do shorter walks more often.
If it’s really freezing, we just go out for a quick bathroom break and head back in. I throw his ball around the house or play tug-of-war inside to keep him active when the weather’s too rough for real walks.
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4. Watch for When They’ve Had Enough
Your dog will totally let you know when they’re done with the cold. Mine starts hopping on three legs, lifting his paws because they’re cold, and that’s my cue.
One winter, I wasn’t paying attention, and by the time we got home, he was shaking like crazy. I felt terrible. So now I’m much more careful. If he’s showing any signs he’s too cold, we head back in. No need to push it.
5. Don’t Forget the Water
I don’t know why, but I used to think dogs didn’t need as much water in the winter. That’s definitely not true. My dog drinks just as much in the cold as he does in the heat. Plus, with the heater running, it dries things out. So, I always make sure his water bowl’s full. I also started adding a little broth to his meals to help with hydration, and he loves it.
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6. Keep Brushing
Winter doesn’t mean you can skip brushing. I used to think, “It’s cold, he’s not getting dirty.” But nope, his coat would get dry, and he’d start scratching. Now, I brush him a couple of times a week to keep his coat healthy and his skin from getting too dry. And I don’t give him as many baths in winter either—just dries him out more. When I do, I use a moisturizing shampoo, and that helps.
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7. Make Their Bed Cozy
My dog’s all about his naps, especially when it’s cold out. His bed’s his spot, so I make sure it’s away from cold drafts or windows. He’s still young, so no heated bed yet, but I might get him one when he’s older. For now, I just throw an extra blanket in there, and he’s good to go.
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8. Adjust Their Food if They’re Active
Some dogs burn more calories in winter, especially if they’re still out running around a lot. I watch my dog’s weight, and if he’s more active, I’ll give him a bit more food. But if we’re hanging out inside more, I don’t overfeed him. I started giving him omega-3 supplements too, and that’s helped with his skin being less dry. His coat looks shinier now, so I’m happy with that.
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9. Be Careful with Antifreeze
Antifreeze is scary. It tastes sweet to dogs, but it’s deadly. I make sure it’s stored safely, and if there’s a spill, I clean it up right away. Even a small amount can be fatal, so I’m super paranoid about it.
10. Know When They’re Done
Some dogs love the snow and could stay out forever. My dog? Nah, he’s good for about 10 minutes, and then he’s over it. If your dog doesn’t seem to enjoy the cold, don’t force it. Quick bathroom breaks and some playtime indoors are totally fine. Every dog’s different, and you know your dog best.
That’s basically it. Winter doesn’t have to be a huge deal for your dog if you make a few little changes. These are just the things that have worked for me and my dog, and I hope it helps you too. Stay warm and enjoy the extra snuggles when it’s cold outside!
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