Winter Safety Tips for Dogs: Preventing Cold-Weather Problems

When the weather turns brutally cold, and the snow and ice start falling, we take care to cover ourselves in our warmest winter coats, hats and scarves. We bundle our children in their warmest clothes and keep the cars running to make sure our little ones stay warm and safe. But what about our furry friends? Here are a few safety tips to keep your dog safe over the winter months.

Winter Safety Tips for Dogs: Keep Your Dog on Her Leash

It may seem like common sense, but keep your dog on her leash - especially in the winter. Dogs can become disoriented when it snows, and your dog may not be able to find her way home if she wanders off her leash.

Winter Safety Tips for Dogs: Grooming

While keeping your pet well groomed is always important, do not shave your dog in the winter. Leaving him with a thick but well kept, clean coat will give him an added layer of protection that he may need when the air is especially cold. In addition, keep your dog's nails trimmed. Nails have a tendency to grow longer during the winter time if your pet is spending more time indoors. Keeping them trimmed will ensure that your dog's feet stay healthy and give him more stability outside on those icy sidewalks. Finally, keep a towel or some baby wipes by the door to wipe your dog's feet when he comes inside from the cold. Keeping your dog's feet clean will prevent him from licking off salt or de-icers used on the sidewalk that could be toxic.

Winter Safety Tips for Dogs: Puppies

Puppies may be enthralled by the snow, or they may hate it. Either way, your puppy is even more sensitive to the cold than an adult dog. If your puppy seems to be averse to the cold weather, consider paper training her instead as a temporary measure until the weather gets warmer.

Winter Safety Tips for Dogs: Prevent Hypothermia

Your dog may love jumping through the wet snow at your side. Keep in mind, though, that all dogs, particularly small breeds, are susceptible to the cold and can suffer from hypothermia if left outdoors too long. Keep a close eye on your dog. If he starts shivering, whining, or generally looking anxious, get him inside and warmed up quickly. If you like dressing your dog, find him a warm coat to provide some comfort from the cold.

Winter Safety Tips for Dogs: Shelter

This may seem obvious, but make sure your dog has a place to find shelter from the cold and that he has fresh water available at all times. If your dog is not a house dog, provide a place for him that is free from drafts and sheltered from the elements. A healthy coat is important during the winter months too, so provide him with a top quality food made just for dogs.