Many people think because dogs have fur coats they don’t get cold. However, especially in the winter, dogs can get very cold! The problem is that we don’t always know when they are cold since they can’t talk and they don’t show it the same way we do.
How to Know When Your Dog is Cold
Shivering – One of the first and easiest signs of being cold is shivering. This will probably be the most noticeable thing you will see and is definitely more common in smaller dogs with thin coats.
Slow movements or hunching over – A lot of times your dog will start to slow down and hunch over when he or she gets too cold outside. Many dogs will often curl their tail under as well in order to try and warm themselves up.
Cold ears – If you think your dog may be really cold, touch his ears and his body. A dog’s ears will always let you know how your dog’s body temperature is faring. If they feel like ice cubes, get your dog to a warmer area ASAP.
Limping – Your dog may start to limp and walk gingerly when he or she is cold. This is because the pads on a dog’s paws are freezing and it’s making them extremely cold.
How to Keep Them Warm in the Cold Months
Let their coats grow – In the winter it’s okay to skip the cuts at the groomer. Keep them bathed and combed, but skipping the cut can give them a little extra warmth.
Make sure their sleeping area is warm – If their bed is in a drafty area of the home try getting them a heated dog bed or invest in a Snuggle Safe microwaveable heat disc. A fabric bag filled with dry rice is also easy to microwave for heat. And if they sleep outside make sure they have shelter from the wind with plenty of insulation, and a heated water bowl to keep water from freezing.
Put on winter gear as needed – Don’t be afraid to use sweaters, coats, and booties when you’re going to be outside. Just make sure to watch them so they don’t overheat or get tangled in their outerwear.
Take walks during the warmest part of the day – Even in the peak of winter, dogs still need their exercise. Make sure to do any activities or walks in the warmest parts of the day.
Signs of Hypothermia
If your dog gets too cold, he or she could end up with hypothermia. If you see any of the following symptoms make sure to contact your vet. Try to warm your pet up slowly, but do not make it a drastic change as this can shock their system.
- Extreme lethargy
- Shallow breathing
- Stiff movements
- Low blood pressure
No one likes to be cold and that includes our dogs. Just because they have fur coats doesn’t always mean dogs stay warm when the temperature dips. Thankfully we have ways to keep our pets cozy, warm, and healthy.