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01st Jan 2024

How to keep dogs warm in winter

by Burns Team Writer

As the cold temperatures set in, remember that all dogs need a little extra care during this season. The impact of cold weather can vary depending on your dog’s breed, age and size. From Bearded Collies with their thick double coats to Jack Russells with their short haired coats, it’s important to be mindful of the individual needs of your dog. Whether it’s protecting them from outdoor conditions or providing them with indoor comfort, the extra care will ensure your canine companion stays happy, healthy and warm throughout the colder months.

Find out how to keep your dog warm this winter.

 

How to tell if your dog is cold

Recognising when your dog is cold is crucial for their wellbeing, especially during colder temperatures. The most common signs to look out for include:

  • Shivering
  • Trembling
  • Whining
  • Barking
  • Curling up
  • Acting lethargic
  • Tucking their tail

 

How to keep your dog warm

Keeping your dog warm in winter is essential for their health and happiness. From washing their paws to elevating their bed, there are a number of ways to ensure your dog stays comfortable during the colder weather.

1. Wash their paws

Washing your dog’s paws after a winter walk is crucial for their comfort and wellbeing. In addition to the increased likelihood of muddy paws during this season, it’s especially important to remove any road salt. This can be harsh on your dog’s sensitive paw pads and can even cause digestive issues if ingested by your furry friend. By washing their paws, you can reduce the risk of any discomfort.
After washing your dog’s paw pads, remember to thoroughly dry them to prevent the skin from becoming sore due to dampness.

2. Get them a coat

Getting your dog a coat is a simple yet effective way of keeping them cosy and content during the chilly winter months. A winter coat serves as a protective layer, shielding them from the wind, rain and snow. This is particularly important for short haired dogs, such as Whippets and Chihuahuas, that don’t have thick fur to keep them warm. A winter coat can help to maintain your dog’s body heat, keeping them warm and dry on the coldest and wettest of days.

3. Elevate their bed

Elevating your dog’s bed can make those cold winter nights more comfortable. By lifting their bed off the cold ground, you effectively create a barrier that protects them from the chilly floor. It also promotes air circulation beneath the bed, preventing moisture from building up as your dog sleeps. To keep your dog warm at night, you could also provide them with a heating pad or hot water bottle. These can simply be placed under the dog bed for extra warmth throughout the night.

4. Play with them

Missing the odd walk isn’t the end of the world. In fact, it can sometimes be safer if you are likely to be blown across the road on leaving the front door! However, it is important that your dog still receives plenty of exercise. Interactive games like fetch and tug of war can keep your dog physically active, while providing them with mental stimulation. You can even use this extra time indoors to teach them a new trick. This not only strengthens the bond between you and your dog, but also contributes to their overall wellbeing during the winter months.

5. Feed them a quality diet

Feeding your dog a high quality diet is always important. However, it is especially critical during the winter months. As temperatures drop, dogs naturally use more energy to maintain their body heat. Through a nutritionally balanced diet, you can provide your dog with the calories needed to support their increased energy levels. This is particularly important for working dogs and energetic breeds, as they may need a few more calories to keep them warm in the cold weather.

At Burns, our dog food is renowned for its nutritional quality. Using natural ingredients, our dog food contains all of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals that dogs need. We even have a range of food for working dog breeds, containing higher levels of proteins and fats for their increased energy demands.

Have a question?

If you have questions or concerns about keeping your dog healthy during the winter months, get in touch. Our team of nutritional advisers are here to help, providing you with expert advice on adjusting their diet and meeting their nutritional needs.

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