Now that I have given you a few tips on protecting my paws. (See Cold Dog Feet) I thought I would add protect a dogs body. No dog likes to be a chilly dog.
These tips are for dogs who live with you and not the brave, brave dogs that live outdoors and have their own dog house.
6 Tips to get your dog Winter fit
Eating: We dogs may tend to eat more during cold weather, but freezing weather may prevent us from getting enough exercise to burn off those extra calories. So even if I beg at the table or give my best wistful look when my bowl is empty, I have to say don’t fall for it! No extra tasty bit of cheese or chicken when you’re fixing dinner. If you’re not careful, I’ll need a spring exercise regimen to slim me back for the summer beach season.
However if I am a mad dog in the winter and spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities I do need a little extra food, particularly protein to keep me and my fur in tip top shape.
Grooming: Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter; we need that longer coat to provide more warmth. When you bathe me in the colder months, be sure to completely dry me before taking me out for a walk. And for my short-haired and skinny friends with not a lot of fat on their bones? Consider getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. For many of my dog friends, this is regulation winter wear.
Coats – oh, the options – too many options if you ask me.
Dog apparel is a huge industry, and naturally, there’s no lack of selection to show off your dog’s style when you go on your winter adventures.
When deciding on which style of coat is best for your dog, you have to consider what activities your dog will be engaging in.
Fashion?
For the causal block-walker: consider a simple dog sweater or jacket. These coats provide decent body coverage, leaving the legs and underbelly exposed.
For the truly skinny types, consider a full dog bodysuit. These insulated suits provide total body protection, covering the body, underbelly and legs. Perfect for Italian Greyhounds.
Always make sure that it fits comfortably and there is room to move.
Travel: it’s not just the summer months that you should be concerned about us waiting for you in the car. Never leave me alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing me to freeze to death.
Beware: Coolant, antifreeze is a lethal poison for us dogs. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Visit the SPCA Animal Poison Control Center more information.
Bedtime: Make sure we have a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect. Your bed is even better!
What things do you do to get your dog Winter fit?
