Many parts of the country experience extremely cold weather that presents challenges for dog owners. Keeping familiar with cold weather health hazards can keep your pet safe while allowing both of you to enjoy the outdoors.
A couple good tips noted by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers include:
- Dogs with short coats or low body fat (Chihuahuas, Greyhounds, miniature Pinschers etc.) will benefit from a water-resistant sweater or coat when outdoor temperatures drop.
- Boots are a good way to protect feet and pads from salt and chafing.
- Keep your pet on a leash in cold weather – more dogs are lost in the winter than in any other season. Unleashed dogs may also run onto partially frozen bodies of water.
- Limit the duration of your outdoor trips to minimize chance of frostbite or hypothermia.
- Don't let your dog eat snow. The snow may cause stomach upset or there may be hidden objects in the snow.
Keep these tips in mind and enjoy getting out with your dog and enjoying the weather.