AKC Guidelines: Winter Care for Canines 1/3

Part 1 of 3

General Concerns

As cooler temperature set in, keep these concerns in mind when it comes to your canine companion:

• Don't leave your pet outside in cool temperatures for long periods of time.  Wind chill makes days colder than actual temperature readings.
• Adequate shelter is a necessity.  Keep your dog warm, dry, and away from drafts.  Tiled and uncarpeted areas may become extremely cold, be sure to place blankets and pads on bare floors where your pet may be.
• Be cautious of playing with your pet near frozen lakes, rivers or ponds. 
• Groom your dog regularly.  Your pet's coat needs to be well-groomed in order to keep properly insulated.  Short or coarse-haired dogs may get extra cold, so consider a sweater or coat for your dog.  Long-haired dogs should have excess hair around their paws trimmed to ease snow removal and cleaning. 
• Feed your dog additional calories if it spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal.  It takes more energy in the winter to keep body temperature regulated.
• Towel or blow-dry your dog if it gets wet from rain or snow.  It is important to dry and clean their paws as well.  This helps to prevent cracked pads. 
• Don't leave your dog alone in a car.  If the car engine is left on, the carbon monoxide will endanger your dog's life.  If the engine is off, the temperature in the car may get too cold.

By keeping these simple tips in mind, you and your pet will be on your way to a safe and joyful winter season!