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He recommends moving senior dogs' beds to warm locations and providing extra padding for their bedding or blankets if necessary.Ī modified exercise routine can also help senior dogs keep comfortable during the winter months. Older animals struggling with joint or muscle aches can see their issues worsen when they're less active or even if they're sleeping in cooler, draftier spots in the house, said Bateman. Your dog's age is a critical factor to consider during the wintertime. 'That's definitely a concern,' said Chalhoub, who recommends seeking veterinary advice as soon as possible, since the healing process for frostbite 'can be quite gnarly.' Consider the needs of older dogs

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If they start licking their paws once you're both indoors, check to see if the skin is red, raw and swollen. When it comes to the latter, Bateman says that the skin will initially start to look a bit grey or blue, but that's often the only sign you'll see until your dog returns to a warmer environment. 'Any of these kinds of behaviours that are communicating to us that they're uncomfortable, they're not interested in doing things that would maybe normally be of interest to them, those should be absolute warning signs,' he said.įailure to protect your pup from the elements can result in hypothermia or painful frostbite. They include a dog being reluctant to walk where they typically would, refusing to do their business, staying by the door, shivering, vocalizing and lifting a paw (indicating that the ground is too cold). 'Every pet is going to communicate in slightly different ways,' said Bateman, but there are some telltale signs of discomfort that owners should watch for in winter. 'On days where there are wind warnings and general safety precautions are being advised of humans … you should absolutely be modifying your pet's activity to restrict the amount of time and the exposure that they have outdoors.' Look out for signs of discomfort He stressed the need to take the cold seriously. 'Overall, there's no doubt it's more dangerous for smaller breeds, because they will lose heat much faster.'īut regardless of their body type, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, said Bateman. 'Larger, hairier breeds are likely going to last and do better and adapt faster in the winter weather,' he said. A general guideline to remember is that if it's cold outside for you, it's likely colder for your dog.Ĭhalhoub shared that your dog's size and breed will impact how your dog will adjust to the colder temperatures. When the temperature drops to –20 C, just five minutes outside can lead to frostbite on a dog's paws, he added. 'Especially when it starts getting below –5, –10.' 'They actually do not tolerate winters like their predecessors did, and they don't have the survival instincts either for those cold days,' Chalhoub explained. Remember that if it's cold for you, it's likely colder for your dogĪ common misconception is that because dogs are descendants of wolves, they've adapted to harsh winters.

Happy animal thumbs up drawing how to#

Here's how to best protect your furry friend as the temperature drops. Shane Bateman, an associate professor in the department of clinical studies at the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph, for their advice. Serge Chalhoub, an associate professor at the faculty of veterinary medicine at the University of Calgary, and Dr. After all, the frigid season poses a range of risks for pets, from jagged pieces of ice on the sidewalk to antifreeze from cars dripping onto the ground. As we navigate another Canadian winter, it's important that we keep the safety of our dogs in mind.