7 Ways to Care for a Dog in Winter

As we are almost coming to the end of Autumn and fast approaching Winter it is important to know how to care for your dog during this time of year.

Here are a few helpful tips on how you can care for a dog:

1) Do not shave a dogs winter coat your dog will need this to keep warm during these next months. If you have a short-haired dog you may need to think about investing in a dog coat to keep your pooch warm, especially while out walking.

2) Dogs need more food so their bodies can generate body heat to keep them warm, this is especially important if your dog lives in an outside area.

3) If you live in an area with snakes be wary with your dog at this time of year as the snakes are looking for somewhere to hibernate and may be short-tempered, which can make them prone to attack.

4) Ensure that your dogs sleeping area or bed is free from draughts as in the winter months these often occur. This also applies in you have an outside dog living in a kennel, ensure that the kennel is facing away from the winds and draughts and is well made and wind proof. Even better if it is possible keep dogs inside the home during the real cold and wet weather.

5) Remember to protect your dog from fleas because they are still around and active this time of year. I find the best flea and tick killer is Frontline, as it has always protected my two dogs very well.

6) Be cautious when putting antifreeze in your car, make sure that you wash any spilt antifreeze away properly as this can be very harmful if ingested by dogs.

7) Rodent killer is often put down this time of year to stop pests from getting into the home. Be aware that the rodent killer is also harmful to your pet dog.

If you follow this advice on caring for a dog you are ensuring that your dogs health is kept in good shape and a dog needs a responsible owner.