How to Protect Your Dog in Snow and Cold

#AlphaDogTraining #dogtrainingsaltlakecity Protecting Your Dog in Snow and Cold Published by Alpha Dog Training https://www.alpha-dog-training-slc.com/ (801)910-1700 There’s nothing quite like watching a dog experience snow for the first time. Not all dogs are suited for outdoor play in cold weather, though. Here are a few tips for dogs in snow so they can enjoy the winter wonderland. Some dogs have thick coats designed to withstand cold temperatures, whereas others have thin coats that don’t keep them warm. When it comes to spending time outside this winter, use your best judgment. Consider the thickness of your dog’s coat and his age, as puppies and senior dogs have a harder time regulating their body temperature. A good rule of thumb is if it’s too cold for you in your winter coat, it’s too cold for your dog. Here are some other winter safety tips . How to Protect Your Dog in Snow & Ice 1. Gradually Acclimate to the Cold The key is acclimation. If they seem fine and aren’t shivering or trying to get in, it’s perfectly fine for them to stay outside for longer periods as long as they’re building up to it. Start with short sessions outside and slowly increase so they have time to adjust. 2. Make Potty Time More Efficient Try shoveling a patch of grass for potty time so they have a spot to go right away. If there are areas with more protection from snow, ice and wind, encourage your pup to go there instead. Give treats after to reinforce the good behavior and discourage accidents inside. 3. Keep an Eye Out for Rock Salt & Antifreeze Rock salt isn’t toxic, but it may upset their stomach if ingested and can irritate their paws. Antifreeze tastes sweet but is toxic. Look for blue or green-colored substances on driveways, sidewalks and cars and keep dogs away from those spots. Wipe off their paws before they come inside to remove any salt or antifreeze residue they might lick off. This will also warm the paws faster. 4. Learn How to Warm them Up If your dog seems cold, cover him with a towel or blanket. You can also use a blow dryer on a low setting, but don’t heat his paw pads, as they could burn. Instead, heat up some rice in a sock (place against your wrist to ensure it’s not too hot). If you know your dog gets cold easily, stock up in advance on sweaters, coats and booties. 5. Protect Dog Paws in Winter For cracked paw pads, use a moisturizer made for cow udders to soothe your dog’s paws. After applying, keep him busy with a puzzle feeder or treat so he doesn’t lick it off immediately. To protect your dog’s paws in winter and prevent cracked pads, try putting your dog in booties. Otherwise clean his paws every time he comes inside.