Cold Weather Dog Safety Tips

Cold Weather Dog Safety

Keeping your dog safe in the cold weather is vitally important as temperatures drop. Adverse weather conditions can put your pet in harm's way if you are not adequately prepared. The following cold weather dog safety tips can keep your precious pet protected during the cold months.

Limit Your Dog's Exposure To Cold
Let's face it, whether playing in the sunshine or romping in the snow, most dogs love being outside. Dogs get excited to play outside and may want to stay in the cold longer than they should. Frostbite is a grave injury and it should be taken seriously. Allow your pet to go potty and perhaps sniff around the yard, but then quickly bring your pet inside.

Always Keep Your Dog On Leash
In the winter, dogs can lose their scent if they become lost or disoriented in a snow storm, so always keep your dog on a dependable Dog Leash. According to the ASPCA more dogs are lost in the winter than in any other season. Of course, all pets should wear a Dog Collar (with your phone number written inside) and up-to-date Dog ID Tags year round.

Never Leave Your Dog In A Cold Car
During cold winter months, your car's temperature drops dramatically after being turned off. Never leave your dog unattended inside your car, even if just for a few minutes. Your pet might love to travel with you, but they also love to sleep on the couch. Let them stay home, safe and warm. The warm greeting you'll get when you come in from the cold is worth it.

Let Your Dog's Coat Grow A Bit
Never shave your dog's coat all the way down during the winter months. Your dog's natural coat is their first line of protection against the cold. When bathing your dog in the winter, always dry them off completely with an absorbent dog towel. If you have anti-freeze in your garage, or other potential poisons, store them up and out of your pet's reach.

Invest In A Warm Dog Jacket
If you have a small dog, or a big dog that will be outside during extreme cold conditions, invest in a high quality Dog Jacket, coat or Dog Sweater. The extra protection is well worth it. You wouldn't go outside without a coat - would you?

Dog Jacket

Above: A warm and comfy dog jacket, like the Gooby Padded Vest Jacket is a great choice to protect your pet from the elements.

Provide A Warm Dog Bed And Dog Blanket
When the temperatures drop, all dogs love to snuggle up in a comfy, cozy Dog Bed. Providing a warm, soft Dog Blanket for those cold winter nights is a nice way to make your pet's life a bit more comfortable.

Related Dog Tips
Halloween Dog Safety Tips
Muddy Paws: A Dog Owner’s Guide To Spring
Summer Fun: Keeping Your Dog Healthy In The Spring & Summer Months