Baby It's Cold Outside!

As the weather cools, many owners are uncertain as to when their dog is actually "cold".  Here's some winter-weather advice to help you out.

1.  It's all in the breed.
Many breeds have been specifically equipped with double-layer coats for insulation.  Think Huskies, Malamutes, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and German Shepherds- if you're sweeping up giant fluffy balls of fur in your home every day, chances are, your dog can take quite a chill.  Small breeds, as well as very thin-coated breeds such as Boxers, Dobermans, and Greyhounds, can be far more susceptible to frosty air.

As a rule, most medium breeds and larger are comfortable quite a few degrees below what you are- their metabolism is different from ours, and they have a full-body layer of hair to insulate them from the elements.

The best way to be sure, is simply to observe your dog.  Like us, they will shiver, curl up in a ball, or seek warmer areas if they are too cold.  Never leave a dog outside in cool weather if you are not absolutely certain they are comfortable.

2.  To clothe or not to clothe?
Some owners love doggie clothes.  Some hate them.  Some are indifferent.  Do clothes play a function?

In short, yes.  While many want to argue that dogs are animals and wouldn't wear clothes in nature, modern pet dogs include breeds that would never have survived in nature.  They are here because we bred them to look the way they do, and that can include hair and body size that is incompatible with our natural climates.

Again, if your dog has sufficient hair or body mass to keep warm and does not ever appear to shiver or huddle up in the cold, clothes are unnecessary and possibly even detrimental.  A Lab or Husky in a sweater would actually be likely to overheat even if very cool weather.  It's best to reserve clothing options for very small or very hairless dogs, and monitor them closely for signs of being overheated.  Very few dogs require clothing indoors, it's best to save the sweaters for walks or traveling outside.

Just think clothes are cute?  Try to stick with lightweight cotton T-shirts then, if you must- don't allow your dog to be uncomfortably hot to satisfy your own vanity.


3.  Grooming
All dogs can benefit from winter-time grooming.  Even if your pet doesn't need a haircut, a well-groomed coat will keep them warmer than a dirty, tangled one.  All dogs should be groomed year round, to keep dirt, dead hair, and mats from gathering in their hair.  A messy coat will not have the necessary area to gather hot air near the skin and insulate the dog.  Also, be sure your groomer removes all the hair from your dog's paw pads- some people think this helps keep the feet warmer, but in reality, the hair gathers moisture, ice crystals, and road salt, and can be very uncomfortable for the dog.  It's best to keep the feet well trimmed at all times.

4.  Outdoor Comforts
If your dog spends any amount of time outside, regardless of breed or size, there are a few must-haves for their comfort and safety.  An air-tight shelter, with clean dry bedding, is essential to allow them somewhere to escape from the elements if they become overwhelming.  The shelter should be secure both from temperature and driving rains.  The bedding must be checked regularly, wet or soiled bedding will not stay warm.  Fresh water should always be available, and if the temperatures are extreme enough, a heated bowl may be necessary to prevent freezing.


5.  Let it snow!
If proper considerations are taken, most dogs love snow and winter as much as humans do.  Never be afraid to let your pet enjoy the winter- just be sure to watch and monitor for any sign of distress, and react accordingly.