7 Changes to Make Your Dog More Comfortable This Winter

Colder weather might be a welcome change if you have a dog that does well during winter. Siberian huskies, Tibetan terriers and other similar breeds are made to handle cold winters, but there are many that are not. Whether you’ve got a winter-compliant dog or one that doesn’t do well during winter, there are some changes you should make so your dog can be more comfortable this season.

1. Buy Him a New Wardrobe

Purchasing a new wardrobe for your furry family member could make all the difference once the colder temperatures hit. While there are stylish and adorable dog clothes such as dresses and tank tops, there are others specifically for cold weather. They’re still stylish and they’re still adorable, but the change will help your dog stay warm while relaxing around the house or out on a walk.

Dog hoodies come in a variety of styles with clever phrases, daring designs and multiple colors to choose from. Choose the perfect pajamas for your canine counterpart. BaxterBoo has fun designs for him, cute designs for her, and a variety that are gender-neutral.

While you’re shopping for new dog clothes, don’t forget the shoes! You wouldn’t go on a walk during winter without shoes or boots, and your dog shouldn’t have to, either. With a large variety of styles and purposes, you can find non-skid socks for keeping warm indoors, and neoprene boots for heading outdoors.

2. Warm Up His Food

Most dog owners don’t think twice about filling up the dog food container and setting it on the floor without any other preparation. Did you know you can warm up old Fido’s dinner? While you don’t want to heat it up so much it cooks the nutrients out, go ahead and make it warm enough to soothe his belly on a cold winter’s day.

While on the topic of your dog’s diet, be sure you keep him fully hydrated. Because dogs are sometimes less active during winter, they don’t get as sweaty and worn out. You may not see them pant as you do during hot summer months. This is a huge reason pet owners forget to hydrate their dogs, but that hydration is just as important during winter as it is during summer. Include a watering routine in your daily schedule so you can ensure he remains hydrated all winter long.

3. Keep Him Moisturized

Winter air seems to dry out everyone’s skin, even your dog’s. There are some things you can do to keep the dog moisturized. The following are a few ideas to try.

• Use a moisturizing shampoo, but don’t bathe the dog too often or it could have the opposite effect.

• Mix a skin and coat supplement into your dog’s food, which will help to soothe irritated and dry skin.

• Give the dog a skin and coat treat, which cleans the teeth while increasing Omegas 6 and 3 for the dog’s skin and fur.

• Use an anti-itch spray to help with the irritation that comes from dry skin.

4. Locate and Remedy Door Drafts

Pay attention to drafts that come from beneath doors and windows in your home. While you may not notice it on a regular basis, your dog is closer to that level and could be getting cold from those drafts. If you are able to make the necessary repairs, complete them before the cold weather hits. If you don’t have the time or money for such repairs, use a door draft stopper pillow, weatherstripping, foam tape or another quick solution to keep the cold weather out.

5. Improve His Housing and Sleeping Conditions

Especially if you have a strictly-outdoor dog, he may need something a little different come winter. That dog kennel or fenced dog run might work great on a warm, dry day, but where is your furry family member going to hunker down when the temperatures drop? Consider a new, large dog house where the dog can get out of the cold. For example, BaxterBoo’s “ The Mansion ” large dog house has plenty of space for your dog to sleep and relax comfortably with a roof over his head. It is raised from the ground and well ventilated so water doesn’t accumulate and your dog can stay dry.

Sleeping and housing conditions are just as important for indoor dogs during winter. While you may not have the same mansion-type house as you would for an outdoor dog, there are a lot of options that will keep your canine pal comfortable, warm and dry. For example, dog covers are plush beds where your small dog can cuddle up, nice and warm. They’re easy to wash and easily transportable so your pet can get comfortable in whatever room you are in.

6. Create Indoor Activities With Him

Your dog will still need exercise and mental stimulation during winter, so you might have to get creative if it’s too cold to venture outdoors. Consider playing fetch in a larger family room or media room. Set up an obstacle course for your dog to crawl through. Use a maze ball or puzzle ball so your dog has to work for his or her meals or treats. These things will keep your dog entertained, while offering physical and mental activity as well.

If the sun is shining and the afternoon warms up, take your dog outside for a short amount of time. You could play catch, go for a walk, let him run around the yard or just sunbathe together on the lawn. It’s best not to do this if there’s a wind, if it’s too early in the day or if it’s too late in the day. The key is that the sun should be shining and warm.

7. Wipe Him Down After Going Outdoors

When your dog goes outdoors during winter, he might have cold, wet paws when he enters the house again. Take a clean cloth and wipe down his fur to keep him dry and comfortable. It’s also possible he has picked up rock salt or other types of deicers that could be uncomfortable stuck in his paws, and unhealthy if he tries to lick them off. Check for these elements and wipe them off with a damp cloth.

As you can see, there are some easy changes you can make to keep your dog comfortable when winter hits. Take an inventory of how you care for your dog and make those changes so Fido will be happy and healthy all season!