Can dogs withstand the cold?

Can dogs withstand the cold, is a question that many people ask themselves because these animals are protected by fur that can be practically protect from anything. Also, it is true that somehow, their fur protects them from the cold, but this doesn’t mean that it’s enough. Continue reading to find out why.

It seems logical to think that an animal with fur is well equipped for the cold and it wouldn’t need any clothes to keep warm, but this is not true. Just like humans, animals can have a hard time maintaining their body heat at low temperatures.

How does the cold affect pets?

The cold can make your dog sick, just like it does to humans. Plus, moisture can cause their ears to get wet and if they are not dried out, they can get otitis. So you must pay close attention to your dog and frequently check their ears, especially during the coldest time of the year.

In addition to having ear problems, dogs that live in very cold or snowy regions can have problems with their paws. The pads on your dog’s paw are a very sensitive. Therefore, you must protect them, especially when you take him out in snow, ice or in a very cold and humid place.

The best way to protect them is to apply moisturizers or Vaseline before, during and after you go out for a walk in the snow or extremely freezing places. Aloe vera is also very good for taking care of their paw pads.

Should I buy clothes for my pet in case he gets cold?

Yes, if you live in a cold place or in a place with hard winters. Your dog should not only have a cozy blanket, but also a thermal suit for going outside in the cold. Although many think that dog fashion can be flashy and overwhelming, that’s not always the case. When it is cold, clothing is necessary for your pet.

Remember that one of the areas where they feel the cold the most is at the end of their backs and at the top of their thighs, so make sure their clothes cover that part as well.

How do I know if my dog ​​is cold?

The first thing you should know is that it’s true that all dogs are covered in fur and fat that protects from the cold, but not all have the same amount. So, some are more prone and sensitive to the cold than others.

For example, Chihuahuas have shorter fur than other breeds, and because of their size, they also have less fat. Therefore, it’s very important to take good care of smaller dogs and puppies.

If you don’t have a Chihuahua and you’re not certain if the type of dog you have gets cold, then you must observe if he has the following symptoms:

• Shivering. If he shivers after he has been outside for a while, it is possible that you are in a cold-weather area, and it bothers him. Try to go to a more sheltered location and share your body heat with him to see if he stops shivering. If this happens at home, let him have a blanket to protect him from the cold and make him feel comfortable.
• Drowsiness. If he seems more tired than usual or just wants to sleep curled up in a ball, maybe he is trying to warm himself up and sleep so that the time passes and can forget the cold feeling.
• Slow breathing. If your dog is breathing more slowly than normal it may be happening because of the cold weather.
• Dry Skin. Low temperature dries the skin. If you notice that your dog’s skin is drier than normal, you should check if the cold is causing it. If so, then you should cover him up.

As a dog owner, it’s your responsibility to observe your dog and protect him from the cold. Remember that although he is an animal, his needs are very similar to yours.