Top Tips For Looking After Your Dog In Winter

With temperatures plummeting today, it's expected to be freezing in most parts of the UK with warnings of snow and ice.

Just like the summer, a dog’s needs change through the winter season.

With that in mind, Open Study College, a distance learning provider offering courses in animal care, has revealed tips on how to look after your dogs in the winter months.

🐶Look after your dog’s paws

Regularly trim and clean your dog’s foot fur to prevent ice from forming on their paws during walks. On walks, consider buying some dog booties to protect them further - we wear shoes when it’s cold, so why shouldn’t dogs!

🐶 Keep your dog warm

Make sure your dog is at the right temperature, especially if they’re a smaller breed. Keep a warm, insulated bed off the ground and away from any draughty areas, such as a door. Giving them extra blankets or dog-sized jumpers will also help them keep warm during the winter nights.

🐶 Be aware of winter hazards

When it snows this year, consider shovelling a patch of grass so your dog can go to the toilet comfortably and not get too cold. Rock salt is also a danger for dogs as it can irritate their paws and if ingested, upset their stomach. In addition, antifreeze is tasty for dogs and is toxic.

🐶 Winter food

The festive food is in the shops and onto our plates. Be cautious of giving your dog anything out of the ordinary - and remember: chocolate, Christmas cake, mince pies, nuts and blue cheese are all hazardous to dogs.

🐶 Keep them active

If, like us, your dog doesn’t want to venture outside in the cold, keep them active indoors. Provide them with lots of toys to play with and keep them occupied to avoid a bored dog.

🐶Make them visible

Now the clocks have gone back, the nights are getting longer. Attach a light to your dog’s collar so they can be seen when walking in the nighttime or early mornings. Alongside this, make sure your dog has great recall to ensure they can come back to you when you want them and avoid them getting lost.