Chilly Dogs: A Guide to Keeping Your Pup Warm this Winter

What can you do to keep your dog warm in the great outdoor this winter?

I’m so glad you asked! Last week was absolutely frigid here in Raleigh. I know that some are more accustomed to cold weather, but here in the southern United States, we are not built for the cold! There was record snowfall all across the south east last week, and most of us were woefully unprepared.

Keeping yourself warm is obviously your first priority, but how can we make our pets comfortable too?

Keep it Short and Sweet

Even with their furry coats, dogs are not equipped for sub 30 degree weather. Now this may not cover all dogs, as some are better suited for the winter, but most dogs should not be outside in freezing temperatures.

To keep your pup warm, reduce their outdoor excursions in the cold. Usually, up to fifteen minutes is okay, but much more than that could be dangerous to your pups health. You can always opt for several shorter walks instead of your traditional long hikes.

Breed and Build Differences

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes! Some dogs, like huskies and other cold weather breeds are completely comfortable in the ice and snow. Other dogs, like your short-haired pit bulls or smaller pups like chihuahuas are not as prepared for the cold.

Small dogs get cold much faster than large dogs. Dogs with short hair tend to get cold faster too. Young puppies and senior dogs are more at risk in the cold as well. Make sure to take more precautions if you have a more cold sensitive dog.

Dogs with longer coats, double coats, or thicker fur are more likely to enjoy the cold weather. Larger dogs also maintain heat better too! If your dog is better suited for the cold, feel free to extend your walks and outdoor adventures.

Proper Protection

If you have a more cold sensitive pup, proper gear is essential. Here at Trailblazing Unleashed, we love a good dog sweater. Trace loves his sweaters and coats in the winter. He gets cold easily, so his outerwear helps us walk for longer.

Keeping your pet dry is also essential! If you know your dog could get wet, whether it be rain or snow, things can get chilly fast! More water resistant clothing can keep your pet warm for far longer.

Booties are also something to consider! We have never had success with them, but there is plenty of room for exploration. Booties can keep your pups feet warm and dry in extreme cold. They can also protect their feet from debris, salt, or ice that can damage dogs paw pads.

Tri-pawed Pups

Winter weather has a very different impact on dogs with a limb difference. It’s a lot harder to find outerwear that fits them properly, so sometimes we have to get creative! Sewing a sweater for your pet is an option if you’re willing to put in the work! We’ll have an article on that in the future.

Keeping your tri-pawed pet well groomed and outfitted with the proper gear is essential.

Grooming and Hygiene

Grooming is actually essential to staying warm and safe for dogs!

Trimming longer haired pups can keep ice and snow from building up in their fur. Keeping their paw pads trimmed helps reduce snow build up as well! It can also increase their traction and mobility indoors and out!

When grooming your dog at home, it is important to not trim too much! Dogs with 2 coats (like Huskies, Australian Shepherds, etc) can have their temperature regulation thrown off if you trim their lower coat. Make sure that you know what kind of coat your pup has and what hygiene fits them the best!

Nail trimming is also important for traction in cooler conditions. You can choose to do it yourself, or get it done at your local vet.

Once your pet is groomed, geared, and ready to rock, you both can enjoy a warm and active winter! Or if it’s too cold for you both, enjoy a few days inside.

Trailblaze on!

— Kaya, Trace, and Skully