There are those who think that, since their bodies are covered by layers of hair, dogs do not need any protection against cold. Nothing is further from reality; Like us, dogs that are directly exposed to low temperatures can easily fall ill. We can avoid this by following some simple rules, similar to the ones we apply to protect ourselves in winter.
We must know that all this depends largely on the breed, age and physical characteristics of the dog. For example, the Husky has infinitely more effective protection against cold than other breeds, given their dense coats of hair and strong anatomy. However, other dogs such as the Chihuahua are especially susceptible to these temperatures. In any case, all breeds need special care during the winter, especially if they are puppies or the elderly.
1. Avoid sleeping outdoors. No matter how large the size of the animal and how long its coat is, a dog is not at all protected against the cold if it spends the night outdoors. The animal must have a warm, dry, comfortable and soft space to sleep; otherwise, we are promoting the appearance of diseases such as influenza or pneumonia.
2. A good diet. It is essential, since during the cold months the dog needs to produce more energy. It is important that you eat foods rich in protein and vitamins to keep your bones and joints healthy.
3. Outerwear. While some dogs are fine with their fur, others need warm clothing or raincoats to maintain their body heat. Fortunately, the market offers us a great variety of models and prices. We must make sure that the animal feels comfortable with these accessories, checking that they are of its size and do not irritate its skin.
4. Beware of ice and snow. Dogs love to play in the snow, but we must take certain precautions, as chunks of ice can damage the pads of their feet. To avoid this, nothing better than some special boots; In addition, it is convenient that we check and wash the area when we get home.
5. Veterinary checks. Our pet needs frequent veterinary check-ups to keep his health in good condition. In this way we help avoid colds and other diseases.