Can a dog feel cold?

Snuggled under a blanket with a warm cup of tea and your dog cozily cuddled up beside you. That’s what cold weather brings. But did you know that your dog can get cold too? In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know. How can you tell if your dog is cold, and what can you do to prevent it? We’ll give you tips for keeping your four-legged friend warm and comfortable during the colder months.

How breed and age affect dogs in cold weather.

Just like people, some dogs feel the cold more than others. Breeds such as Huskies are naturally built for cold weather conditions, while a Chihuahua is much less able to tolerate them. This difference is due to the dog’s size and coat. A Husky has a thick coat and stands higher off the ground, while a Chihuahua has a thin coat and is closer to the cold floor. Various factors determine why some dogs can tolerate the cold better than others. Puppies and older dogs are also more likely to be affected by the cold because their body temperature is less well regulated.

Is your dog cold?

If your dog is cold, he will certainly let you know. He may whine or start trembling on his paws. In more serious cases, your dog may have difficulty breathing, have a weak pulse, or withdraw and respond less to his surroundings. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to pay close attention and act quickly to keep your dog warm and comfortable.

A combination of cold and wet weather.

During the winter months, it is not only colder, but it also rains more often. The combination of low temperatures and precipitation can make your dog feel even colder. Does your dog enjoy swimming? Then be extra careful during the cold season. Cold water can cause your dog to suffer from cramps or even show signs of hypothermia, which can be dangerous.

Keeping your dog safe in snow and ice.

Even when it is cold outside, your dog still needs his daily walk to relieve himself. But how can you make sure this is safe? When there is snow and ice, roads and paths are often treated with salt, so make sure you clean your dog’s paws thoroughly after the walk. It can also help to apply a layer of petroleum jelly (without fragrances or colorants) to his paws before going out. This prevents ice from building up and forming clumps between your dog’s toes.

What should you do if your dog is hypothermic?

As soon as you notice that your dog is hypothermic, take him immediately to a warm place, such as the living room. Make sure he warms up gradually; do not put him in a hot bath or place him directly next to a heater, as this can cause shock. Give your dog lukewarm sugar water to help restore his strength. If he is wet, dry him thoroughly and make him comfortable with blankets. Do not hesitate to call the vet for advice. A dog’s normal body temperature is between 38 and 39 degrees. When it drops below 37.5 degrees, this is considered hypothermia.

So keep in mind that the combination of cold and wet weather brings additional risks. Make sure your dog can enjoy his daily walks safely and comfortably, even when there is snow and ice. And if you suspect that your dog is cold, do not hesitate to intervene and warm him up.

By taking good care of your dog and protecting him from the cold, you can help ensure he has a pleasant winter.

Keep your dog extra warm with a blanket from Lex&Max. Perfect for your four-legged friend to snuggle under after a walk!