Tag Archive for: winter

How To Keep Your Cat Out Of The Christmas Tree

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How To Keep Your Cat Out Of The Christmas Tree

Keeping your cat out of the Christmas tree can be a challenge. Firstly, why do cats enjoy Christmas trees so much? There are a few reasons.

  • Your cat has never seen a Christmas tree before and the lights, ornaments, or even the tree itself is a new curiosity.
  • It’s a different tree than the one you had previously.
  • Cat’s like to climb and hide, Christmas trees are perfect for this.

Here are a few creative ways to keep your cat out of the Christmas tree this season.

1. Pet Playpen

If you have an adult cat or a cat that can jump high this method won’t work for you. While it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing option it’s great for kittens that can’t jump that high quite yet.

Playpens come in a variety of sizes. The one pictured above is the top rated one on Amazon at the time of writing.

Pet Rex Foldable Metal Pet Exercise Playpen on Amazon @ $38.05

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Pine Cones

This is a method I’ve heard about from friends. Get some pine cones (if you have pine trees in your backyard great!) and spray them lightly with apple cider vinegar. Cats generally dislike the smell of apple cider vinegar. It’s also why they don’t tend to get into the natural gnat traps I occasionally have to put out.

3. Cat Proof the Tree Stand

No matter which tree type you go with, real or artificial, a tree skirt is a great idea to hide the stand or pot. You’ll also want to wrap the base with tin foil. You can also use sand bags or bags of cat litter to help weigh down your artificial tree base in case kitty makes a leaping jump for the tree.

4. Citrus Oil Spray

Making a spray of water and orange, lemongrass, or citronella oil has proven effective at deterring some cats. You can also sprinkle orange peels around the base of your tree just make sure to replace them every day or two so they don’t get moldy and start attracting insects.

5. Avoid Edible Ornaments

Not only are these often not meant for cats to eat they provide a tempting incentive for climbing the tree. Avoiding edible ornaments is one way to make the tree less appealing to your cat.

And some bonus tips:

  • Avoid decorating with delicate, breakable, or sentimental ornaments until you know how you cat reacts to the tree. If your cat doesn’t seem interested in climbing but only batting at lower ornaments, place these up high and out of reach.
  • Pine sap and oils can be harmful to cats. Make sure you cover the pot to avoid your cat drinking the water. You can also cover it with a piece of foil for added security.
  • Avoid tinsel. Tinsel can cause gastrointestinal issues if ingested. This is also why you should avoid toys that use the shine of tinsel to attract cats. If you cat ingests tinsel do not try to remove it yourself. Call your veterinarian and seek emergency medical help.

Let us know if these tips were helpful in keeping your cat out of the Christmas tree this year in the comments.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers

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Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers

Looking for Christmas gifts for the pet lovers in your life? Here are our top 7 gifts we recommend you give this holiday season.

1. The Big One® Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw

These blankets have been an affordable and adorable staple in my gift-giving trove for years. But any pet themed blanket will do nicely. Sometimes Kohls will have these blankets on sale for $9.99. They wash up well, are a decent size, and are super soft. They rotate patterns year round so if you don’t see one you like make sure to check back.

https://media.kohlsimg.com/is/image/kohls/1944597_Blue_Dog?wid=1200&hei=1200&op_sharpen=1https://media.kohlsimg.com/is/image/kohls/1944597_Cats?wid=600&hei=600&op_sharpen=1

The Big One® Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw on Kohls @ $29.99

2. Cat Mom & Cat Dad Apparel

meow.com has a wide variety of both Cat Mom and Cat Dad apparel to choose from as well as accessories and mystery bundles. Perfect if you want the gift to truly be a surprise.

Spider Black Tie Dye Cat Mom Tee Meow

Spider Black Tie Dye Cat Mom SQ Tee @ $28.99

Dark Heather Vintage Cat Daddy Tee

Dark Heather Vintage Cat Daddy Tee @ $28.99

3. Dog Breed Soy Candle

ScriptedFragrance has a wide selection of hand-poured soy candles decorated with different dog breeds. The listing claims these candles can burn up to 50 hours.

Boxer Dog Breed Soy Candle in Signature Silhouette Glass image 0

Boxer Dog Breed Soy Candle in Signature Silhouette Glass on Etsy @34.00

4. Pet Memorial Gift

Has the pet lover in your life recently lost a beloved pet? Consider getting them a meaningful gift of a pet memorial. I like to use Etsy when looking for pet memorial gifts because of the wide variety of items they have made by various artisans. If you don’t have a photo of the pet handy consider a generic memorial gift such as the ones below.

Willow Tree Angel of Friendship, Sculpted Hand-Painted Figure on Amazon @ $28.95 Cat Version Here.

Willow Tree has a wide selection of different pet memorial figures. If the one above isn’t quite what you’re looking for check out their others.

To My Dog Mama Rainbow Bridge Pet Memorial Gifts Dog image 0

To My Dog Mama, Rainbow Bridge Pet Necklace on Etsy Starting @ $33.96 Cat Version Here.

Rainbow Bridge Paw Prism Crystal Suncatcher Rearview Mirror image 0

Rainbow Bridge Paw Prism Crystal Suncatcher on Etsy @ $24.00

5. Page-A-Day Calendar

I’ve gotten this as a gift before and have bought one every year since. It’s fun to see the cat pictures and read their little bios submitted by people.

365 Cats Page-A-Day Calendar 2022 on Amazon @ $15.99 Dog Version Here.

If you’re reading this in 2022 or beyond, Amazon conveniently provides a link to the newer product new the top of the listing. You can also search for 365 Cats Page-A-Day calendar [YEAR] to get the latest one.

6. Animal Adult Coloring Book

Coloring books aren’t just for kids! They also make great Christmas gifts for the adult pet lovers in your life. In the past few years coloring books have taken off as a great way to relieve stress and get creative. There are hundreds of animal adult coloring books out there. You’re sure to find one that matches your pet lovers personality.

100 Baby Animals: A Coloring Book on Amazon @ $8.99

Color Animals Coloring Book: Perfectly Portable Pages on Amazon @ $4.63

I own the Color Animals Coloring Book and while it is small it’s perfect to bring with you somewhere. Don’t forget to pick them up some colored pencils if you’re not sure if they have any!

7. Primitives By Kathy

Primitives By Kathy has some super cute household gifts with all different themes but we know why you’re here; you need a gift for a pet lover. Check out their Dog is Good collection for tea towels, socks, pouches, coasters, and more. They also have cat themed gifts as well.\

Dish Towel – Less People More Cats

Socks - I Like Big Mutts And I Cannot Lie - One Size Fits Most - Cotton, Nylon, Spandex

Socks – I Like Big Mutts And I Cannot Lie

If you don’t want to order directly from the supplier, Amazon has a much smaller selection but does have some items.

And a bonus…

8. Something for Their Pet

This might seem counterintuitive but there are some people who really don’t want or need anything for the holidays. I’m one of those people! Unless you know I’ve been eyeing something I would be more than happy if you got me something for my cats – assuming it’s something appropriate and safe for them. Most of my close friends who would do this know I don’t do bells or tinsel on cat toys because of the potential choking hazards and that I’m very selective in my treats. If you’re unsure, just ask! I’d also love if a friend asked me what they could get me for my pets.

Do you already own any of these Christmas gifts for pet lovers? Let us know which ones are your favorite or if you plan to purchase any of these this holiday season in the comments below.

How To Protect Your Dog’s Paws on Winter Walks

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How To Protect Your Dog’s Paws on Winter Walks

Protecting your dogs paws on winter walks is important to keep your pet healthy and safe this winter season. But how do you protect their paws? Here are a few tips to protect those paws.

1. Paw Wax

There are many different types of paw wax out there but one I enjoy is Musher’s Secret. It’s also great to use on dry elbows!

Musher’s Secret is a paw wax made from natural food-grade waxes and oils designed to condition and protect your pet’s paws. Yes! This also works on cats. It’s fast=drying, non-allergenic, and non-staining which are huge pluses. You can also use it during the summer to add another layer of protection to your pets paws when out for walks in case you have to cross any hot pavement.

Buy Musher’s Secret on Amazon

2. Dog Boots

Dog boots take some time getting used to but can protect your dogs paws from more than paw wax can. There are numerous types of dog boots out there so make sure to do research before purchasing to determine if they’re a suitable fit for you and your dog.

Polar Trex™ Winter Dog Boots

Buy Polar Trex™ Winter Dog Boots on Ruffwear

Buy Pawz Dog Boots on Amazon

3. Wipe Those Paws…

When you dog comes in from a walk, make sure to wipe their paws off to get rid of any ice melt and other debris that may have gotten in between their toes. You can use a wet paper towel or any dog grooming wipe.

4. Or Try a Portable Paw Washer

You should still wipe your dogs paws when they come inside but if you know you’ll be out for awhile, consider a portable paw washer. Ideal for mud this will also work on some winter debris. This one comes in three sizes. Just make sure to bring a towel with you.

Buy Dexas MudBuster Portable Dog Paw Washer on Amazon

5. Check Surroundings

Besides waxes and boots you should be vigilant when walking your dog. This will help you avoid encountering potential hazards. Some things to note are:

  • Don’t walk in front of stores: Most stores don’t use pet-safe ice melt. Non pet-safe ice melt is toxic to pets.
  • Stick to a known path: This can help you avoid any holes/gaps that may be hidden by snow.
  • Avoid ice: Ice is slippery for both you and your canine. Walking around ice patches you see can prevent a fall.

Were any of these tips helpful? Let us know if we missed anything and how you protect your dogs paws on winter walks in the comments below.

How To Keep Your Pets Warm This Winter

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How To Keep Your Pets Warm This Winter

Pets love to be warm in the winter. Here are some ways to help keep them warm.

1. Heated Bed/Blanket/Pad

I have a heated bed and let me tell you, it’s wonderful in the winter. I can climb into a warm bed and when I wake up I’m nice and toasty. Honestly makes it hard to get out of bed. I also know that my pets love it as well. So much so that I have three heated blankets, two heated pads, and a heated cat bed for them to use year-round if they so desire. They understand that if they lay on any of them when I notice I’ll turn it on for them.

K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed 20″ on Amazon @ $92.99

K&H Pet Products Heated Thermo-Kitty Mat Reversible Cat Bed on Amazon, Starting @ $25.35

There are lots of different brands to choose from but most of the ones I own are from K&H. You can find their dog products here.

2. Keep that heated bed off the floor and away from drafts

The floor is cold, especially if it isn’t carpeted and drafts are no fun either. Even if your pet bed isn’t heated, make sure it stays off the floor and away from

3. Or add another blanket

Not only does adding another blanket provide additional comfort it provides warmth. Any blanket will do, it doesn’t have to be pet specific. If you do want a pet specific blanket, Tall Tails makes super soft ones.

4. Sweaters

Not all pets like sweaters but if yours does, great! Sweaters are a cute way to add an extra layer of warmth to your pet especially when they’re outside. They make sweaters for all sizes of dogs so you’re sure to find one on the market that fits. Go check out the ones on Amazon, Canada Pooch, or Chilly Dog Sweaters.

5. Don’t shave down to the skin

Cats and dogs are built to withstand some cold temperatures. Some breeds were even designed for it like Huskies. Don’t shave your pet down to their skin during winter as this will remove the warm, protective layer fur provides against the cold.

6. Wipe off paws when your pets come back inside

You know what it’s like to have the snow get into your boot and soak your sock. Imagine if you weren’t able to take off your boots and socks? Whenever your pet comes in from the snow, make sure to wipe their paws off to remove and ice and snow. If you’ve just come in from a walk, this is always a great idea in case they have gotten any ice melt on their paws.

7. If it’s too cold for you it’s probably too cold for your pets

Even if your dog enjoys being out in the snow or is stubborn to come in, if temperatures drop too low your pet can freeze. Make sure you keep track of how long your dog has been outside and keep an eye on them to notice if they start becoming disoriented. Always let them back inside when they want to be let back inside. If you know your dog doesn’t like snow, keep trips outside to a minimum.

New to Northern Colorado and not used to snow? Read up on our cold weather precautions for pets.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Dogs

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Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Dogs

Not sure what to get the dog who has everything? We have you covered. From light up toys to personalized gifts these Christmas gifts for dogs are sure to bring hours (or minutes depending on your dog) of fun!

1. Nite Ize Flashflight LED Dog Discuit

Have a dog who loves to be outside but struggle to find that pesky Frisbee? Look no further! This Discuit lights up and is easy to spot not only in the snow but also when it’s darker outside.

Nite Ize Flashflight LED Dog Discuit on Amazon @ $16.09

2. Advent Calendar

Most pet stores, large box stores included, don’t list their annual advent calendars online unless they have a surplus of them. That means you’ll have to start checking stores around early November if you want to snag one of these hot ticket items. If you’re looking for a cat version of these, check out our Top 7 Christmas Gifts for Cats.

Honey i'm home advent calendar Honey Im Home UN delivery | Cornershop by Uber

Honey I’m Home Countdown Christmas

7 Best Pet Advent Calendars 2020 - Dog & Cat Advent Calendars

Himalayan Pet Supply Best Friend’s Advent Calendar

3. Jiminy’s Cricket Protein Soft & Chewy Dog Training Treats

I’ll admit, I’ve tried one of these. Was it the best thing I’ve ever eaten? No. Was it the worst? Not by far. If you’re looking for a treat that uses a novel protein Jiminy’s Cricket treats might be for you as they use crickets as their protein source. They are perfect if somebody you know it getting a dog this holiday season as they’re the perfect size for training treats.

Jiminy’s Cricket Protein Sweet Potato and Pea Soft & Chewy Dog Training Treats on Amazon $9.95

4. Spunky Pup Bow Blaster

You’ve heard of Chuckit! but have you heard of the Bow Blaster? It works like a slingshot and launches balls farther than you could with just your arm. Great for the dog who loves tennis balls.

Bow Blaster | Spunky Pup

Bow Blaster @ $24.99

5. DogWine

This isn’t the same wine you buy off the shelf. Made with filtered water, organic bacon, and organic salmon oil this wine is 100% dog safe.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1382/2223/products/7-20PetWinery0525_43f8b302-c9ee-4634-81c4-4299f2683c7b.jpg?v=1594739073

FetchMe Noir on PetWinery.com @ $9.99

Also check out their DIY ice cream bar for both cats and dogs.

6. Personalized Letter Dog Toy

These cute personalized letter dog toys are sure to be a hit in any dogs stocking. Comes in two sizes for both small and large dogs.

Letter Personalized Dog Toy Christmas Letter To Santa Squeaker image 0

Personalized Dog Toy Letter on Etsy @ $15.00

7. HuggleHounds Christmas Toys

HuggleHound toys are best for dogs who are more gentle with their toys. Each year they release new Christmas and Hanukkah toys in all sizes. This year they’ll be replacing their Starlight Reindeer with a Starlight Unicorn.

HUGGLEHOUNDS® HOLIDAY SANTA KNOTTIES — Agri Feed Pet Supply

HuggleHounds Website

Now that you’ve filled your pets stocking you probably don’t want to have to go and buy new toys for a bit. Here’s how you can keep your pets toys looking like new. Did you pick any of these toys up? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats

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Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats

Looking for a Christmas gift for a cat? We have 7 gifts you need to buy to fill up your cats stocking.

1. Yeowww!!!! Tide Candy Cane

I’m a huge fan of Yeowww!!!! toys. They’re a bit pricey but they are durable and can withstand the numerous bite marks, bunny-kicks, and cat slobber. Worth picking up any of their toys, not just their Christmas toys.

Yeowww!!!!! – 100% Organic Catnip CAT Toy – Tide Candy Cane – Made in USA  On Amazon @ $14.50

2. Advent Calendar

Most pet stores, large box stores included, don’t list their annual advent calendars online unless they have a surplus of them. That means you’ll have to start checking stores around early November if you want to snag one of these hot ticket items. Last year I purchased the Merry and Bright Collection from PetSmart. As with human advent calendars, these came with 25 different toys – some hard, soft, and tinsel toys (those were thrown away). Providing my cats with a new fun toy each day leading up until Christmas.

Advent Calendars For Cats 2020 | POPSUGAR Pets

Merry and Bright Collection from PetSmart

Purina Fancy Feast also did a food advent calendar which is ideal for a pet owner already feeding Fancy Feast. I found these at PetSmart and Target. It does appear they had an online exclusive offering last year that included a small 2020 ornament.

 

Fancy Feast Feastivites Advent Calendar For Cats 2020 | POPSUGAR Pets

Purina Fancy Feast Advent Calendar

3. Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House – XL – Wondershop™

Each year, Target puts out new seasonal cardboard cat scratchers. They always have a few online exclusives so make sure to check online if you don’t see the one you want in store. These are fairly sturdy and are easy to assemble – I do recommend having some extra tape on hand. Currently I still have last years Christmas theater, even if it has a few chunks taken out of it.

Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House - XL - Wondershop™ - image 2 of 9

Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House – XL – Wondershop™ on Target @ $34.99

4. CatWine

This isn’t the same wine you buy off the shelf. Made with filtered water, organic catnip, and organic salmon oil this wine is 100% cat safe.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1382/2223/products/7-20PetWinery0524.jpg?v=1594737655

Purrgundy on PetWinery.com @ $9.99

Also check out their DIY ice cream bar for both cats and dogs.

5. Personalized Letter Cat Toy

I love Etsy because of all the fun things you can find on it, handmade by local artisans. These letter toys are sure be a favorite as they’re catnip infused.

Letter Personalized Cat Toy Letter to Santa Cat Toy Catnip Toy image 0

Letter Personalized Cat Toy on Etsy @ $10.00

If you don’t like the letter, the seller offers a variety of personalized cat toys for multiple holidays.

6. Christmas Lights Cat Toy

Does kitty like to get into the tree? Why not give them their own string of lights! This string is free from electrical components so they can play until their heart is content.

Christmas Lights Cat Toy Organic Catnip Holiday Cat Toy image 2

Christmas Lights Cat Toy on Etsy, Starting @ $14.00

7. Kitty Coal

For the “naughty” kitty on the list why not stuff their stocking with coal?

Coal Cat Toys Naughty Kitty's Christmas Coal Cat Toy image 0

Okay, okay this isn’t real coal but rather a cute catnip toy shaped like a piece of coal.

Coal Cat Toys on Etsy @ $20.00

Now that you stocked up on Christmas gifts for your cat, you probably don’t want to have to go and buy new toys for a bit. Here’s how you can keep your pets toys looking like new.

Doggy Eggnog 

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Doggy Eggnog 

Eggnog is a wonderful holiday treat, this year share some with your dog! Here is a quick dog eggnog recipe you can try at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 container of plain, Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 jar of baby food (in a dog friendly flavor)
  • 1/4 cup of water or milk
  • 1 egg
  • Dog treats as toppings

Directions:

  1. Place all ingredients in a blend and blend until frothy
  2. Add your toppings
  3. Give your dog a small serving

Doggy Eggnog Recipe

Did you try out our doggy eggnog recipe? Let us know @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. Check out our Thanksgiving treats and our Homemade Peanut Butter cookies.

Cold Weather Precautions for Pets

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With winter weather upon us, we need to ensure we are taking care to ensure our pets are properly protected against the cold weather and elements. Many things are simply overlooked by pet owners however there are something’s that are not understood by us humans. Yes…..pets do get cold. They feel the cold and they do suffer from cold environments.

admin-ajaxPlease, take a moment to read some tips for cold weather precautions and how to keep your pet safe and warm this winter season:

  • Caution with the Salt. Many snow laden cities utilize salt in order to melt frozen snow. Please note that this is very irritating to your pet’s paws. So when taking Fido for a walk, please make sure you don’t parade him thru salted areas. If he does get some on his paws, wipe them up when you return home.
  • Keep your pet hydrated. They will still require a lot of water during the winter months. They burn a large amount of energy in an effort to keep warm. Access to water all year is a must. If your pet is outside for a few hours, leave the water but remember to not put the water in a metal bowl as it will cause your pet’s tongue to stick and freeze to that surface.
  • Pets love to be indoors, despite what some humans think. Fido is not at his happiest when he is locked outside, especially when it is freezing out. Yes, dogs love walks and parks and playing but if you’re with them! Don’t leave your pup outside in the cold. Wind-chill can threaten your dog’s life and he can suffer frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Antifreeze is a NO NO! Please pay close attention to any that may be lurking on the ground. It tastes sweet and will lure your pet towards it. Clean it up! It is toxic to ALL animals.
  • Provide your dog with a warm place to sleep. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, some well-intentioned pet owners forget that a tile or linoleum floor or heck, even a carpeted floor is simply not enough sometimes. The floors are extremely cold and are especially troublesome for a senior pet.

These are just a few cold weather precautions to keep your pet safe as the temperature drops. So as you are getting your house, your car and your family ready for the cold weather, stop and think about your pets! And remember, cold weather usually means New Years and fireworks are right around the corner. Here are some Fireworks Safety Tips to keep in mind.

Cold Weather Safety Tips

Tell us – what are you doing this year to keep your pet safe from the cold?

Tips To Get Your Dog To Go Outside in the Cold_Header

Tips to Get Your Dog to Go Outside in the Cold

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Tips To Get Your Dog To Go Outside in the Cold_Header

 

 
We all know it’s not very pleasant to use a cold bathroom in the middle of winter.  So, it’s no surprise to know that our dogs feel the same discomfort when it’s cold outside.  Often dogs refuse to go potty outside in the cold or rain. This causes them to hold it all day and have accidents in the house.  This is harmful to your pet and not to mention bad for your rugs, that’s why we have a few tricks to get you through!
 
Want to watch this blog instead of read? Check out our video below.

Top 3 Tips to Get Your Dog to Go Outside in the Cold

Shovel a Spot

Uncover a small grassy area for them to use, it should be big enough for them to turn around a few times and sniff the area.  It’s best to do this in an area that they have used before. They will get the “green light” to go if they can pick up the scent of past potties. Also, make sure to bundle them up in jackets and sweaters that fit snug to avoid accidents.  You may want to invest in little booties for them as well for days where the ground is frozen.

Is your dog already a pro at going outside in the cold? Need an extra hand during those mid-day potty breaks? We have recommended schedules for dogs.

 

Give Out Treats

You can help train your dog to go on command by using cue words such as “Go Potty or Time to Go”. Cue words help them know when it’s time to potty.  In my house, we say, “Let’s go do a good boy” to let our dog Rigsby know when it’s time head out for a bathroom break.   Once you use the verbal cues, make sure to dole out treats. It may be cold for you outside as well but stand right next to them to hand them out as soon as they go.  Don’t until they return to the doorway. They may think they treat is because they are coming to you and not because of the potty break.  

brown and black long coated small dog

c: tamasp

Make an Indoor Potty Place

What if the weather is terrible outside for weeks and your dog refuses to use potty outside? You can make an indoor bathroom for your dog. Be aware that if you do this, it can be very hard for them to be house trained to use the bathroom outside again.
 
It does, make sense for some families to set up an exercise pen or baby gate in the garage/laundry room. This makes a special area for them use. Put real grass bathroom patches or a pee pad in the area. Your dog will know that they have a safe space to use in the home and leave your carpets safe from accidents.
 
It can be hard on pets and pet parents in the winter months. Following these tips will help you get through until spring. Don’t forget to let us know any tips that work for you in the comments!
How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?_Header

How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?

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How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?_Header

Winter does not have to put a damper on you and your dog’s activities, but how do you know when it is too cold outside? Dog walks provide health benefits when done in the proper conditions. There are a variety of factors that influence when it is too cold to walk your dogs. Here are some general guidelines.

 

Want to learn more in video format? Check out the video below.

Factors

There are a few factors to account for when determining if it’s too cold to walk your dog. They are fur length, size and body condition, and health conditions. As with all of these, make sure you are following general winter weather precautions.

Fur Length

What type and length of fur your dog has can impact how tolerant to cold he is. Short haired or shaved dogs have less fur to protect them from the cold and wind. Which means, they do not tolerate winter walks as well. For shorter haired dogs, do not walk them outside when the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) without a coat or sweater. Long and thick haired dogs are more tolerant to the cold. These dogs can handle walks outside in the cold, but these walks should be short.

Size and Body Condition

Small dogs tend to have a harder time adjusting to the cold. This is because they are closer to the ground and generally have short hair. These dogs should not walk outside in temperatures below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Even with a sweater or coat.

Larger dogs are higher off the ground and tend to have more healthy body fat compared to smaller dogs. This helps larger dogs be more tolerant to the cold.

Body condition is also an important factor in determining how cold is too cold. Fat helps insulate the body and keep your dog warm. Many dogs, particularly hunting dogs, have fat under their skin. This is why labs can jump into freezing lakes. For this reason, dogs who are underweight should not be outside for extended periods of time in the cold.

brown short coated dog wearing red and white polka dot shirt sitting on snow covered ground

Health Conditions

Many health conditions impact how your dog will react to the cold. When the temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, dogs with arthritis or dogs with hip dysplasia should only be walked for short periods of time. The cold tends to exacerbate these conditions and will make your dog extra sore and grumpy. Other health conditions, like thyroid issues, affect your dog’s ability to regulate his body temperature. Dogs with these conditions should not be walked for long periods of time in the cold. Talk to your vet to see if any health conditions your dog has can be affected by the cold.

Ways to Make the Cold Better

You should never send your dog outside if it’s too cold but what if you have to. If you must go outside with your dog make sure you are in and out as quick as possible. You should supervise your dog the entire time. Also consider getting some of the following items to make the bitter cold less bitter.

Conclusion

There are a variety of factors to consider when deciding how cold is too cold to walk your dog. In general, use caution when the temperature is below freezing. Keep walks short and brisk to help prevent your dog from getting too cold. Always be aware of other winter weather dangers, such as ice and sidewalk salt.