How To Keep Your Dog Healthy This Winter?

Do you want good health for your dog this winter? If yes, first, you should know how to keep your dog healthy this winter. 

It’s that time when we all start worrying about our furry friends. So what can we do to make sure they’re healthy this winter? 

Keep them healthy during winter; you can do a few things. First and foremost, keep them hydrated! 

Make sure they drink plenty of water. Even if it seems they’re not drinking as much as usual. 

Secondly, make sure their food is nutritious and balanced.

How To Keep Your Dog Healthy This Winter?

Keeping your dog healthy this winter can be challenging. But there are a few things you can do to help. 

Here are four suggestions to keep your dog healthy and happy:

1) Make sure they have plenty of fresh water and good food. Dogs need about 60-80% of their body weight in water each day. 

So make sure their bowls are full! A high-quality diet is also essential, including enough proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. 

2) Keep them warm! Dogs are typically colder than humans. So ensure they have plenty of layers when it gets cold outside. 

Suppose you can’t keep them inside all the time. Then, use a pet heater or wrap them up in a warm blanket.

3) Protect their ears from frostbite! Dogs’ and cats’ ears are susceptible, especially in the winter. 

Apply petroleum jelly or baby oil to their ears every morning to prevent frostbite.

4) Exercise them! Dogs love to swim. Suppose they don’t have enough exercise. They’ll get cold much more quickly. 

Their mental health also depends on exercise and keeping them warm.

Feed Your Dog The Right Foods & Nutrients During The Wintertime

Winter nutrition is vital for your dog’s health and well-being.

Here are some essential tips: 

1. Feed them a high-quality diet with plenty of fresh, healthy food. This will keep them healthy and warm throughout winter.

2. Make sure to give them enough water. Suppose they’re suffering damp weather or being stuck inside.

Dogs need about 65 ounces of water daily. Avoid ice cream, sweets, and other sugary snacks to prevent weight gain and other health issues.

3. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may help improve joint health and prevent osteoarthritis. These supplements are available in pet shops and pharmacies.

4. Buy them some toys to keep them entertained during the winter. Puppies will enjoy chasing after rubber balls and squeaky toys.

In contrast, older dogs will enjoy tug-of-war games with their favorite stuffed animal or Kong toy.

Beware Of Dog Health Issues In Winter

The love of dogs for snow and ice is well known. But they need to be aware of their health during the winter months. 

Common winter dog health issues include hypothermia, frostbite, and pneumonia. 

Hypothermia occurs when a dog’s temperature goes below 95°F.

Frostbite occurs when the skin loses heat and blood flow, causing tissue death.

Pneumonia is a highly infectious respiratory illness that can quickly spread in cold environments. 

Perhaps your dog exhibits any of these signs of illness. Seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Keep Your Dog Warm In The Winter Periods.

Your dog could be happy to stay outside all day in the summer. But they might not be as excited to stay outside all day in the winter.

As the weather drops, keep your dog warm and comfortable.

In chilly weather, keep dogs inside with warm bedding and a heating pad under their body. 

If possible, provide them with a warm house or somewhere to go during the day.

Suppose your pet must spend time outdoors in cold weather. Make sure they have access to fresh water and a food dish. 

And finally, keep an eye on them. Maybe they start shaking uncontrollably or become anxious within. Bring them inside immediately!

What Can You Do To Keep Your Dog Warm In The Winter Season?

Do you know what to do if your dog gets cold?

Here is some advice to keep your pet warm this winter: 

  1. Give them plenty of toys and things to do. Anxious or bored dogs may behave destructively.
  2. Get them a snug coat or sweater. Make sure they fit well, so they don’t get overheated.
  3. Keep their bedding in a warm place. Give them frequent breaks to go outside for a potty break or fresh air.
  4. Make sure there is plenty of water available.
  5. Suppose your dog looks too uncomfortable or unwell to handle the cold. Take him to the doctor.

How To Prevent Your Dog From Getting Sick This Winter?

Keeping your dog healthy this winter is essential for both of your health.

Here are a few tips to help you keep your pup healthy: 

1. Make sure they have plenty of water and fresh air. Suppose they’re outside in cold weather. Please provide them with a warm bed and regular breaks.

2. Keep their vaccinations up-to-date, especially against cold viruses such as distemper and parvo. Vaccinations provide protection even if they can’t be given in person.

3. Keep food and water dishes clean and fresh. Give them only the recommended amount of food according to their size/age. 

Overfeeding may cause obesity, heart disease, and diabetes in dogs.

4. Make sure they have plenty of exercises. Even a short walk three times a day will help keep them active and happy.

5. Keep their nails trimmed and file down any ingrown nails.

Common Dog Illnesses And Cure In The Winter

Kennel Cough is a wintertime illness for dogs. A variety of viruses and bacteria cause this contagious respiratory illness. This affects dogs when they’re exposed to the virus or cold.

Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, fever, and body aches. Treatment includes antibiotics, rest, and water to prevent infection spread.

Another common dog illness in the winter is URI (Urinary Incontinence). This happens when a dog’s bladder can’t contain as much urine as before, usually due to age or injury.

Signs include:

  • Frequent trips to the bathroom.
  • Leaking during intercourse or while drinking water.
  • Increased thirst.

The vet can perform a diagnosis for urinalysis. Therefore, it will show high levels of protein and calcium in the urine.

How Often Should Dogs Take A Bath In The Winter?

Dogs are creatures of habit. So it’s vital to maintain their routine during the winter. 

A regular bath helps your dog stay clean and healthy. In addition, it will help him stay warm in cold weather. 

Make sure to bathe your dog at least once a week in the winter. Too little or too much bathing might be harmful.

Follow these tips for how often to bathe your dog in the winter: 

1. Start by determining how much water your dog needs. Depending on his size, he may need 1 or 2 cups water for a full bath. If he’s filthy, add an extra cup of water. 

2. Fill a large tub or bucket with enough water to cover your dog completely. Add some soap and stir it around until it’s dissolved. 

3. Put your dog in the tub and turn on the water.

4. Allow him to get used to the water for a few minutes. Then leave him alone while he soaks.

5. After he’s soaked long enough. You can start scrubbing with a washcloth or towel.

6. Use a comb to remove most of the dirt. Then use a soft brush to finish up.

7. You can also use an electric pet grooming machine to get your coat clean and shiny.

8. Once your dog is thoroughly clean, dry him with a blow-dryer or towel.

Keep Your Dog Vaccinated During The Winter

The cold weather is an excellent time to keep your dog vaccinated. But make sure they are up-to-date on their rabies vaccine. 

Dogs who aren’t vaccinated can get sick from rabies, which can be fatal. Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It can be fatal to dogs and people. 

Vaccinate your dog for rabies and distemper this winter. So you don’t have to worry about them becoming ill or dying from a virus.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Please provide your dog with sufficient shelter, food, and water during winter.

Check their teeth and ears, and vaccinate them against common dog illnesses.

Finally, get them to exercise by providing them opportunities to play in a safe environment.