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6 Winter Care Tips for Your Dog

Preparing your dog for the winter months is essential in maintaining their health. When temperatures drop it’s important to adjust your pet’s daily routine so you can keep them happy, safe and comfortable during this cold season.

Here are six Winter Care Tips you can follow to make this your pet’s best winter ever!

1. Temperature

Some dog breeds are equipped with thick, double coats that keep them warm in the colder weather. However, dogs with finer coats may need to wear a sweater or coat when out for winter walks. A good coat should reach from the neck to the base of the tail and also protect their belly. Always bear in mind that coats will not prevent frostbite on the ears, feet or tail, so even with a cosy coat, don’t keep your short haired dog out too long in cold temperatures!

Winter Care Tips for Your Dog

2. Moisturise

Dry and cold weather can cause dry and flaky skin for your pet. You can help prevent damage to their skin by adding a skin and coat supplement to their food.

Additionally, try our Pet Spray to help keep your pet’s skin and coat revitalised and healthy. If you find your pet’s paws are dry or cracking, you can also apply Pretty Paw Protection Spray when needed.

Winter Care Tips for Your Dog

3. Diet

Although dogs may need an extra layer in winter, make sure it comes from their coat and not a layer of fat! Being attentive to your dog’s activity level and adjusting their food accordingly can help maintain their health throughout the winter. A high-quality diet will help ensure a healthy coat and good energy for the colder months.

Winter Care Tips for Your Dog

4. Hydration

Dogs can dehydrate just as quickly in winter as summer. If your dog spends time outdoors in your garden, make sure they have access to a water bowl – check it often and any break ice that may form on top.

Winter Care Tips for Your Dog

5. Grooming

Ensuring that you dog has a clean and well-groomed coat will keep them insulated throughout the winter months. This is particularly important if your pet spends a lot of time in the garden. After bathing, ensure dry your dog thoroughly, especially before allowing them outside. You can shop our shampoos, brushes and Home Grooming Range here.

Winter Care Tips for Your Dog

6. Paw Care

During colder months, pets can suffer from cracked paw pads. If your dog has furry feet, trim the hair that grows between their pads to prevent ice build-up. The Paw Tidy Battery-Operated Trimmer is the perfect tool for this!

Winter salt on pathways and roads can also burn your dog’s pads, so after walks always rinse or use Cleaning Wipes to remove any salt from your dog’s paws – you don’t want them licking it off as this can make them poorly! If your dog shows signs of discomfort when walking outside on frozen or salted surfaces, consider using dog booties to protect their paws.

Winter Care Tips for Your Dog