02/04/2025
Beating the Freeze: Keeping Your Dog Happy Indoors and Safe Outdoors During Extreme Cold
Frosty days can be beautiful, but extreme cold poses real risks for our canine companions. Just like us, dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia. While some breeds are more tolerant of cold than others, all dogs need extra care when the temperature plummets. We'd love to share some tips to help keep your furry friend safe, happy, and entertained indoors during those frigid days.
Before we dive into indoor fun, let's talk safety. When venturing outside, even for short potty breaks, keep these tips in mind:
* Limit exposure: Shorten walks and potty breaks. If your dog starts shivering, whining, or lifting their paws, head back inside immediately.
* Dress them warmly: Consider a well-fitting dog coat or sweater, especially for small breeds, senior dogs, or dogs with thin coats.
* Protect their paws: Booties can protect paws from cold pavement, ice, and salt. If your dog resists booties, consider paw balm to prevent cracking and dryness. Always check their paws for ice buildup or cracking after being outside.
* Be aware of frostbite: Frostbite can occur quickly. Watch for pale skin, especially on the ears, paws, and tail. If you suspect frostbite, consult your vet immediately.
* Hypothermia is a threat: Shivering, lethargy, and weakness are signs of hypothermia. Warming your dog slowly is important if you think they may be suffering from this. Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
* Monitor their health: Cold weather can exacerbate existing health conditions like arthritis. Consult your vet for advice on managing your dog's health during the winter.
Now, we know being stuck inside can be a trying time for many dog owners. Keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated indoors is very important. A bored dog can become destructive or anxious, so it's crucial to provide plenty of enrichment.
* Hallway Fetch: No backyard? No problem! A long hallway can become your indoor fetch arena. Use soft toys to avoid damaging furniture. Just be mindful of slippery floors!
* Obedience Training: Winter is the perfect time to brush up on obedience skills. Practice commands like sit, stay, come, and down. This mental workout is tiring and rewarding for your dog. Working on your place command is another great command.
* Trick Training: Take training to the next level by teaching your dog new tricks. From "play dead" to "roll over," trick training is a fun way to bond with your dog and keep them mentally engaged.
* Scent Work: Engage your dog's powerful nose with scent work games. Hide treats or toys around the house and let your dog sniff them out. Winter is always a great time to take one of our Scent classes.
* Puzzle Toys: Puzzle toys are a great way to keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated. These toys require your dog to work for their food, providing a challenging and rewarding experience.
* Indoor Agility: Create a mini agility course in your living room using pillows, blankets, and chairs (make sure they are stable!). Guide your dog through the course, encouraging them to jump over, crawl under, and weave between obstacles.
* Interactive Games: Play hide-and-seek with your dog, or try a game of tug-of-war (with a durable toy!). These interactive games provide physical and mental stimulation.
* Chew Toys: Provide your dog with plenty of chew toys to keep them occupied and prevent boredom. Choose toys that are appropriate for your dog's chewing strength. Frozen Kongs can also be great.
One of the facts of living in Alberta is our cold winters. This winter we have been pretty lucky so far weather wise but this cold snap is a reminder that we need to have a plan in place for how to keep everyone safe and happy.
Certified Dog Trainer serving Central Alberta and area. Offering Group classes, Semi Private classes & Private lessons. Samantha is the owner of Canine Coaching.
