Hi, hoomans! It’s Mozart, here to talk about my favorite time of year: winter! George and I absolutely love the snow. We like to run, and jump, and roll in it every day until it’s gone, and then we wait impatiently until the first snow arrives next year.
There’s a good chance your huge hound loves the snow, too, especially if he’s fluffy, too. Big, fluffy dogs just don’t seem to get as cold as the little pups. We like to think we could stay outside for hours. And maybe we can. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t always be wary of winter weather around your big doggos. Here are some tips to help you keep your huge hounds safe this winter.
Keep Us Indoors
Sure, dogs have survived for centuries outside in the snow, but that doesn’t mean the indoors aren’t better. Some of us have big, furry coats that may give the illusion that we’ll stay warm and toasty even on the coldest days. In reality, we’re all at risk for hypothermia, no matter how thick our coats may be.
Even when we’re stubborn and want to keep making pup angels in the snow, remind us that we need to be back inside with you, preferably lounging by the fire.
Check Water Sources
If we do get an extra-long play session outside, be sure we have access to clean water. After an energetic romp, we’ll need a drink, and there’s a good chance the outdoor bowl will be frozen. Check often to make sure the water is still liquid so we can get a good slurp before returning to our previously scheduled play.
Consider Protective Clothing
While some big dogs may not need the additional warmth, others with shorter or thinner fur may do well with a thick sweater or coat. Something to protect our paws from the snow and ice is also a good idea. Shoes or other foot covering is a must if we’ll walk over sidewalks that have been salted. The salt can cause skin irritation, get stuck between our toes, and lead to cracked paw pads without constant attention. If we aren’t wearing shoes, we might also experience poisoning if we lick our paws after a walk over the chemicals used to melt ice.
If the snow is still coming down pretty heavily, you may also consider a RainRover to keep us as dry as possible. Sure, we’ll probably go roll in that snow later, but you do the best you can, right?
Warm Up Our Beds
While cool tile floors are the perfect spot for a snooze on a hot summer day, they’re downright uncomfy during the winter. Make sure your pup has a warm bed to relax in, whether it’s a thick pillow with plenty of blankets or an elevated bed to keep them away from the chilly floor—or maybe a combination of both!
Check for Dangerous Snow Piles
We definitely want to jump into the nearest snow pile, but there could be dangers lurking within. Be sure to thoroughly check any drifts to make sure nothing harmful is hiding, such as gardening tools, sharp objects, or other things that could lead to injury.
Also, keep an eye on any drifts near fences and gates, as savvy dogs—even the best-behaved ones—might see this as an opportunity for escape. Just for an adventure, of course. Your pup would never leave you for good. However, the snow can mask familiar smells that would lead us back to you, so make sure we can’t get away in the first place.
We’re sure you have other helpful tips for keeping pups safe in winter. Join our private Facebook page and share your wisdom with us!
Expect big things!
George & Mozart