If your furry friend gets cold quickly or sleeps out in a dog house, the low temperatures can easily disturb their sleeping patterns, making it too uncomfortable to drift off into doggy dreamland. Here are some precautions you can take to ensure your canine companion stays healthy and comfortable during some especially chilly nights.
Floor Covering & Straw
Starting off, you want to be sure the foundation, the floor of your pup’s doghouse, is protected. Concrete can get extremely cold, so it can be almost impossible for your pooch to stay comfortable and warm if laying on it. If you haven’t already, you’ll want to cover the concrete with some carpet. To make things even more heated, or if there’s absolutely no way you can install carpet anytime soon – use some straw. Be sure the straw is free of seeds and leaves, so they don’t get stuck to Fido’s coat
Warm Beds & Heating
Placing a cozy warm dog bed in your canine’s doghouse will do wonders. You can put hot water bottles underneath it to deliver more heat to your pooch, or even purchase a heated dog bed. If you’re not sure that’s in your price range or something you want to commit to right now, heating pads are a great alternative. They’re effective in keeping your furry friend cozy and warm while also consuming a minimal amount of energy and money out of your wallet. Another source of heat to consider adding to Fido’s dog cave are heat lamps, just be sure to keep all the wires and gadgets out of paws reach.
Thick & Soft Blankets
This one may sound too simple but think about the vast difference a fluffy blanket can make for you. Wool blankets are where you should be looking since they provide your canine with an adequate amount of heat. Until you’re able to get your four-legged friend their very own blanket, go through some of your old ones and add those to Fido’s doghouse in the meantime.
Use Draft Shields
Draft shields can be installed under the doors or through the windows of a doghouse. They’re incredibly effective in keeping cold breezes out while keeping all the warmth in. Draft shields are typically a cheaper solution when trying to warm up your pup’s doghouse.
Pay Attention to Fido’s Diet
During the winter season feeding your pooch becomes increasingly more critical. Not that it isn’t something important already; just during the winter, the more calories Fido consumes, the more he can burn them – using them to stay warm. Although, if your pup isn’t outside that much due to the cold, they’ll need fewer calories due to the decrease in physical activity.
Consider Warm Clothing for Your Pup
Many pet parents find the idea of clothing their dog hysterical. But they can be extremely practical, especially in the winter. When you layer up in the cold, you feel a lot warmer. The same goes for your canine companion. Be sure whatever articles of clothing you choose aren’t too tight, fitting Fido comfortably, and don’t cause them to overheat. Doggy booties are also a great idea as they prevent ice from accumulating on your pup’s paws. They also can help regulate your pooch’s heat.
The cold weather can be brutal for your pooch, not only putting them at risk of health risks but also preventing them from sleeping – which can also negatively impact both their physical and mental health. Taking the necessary precautions to ensure Fido is warm all winter long will ensure their safety and overall happiness.
