It's already December and many people are in the Christmas spirit, but with Advent comes the onset of winter. Cold and wet weather permeates the short days. The first thing you do in the morning is grab your winter jacket, because nobody wants to freeze. But how can I make sure that my four-legged friend doesn't freeze, and do dogs even get cold? You can find out all of this in our guide article.
Contents:
- How to tell if your dog is cold
- My dog is always cold
How to tell if your dog is cold
Just like us humans, our dogs also show when they are cold. The first clear sign is when your dog starts to shiver. It is therefore particularly important to pay attention to the first symptoms of cold and to prevent hypothermia from occurring in the first place.
Is your dog suddenly walking more slowly? Do you have the feeling that he is not feeling well? This can also be a first sign of cold. When dogs are cold, they usually adopt a tense posture. You should also pay attention if your dog suddenly seeks out your physical proximity or other sources of warmth.
Typical signs that your dog is cold are :
Restlessness: whining or general malaise
Trembling: Ragged fur combined with trembling
Cramped posture: tucked tail and raised back
Lack of motivation: slow and sleepy
My dog is always cold
First of all, it can be said that every dog is different and the way they feel the cold varies accordingly. Our dogs have long been used to our homes, their dry air and warm heaters. In addition, depending on the breed, some dogs do not have a protective winter coat and therefore some dogs get cold more quickly than others.
If your dog is constantly cold, it could be because of its breed. Unfortunately, small, short-haired dog breeds with thin fur get cold very quickly. If your dog is constantly cold, it could also be because of its health, age or weight. Both thinner and older dogs often get cold more quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs get cold when they sleep?
Yes, dogs can get cold when they sleep. It is therefore important that your dog has a cozy, warm place to sleep during the cold months. The room temperature should be between 18° C and 22° C.
If your dog is sensitive to the cold, a blanket is usually enough. Dog blankets that are breathable are best. You can also cover your dog when he sleeps. Make sure that your dog's sleeping area is adapted to his individual needs. Some dogs need their space when sleeping, while others like to sleep covered up.
What can I do if my dog is cold in the apartment?
Dogs can also get cold in the apartment. If your dog gets cold in your apartment, ask yourself the following questions: What places does my dog have to retreat to? Maybe the floor or carpet is simply too cold for your dog. A basket, blanket or dog house will help to keep warm .
Do dogs' paws get cold?
We are often asked whether dogs can get cold on their paws. Although our dogs lose very little body heat through their paws, yes, dogs can get cold on their paws. Dogs' paws are particularly sensitive to the cold in icy temperatures, so special care is required.
