Cold weather training tips for dogs

Cold weather can be just as hard on dogs as it is on people. With winter just around the corner, it’s important to remember these simple tips to ensure your pup stays safe, comfortable and warm throughout the entire season.

• Before winter kicks into full gear, take your dog in for a wellness check-up. Your veterinarian can make sure your dog doesn’t have any health concerns that would make him or her more vulnerable to cold weather.
  
• Frostbite is your dog’s worst enemy during the winter months. To prevent frostbite on his or her feet, ears and tail, don’t leave your dog outdoors for long periods of time —no more than 15 minutes, depending on the temperature. Also, wipe off your dog’s feet, legs and stomach thoroughly when he or she comes inside, especially in the cracks of his or her paws.
  
• Another reason not to leave your dog outside in the cold for too long — the chilly air and drops in temperature can be hazardous to his or her health. Depending on the age and breed of the dog, speak with your veterinarian about further health concerns you may have.
  
• Never let your dog off the leash in the snow. Dogs can run away, lose their scent and get lost very easily. In fact, more dogs are lost during the winter months than any other season¹, so make sure yours is microchipped or always wears his or her ID tags when outside.
  
• Make sure your dog always has a warm and comfortable place to sleep, away from drafts. A cozy bed and blanket are perfect accessories for any dog in winter.
  
• Dangerous chemicals like antifreeze and rock salt are poisonous to dogs. Because of these concerns, always try to keep your dog off the driveway, and from licking his or her paws immediately after he or she has been outside. The best precaution is to wipe off your dog’s feet with a fresh towel every time he or she comes inside to avoid irritation of paws, skin, mouth and stomach.

Use common sense and be aware of the potential dangers that the cold weather can have on your dog’s health and well-being. If it’s too cold outside for you, it’s probably too cold for your dog. Instead, cozy up to a warm fire and enjoy the beauty of winter together from indoors.

While inside together, here are a few things to keep him or her active during the winter months:

•  Play hide and seek: Tell your dog to sit and go hide somewhere in the house. This not only keeps him moving, but utilizes his brainpower as well.
  
• Play tug-of-war:  A tug-of-war session can exert a lot of doggy calories and can be fun for the whole family. Try using one toy to play with during tug-of-war. If your dog touches your skin or continues to be aggressive stop the game immediately.
  
• Make an obstacle course: Set up an obstacle course, preferably in the basement, with chairs and broomsticks covered with towels for the dog to jump over. This not only gives him or her plenty of exercise, but also it is a good bonding experience as well.
• Hide his food: Pick a room or a toy to hide his food in and make him search for it. It should provide plenty of exercise and a fun experience during mealtime.
  

By using these indoor strategies, you and your dog may find that the winter weather outside leads to an exciting bonding experience inside. So stay warm, and enjoy each other’s company.

REFERENCES:

¹ ASPCA Website. www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/cold-weather-tips.aspx. Accessed October 10, 2011.