Winter Care for Your Dog: Tips for Keeping Them Warm and Safe

It can be easy to assume that your pet can handle time in the cold without added precautions. After all, many pups will head outside, frolic in the snow, and not seem to care. But the truth is that while our dogs can go outside without all the bundling that we require, there are some extra things you can do for your dogs in winter.

In this article, we’ll give you the inside scoop on what to do for keeping dogs warm in winter. 

How to Keep Dogs Warm Outside 

Have you ever noticed how after your dog spends time outdoors on a cold day they start to lift their paws up for extended periods of time? This is a sure sign that they’re cold. You may also see them starting to seek out heat sources, staying closer to the house or looking for vents that might have warm air cycling through. 

And if your dog starts to shake or shiver or tuck their tail between their legs, they’re telling you to please let them inside. So then, what can you do to keep them warm? We promise that there are some helpful precautions to take so that your dog can do their business and burn off some energy without making a mess of the house.

• Warm Dog House 

One of the easiest things to do is offer your dog their own protected space outdoors. And what better way to do this than with a warm dog house? Start with a sturdy, insulated design to help trap heat inside while keeping out chilly drafts. 

Look for materials that are safe, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. A raised floor can prevent moisture from seeping in, and a wind-blocking door flap or removable panel will add extra protection. 

Make the space snug by adding pet-safe bedding, like straw or fleece blankets, but avoid materials that could become damp or freeze. For colder climates, consider using a heated pad designed specifically for pets, following safety guidelines to prevent overheating or damage. 

• Winter Dog Door 

A winter dog door can be super helpful if you have a fenced yard and don’t need to supervise your pet at all times when they are outside. And these doors don’t have to pose a safety risk to your home either. 

Look for a model with insulated flaps or double-layered panels to keep the cold air out. Magnetic closures or tight seals can help maintain your home’s warmth while still giving your pup easy access. 

Additionally, consider a door that locks or comes with a secure cover for added peace of mind when it’s not used. These doors can give both you and your pet some independence and flexibility, too.

• Cozy Dog Sweater 

Have you ever seen a dog in a sweater? It’s one of the most adorable things ever. But the thing is that these dog sweaters can do far more than create a fashion statement—they’re a great way to add an extra layer of protection to your pet. 

Dog sweaters are practically a staple item at most dog stores, and of course, you can find them in just about every size, shape, and color on the internet. And they’re a great option for certain breeds that can’t stay warm as easily, such as chihuahuas, french bulldogs, greyhounds, whippets, and pugs.

• Doggy Booties

Though your dog’s paws are built to walk in the snow and on rough surfaces, it doesn’t mean they can do it for long periods of time. So, protecting their feet needs to be a non-negotiable. If you are wondering how to keep dogs warm outside, consider investing in some foot lotion and doggy booties. 

Look for paw cream on sites like Chewy.com or Amazon. And if you want some of the best of the best, we highly recommend Musher's Secret. These creams can be applied all year round, not just in the winter, and are a great way to protect your furry friend’s paws.

When selecting booties, measure your dog’s paw width and length to find the right size—most brands provide sizing charts to make this simple. Start by having your dog wear the booties for short periods indoors, gradually increasing the time to help them adjust. Offering your pets some treats and a lot of love and praise can help them get used to their new winter gear.  

• Heated Pet Beds

After a romp outside in the cold weather, why not let your pup warm themselves up with a headed pet bed? Just as with pet sweaters, you can find these pet beds at most pet stores and online. And how relaxing, would it be to curl up under your own heated blanket wearing a pair of custom Christmas pet face socks while your dog dozes in their very own warm pet bed? It’s like a pet and pet lover’s dream after a long, cold day.

• Hydration and Fuel 

We’re not talking about adding fuel to the fire and then extinguishing it with some water. We’re talking about the importance of keeping your pet fed and hydrated during the winter. You may be surprised to learn that staying hydrated can help prevent hyperthermia and can help your pup stay warm. So, encourage them to get their fill of water.

And just as it is with humans, it is normal for your pet to gain a little bit of weight when it is cold outside. As long as you pay attention to what they’re eating and keep your pup from overeating, this extra weight is typically safe and will easily be burned off when the summer months roll back around.

Make Keeping Dogs Warm in Winter a Priority  

At Crown and Paw, we love your pets almost as much as you do. That’s why helping to keep them warm and safe is so important to us. And if you are the devout pet lover that we think you are, we highly encourage you to make decisions that prioritize their health and safety. And when you’re done ordering that new doggy door, building that new dog house, and shopping for sweaters, booties, and heated pet beds, why not splurge a bit on yourself?

We have the best gifts for pet lovers. From watercolor Christmas ornaments to custom pet portraits and blankets, we have just about anything you could imagine. Visit our website and see for yourself today.