What are the best winter accessories for dogs? We tell you!
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Do dogs suffer from the cold?
Just like humans, dogs feel temperature changes, whether it’s hot or cold, but their bodies are generally better able to withstand cooler temperatures than hot ones. However, there are several factors that can affect their cold resistance.
Some breeds are more sensitive than others, such as short-haired breeds like the Greyhound or Chihuahua. Puppies and senior dogs are less able to fight the cold than adult dogs.
In addition, an overweight dog will be able to withstand the cold more easily than a thin or normal weight dog, because the fat reserves in which they are wrapped protect them from cold temperatures.
If your dog has a thick coat, with a dense undercoat, he will feel less cold than short-haired species. For example, Nordic breeds such as the Husky and Malamute are not very sensitive to cold.
How to know if my dog is cold?
It is easy enough to tell if a dog is cold. Dogs that are often cold change their behavior when winter comes, are less enthusiastic about going out for a walk, and become attached to their owner. They also tend to tremble a lot, especially on the outside.
A dog who is cold also tries to stay near radiators or fireplaces. He is only comfortable when he is near a source of heat that he is finally seen relaxing. He also likes to hide under the covers and sofa cushions to keep warm as best he can.
When the dog is cold, he will move around, trying to warm up. When the floor is cold, he will try to have as little contact with it as possible by lifting his paws one at a time.
To find out if your dog is cold, you can also simply take his temperature. If he’s below 38 degrees, he’s probably suffering from hypothermia.
Do you have to dress your model in winter?
It depends on the dog. Some breeds, such as the Malamute, are particularly good at withstanding winter weather.
Others, like the Chihuahua, have much more difficulty adapting to the cold, which is why it is important to protect them with warm and comfortable winter clothing to prevent them from getting sick.
Coats are especially useful during large temperature changes – if winter comes suddenly, your dog may catch cold.
It is important to remember that if your dog spends all year indoors with you, he does not have the same resistance to cold as an animal that is used to living outside.
Finally, don’t forget that the paws of dogs are particularly sensitive. When it snows in winter, they are in direct contact with frost and this can be a source of discomfort: do not hesitate to invest in small non-slip socks!
Why put a coat on your dog?
A dog coat can serve many purposes. Of course, the main one is to protect the animal from cold temperatures.
Some dogs are very sensitive to cold, such as short-haired breeds and senior dogs: when they are cold, they begin to shiver and do not like walking outdoors at all. With a coat, they stay warm on winter outings and enjoy walking with their owners again.
Also, the dog’s coat can protect the animal from insect bites. If your dog is allergic to insects, this is a particularly practical solution to avoid attacks from mosquitoes or ticks. A coat that fits snugly to the body prevents insects from crawling on the skin.
Finally, a dog coat can protect a still fragile scar. When you go for a walk with your dog, his fur will prevent the branches from scratching his healing wound (after castration, for example)
How to dress your dog with style in winter?
Just because you put a coat or socks on your dog doesn’t mean it will look ridiculous. Dog winter clothing manufacturers now offer very elegant and designer jackets and accessories. They are available in all shapes and colors.
To keep your dog stylish, remember to match his various clothes, including the dog’s coat. Animals with a dark coat look great with blue clothes.
To make sure your dog feels comfortable in his outfit, make sure you choose the right size.