Despite the dense coat and the anatomical characteristics very different from humans, the cold dog is more common than you think. Many pet parents do not pay proper attention to dog care in winter, which can trigger a canine flu or leave the pet suffering from low temperatures. Seeing the dog cold, shivering, shrinking and looking for corners to get cold.warming up are typical signs of winter that demand extra attention from guardians.

But do you know how to take care of the dog in the cold? To answer the main questions on the subject, the Paws of the House has put together the key information on dog care in winter!

Dog in winter: at how many degrees can dogs feel discomfort?

There is no specific temperature that indicates when a dog is cold, but regardless of the breed or size of the dog, it is important to keep an eye on the animal in temperatures below 10ºC - especially at night and on days with strong winds. Special attention is needed for dogs with short hair or without undercoat, puppies and the elderly.

"My dog is shivering like he's cold": how to confirm the suspicion?

A dog's temperature that is considered normal is 38-39°C and when they are cold their body temperature tends not to decrease. This is because thermoregulation mechanisms can kick in to help keep their body temperature stable, even if they are exposed to the cold for a long time.

Therefore, it is more important to observe the dog's behavioral signs in the cold than to check its temperature. Many owners notice that the dog sleeps more in the cold, for example. This is because sleep is a way to conserve energy and keep the animal's body warm. See the main cold dog behaviors below:

• Tremor
• Seeking shelter to keep warm
• Staying tucked up or lifting their front paws to keep them warm
• Looking for warm areas, such as sunny spots
• Sad dog look

Dog in winter: which breeds need more care in the season?

Every dog feels cold. However, some dog breeds need special care in the cold, such as mini breeds, because they have shorter and thinner hair, or because they are small breeds. Check below which dog breeds suffer the most from low temperatures:

• Dalmatian
• Pinscher
• English Greyhound
• Boxer
• Basenji
• Whippet
• Chihuahua
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Poodle Toy

These are just a few breeds that may need more attention in the winter. However, it is important to remember that every dog is unique and may respond differently to the cold. Always watch your pet and be on the lookout for signs of discomfort or excessive cold, regardless of breed.

It should also be borne in mind that older dogs generally have more difficulty regulating their body temperature, so they may need extra attention during the winter to avoid excessive cold. Puppies of all breeds are more sensitive to cold as they are still developing their ability to regulate their body temperature. They may need shelter and protectionadditional during the winter.

5 tips on how to warm up a dog in cold weather

1) Provide adequate shelter: make sure your puppy has a covered, insulated place to shelter from the cold. This could be a kennel or a sheltered area inside the house. Put extra blankets or pillows to add insulation and comfort.

2) Winter clothing for dogs: for dogs that are more sensitive to the cold, such as short-haired breeds, consider dressing them in suitable dog clothing such as sweaters and jackets. This helps keep them warm, especially during outdoor walks. Here are some tips on how to make super easy dog cold weather clothing at home.

3) Heated blankets: placing heated blankets in strategic places where your pet likes to rest, such as on the dog bed or couch, can provide additional warmth. Make sure to use blankets that are safe and designed specifically for use with pets.

4) Limit time outdoors: in extremely cold climates, limit your dog's exposure time outdoors. Short, targeted walks for their basic needs are sufficient and should be taken in the warmer hours. Avoid leaving your dog in the yard for long periods during the winter.

5) Adequate nutrition: during the winter, some dogs may need a larger amount of food to help keep their metabolism and body temperature stable. Consult your veterinarian to determine the proper amount and appropriate diet for your four-legged love.

How to bathe a dog in the cold?

Bathing a dog in the cold can be challenging, but it is possible to do it in a way that is safe and comfortable for your pet. The main tip is to keep the water warm so that your pet doesn't get cold during the bath. Use water at a temperature that you would feel comfortable touching with your hand.

In addition, it is important to use products suitable for animals, such as dog shampoo. After bathing, dry your pooch thoroughly by removing excess water with a soft towel. Make sure to especially dry the ears, paws and other areas prone to accumulating moisture. If necessary, you can use a hairdryer on cool or low mode to completely dry the ears and paws.by.

It's important to remember that not all dogs need frequent bathing during the winter. If your dog isn't dirty or smelling unpleasant, dry cleaning or focusing on paw and anal hygiene may be sufficient. If you have any specific concerns about dog bathing in the cold, it's worth consulting a vet for further guidance.

What are the most common dog illnesses in winter?

There are some dog illnesses that appear more frequently during the winter. It's important to watch your pooch closely during this time of year and seek veterinary care if you notice any worrisome symptoms. Below is some information on common cold dog illnesses:

Dog flu Just like humans, dogs can also catch the flu. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, runny nose and lethargy. It is important to keep your dog warm and take care during the fall and winter to strengthen the immune system.

Cracks in the paws Dog paw pads can become dry and cracked during the winter due to the cold, dry weather. This can cause discomfort and even inflammation. Using products such as dog paw moisturizers can help prevent cracking.

Dermatitis This condition occurs when dogs lick and bite irritated areas of the skin due to dryness caused by cold, dry air. The skin can become inflamed, red, moist and painful. Keeping your dog hydrated and using appropriate skin care products can help prevent this condition.

Hypothermia Hypothermia in a dog occurs when the dog's body temperature drops dangerously low due to prolonged exposure to intense cold. Symptoms include shivering, lethargy, cold skin to the touch and slow breathing. It is critical to prevent the dog from being exposed to extreme cold for an extended period of time and to ensure that he is adequately protected.