Help Your Dog Handle the Cold Weather

If it's too cold for you to stay outside for any length of time, it's probably too cold for your canine, so begin by limiting their outdoor exposure. A short romp in the snow is fine, a night spent outside in below-freezing temperatures is definitely not.

While I'm not a big proponent of dogs wearing clothes, sometimes a sweater or coat is a necessity. If your dog is a toy or small breed, or short-haired, or even a larger dog who shivers from cold when outdoors, there are specially-made coats and sweaters available, in many prices and styles--from utilitarian to funky to out-right fabulous.

When returning from any outdoor activity with your pal, it's important to dry him or her thoroughly with a towel or even a hair dryer. Ice and snow can get hung up in the undercoat and between the paw pads, causing discomfort and worse, even frostbite. Areas most often affected are the tips of their ears, tails and feet. You can also provide a nice, warm heated bed for your buddy.

Even a simple walk down a city sidewalk can be hazardous to your pet's paws in cold weather. Consider a topical balm or even better, these doggie boots. They'll protect against salt, ice and snow damage.

If your dog absolutely must spend any significant length of time outside in cold weather, make sure to provide a heated water dish and heated bed. Dog houses shouldn't be too big, or they'll let in too much cold air.