Cold weather can be a challenge for our four-legged friends, so it's important to keep them healthy and comfortable. Here are some winter dog care tips that you can use to help your pup stay safe and warm during the cold season. 

Keep Your Dog Hydrated. 

During cold winter days, it’s important to keep your dog hydrated. Make sure that they have access to clean water at all times—or if the weather is extra chilly, make sure to give them room temperature, water to drink. Monitor your dogs urination frequency, this is a good indicator of how much they are drinking. Pet water fountains can help entice dogs to drink if you think your dog needs to be more hydrated. 

Protect Against Extreme Temperatures. 

Dogs with thicker coats and those accustomed to cold weather may be able to tolerate outdoor temperatures better than other dogs. However, when the temperature drops below 0 degrees, even thick-coated dogs will begin to feel cold. Consider a warm dog coat for walks and ensure they have adequate warm blankets and bedding. While Australian winters are mild by European standards, depending on what state you live in will determine if your dog needs additional TLC in the cold. Dogs living in Queensland will experience a winter that is very different to their buddies in Southern NSW, Victoria and Tasmania.

Make Sure Your Dog is Well Groomed. 

Just like you, your pup needs to stay well groomed throughout the winter months. Regularly brushing their fur will keep them looking neat, as well as ensure that they are free of dead and matted hair. This will also help prevent skin irritations and reduce the risk of infection. Also, remember to trim your pup’s nails before it gets too cold to have them professionally done at a salon or veterinarian. 

Take Regular Walks When Appropriate, and Provide Indoor Activity Opportunities When It’s Inclement Weather Outside.

Taking your dog for regular walks is important to ensure physical and mental stimulation for your pup, but be aware of the dangerous temperatures that could make a regular walk uncomfortable or even hazardous.

On days when the temperature drops very low, shorten the length of time spent outdoors, and dress in appropriate clothing for cold weather walking. If it’s extremely cold outside, provide alternative indoor activities such as an interactive toy, puzzle feeders and more to keep your pup engaged and entertained.

Tips to Maintain a Nutritious Diet for your Dog in Winter.

At Delivery Hound, we understand the importance of healthy eating all year round for our dogs.  Winter can be a time to add a little more attention to your dogs mobility, age and reaction to the cold weather.

• Feed a balanced and complete dog food. Try a formula of food that has plenty of Omega oils such as Man's Best Ocean Fish Adult formula, to assist with joint health. 
• Add a warm meal topper to your dog's food. Try adding a heated meal topper to your dogs bowl of Man's Best. This could include some bone broth, or a portion of  your dogs favourite protein.

• Don't overfeed your dog! Dogs tend to be less active during the winter months, which means they may not burn as many calories as they do in the summer. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain and other health problems, so be sure to measure your dog's food carefully and don't exceed the recommended amount.

• Provide fresh water. Dogs need access to clean, fresh water at all times. During the winter, their water bowl may freeze over, so be sure to check it regularly and replace it with fresh water as needed.

• Incorporate healthy treats! Treats are a great way to reward your dog and provide extra nutrients. Look for healthy options such as carrot sticks, apple slices, or frozen berries.
• Heat up your dog's food. Yes, this is a thing! You can heat up Man's Best kibble for a few seconds in a microwave. This will release the delicious smells even more and warm up your buddy at the same time!

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