How to keep your Dog Warm in Winter

Fortunately most dog owners realize the necessity of making sure their dog is a warm and safe in winter. However some people do not understand that a dog has the same need for warmth an comfort as a human.

One winter, I saw a tiny ball of fur on a lawn tied to the railing of front porch. It was laying down and all balled up trying to keep warm. It took all my strength, not to get out of my car and take that puppy home.

Many dogs enjoy the snow and the cold weather, but there are precautions we need to make, just to assure they don't get frostbite, or suffer from hypothermia when the temperature really drops.

There are many things we can do to help, from using extra clothing to placing a heating pad in the doghouse.

Make a doggy door: A doggy door is convenient and very inexpensive to install. With a doggy door, your dog can come into the house, to warm up, whenever he wants to. Make sure the door is large enough for the dog to easily go in and out and the flap is tight enough to keep cold air out.

Make sure that the dog house is large enough to accommodate the dog. If you live in an area that is subject to snow or flooding, make sure that the dog house is on stilts or off of the ground. For extra protection again the wind and cold, make sure the dog house us up against a flat surface, such as the house or a tree.

To make sure you dog can stay warm when outside, make sure they have a warm comfortable place to lay down. A remnant of warm carpet or put a thick blanket in the dog house so he can cuddle up. Seal any crack or openings in the dog house that will allow the element to come in.

Tack onto the dog house, strips of thick plastic, tarp or heavy fabric, that will allow your dog to go in and out and act as a buffer against the cold.

Doggy Heating Pad: You dog will especially love your for getting him a doggy heating pad. They are great to use for you dog if he prefers to be outside or if he stays in the garage or basement. Doggy heating pads are chew and water resistant and safe to use indoors and out.

When your dog come in from the snow or the rain, it is a good idea to take a towel and dry them off. It is also important to make sure they have a warm place to stay while they are drying off. Also check the paws to make sure they have no signs of frost bite.