Factors that may affect cold tolerance in dogs:
A Dog’s Coat generally speaking, dogs with an undercoat (such as
Alaskan Huskies, Labs and others) can play in the snow up to 30 minutes
without harm, but even Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes can feel the
effects of cold temperatures if they are not accustomed to the cold
temperatures.
Single-coated and short-coated dogs such as Boxers and Bullmastiffs have
a low tolerance to cold weather, and a coat is recommended in
temperatures approaching freezing. Remember that wind chill, rain, and
snow can lower a dog’s temperature even further.
A Dog’s Age
Very
young and very old dogs are also sensitive to cold temperatures, and
may lack the agility and coordination to walk on icy surfaces. A
boot/jacket combination is recommended for these dogs. Cold temperatures
can also activate arthritis, so be sensitive to older dogs or dogs with
health issues.
A Dog’s Weight
Dogs under 20 pounds are
generally more susceptible to hypothermia. They have less fat and are
generally closer to the ground, making them more prone to chill. For
these breeds, full-coverage body protection, such as that found on our
Cloud Chaser™ storm jacket, is recommended.
Symptoms of hypothermia in dogs:
• Shivering
• Stiff muscles
• Low pulse and respiration rate
• Cold to touch (body temperature below 95°F or 35°C)
• Lethargy which eventually leads to unconsciousness
Treatment of hypothermia in dogs:
1. Move animal to shelter
2. Cover with warm blankets
3. Give dog a warm liquid/sugar mixture to drink
4. Call your veterinarian
Prevention of hypothermia is key to
avoiding injury. To keep your dog warm when the mercury falls, be sure
to arm your dog with the essentials in cold weather gear. Our
recommendations include
Fido Fleece coats,
Ruff Wear Grip Trex™ Boots, Bark’n Boot Liners™, and a Cloud Chaser™ or K9 Overcoat™ and
1Z Harness dog coat.
Visit:
www.kooldawgtees.com for all of your Dog's Winter Apparel and Protection.
