Do you have an elderly dog? Elderly dogs are still full of love and affection but need extra care, especially in the cold weather.
This article covers my Top 10 tips for keeping my old dog warm during those chilly winter months.
Snuggle up with warm blankets:
Investing in a few extra fleecy blankets as these can make a massive difference for your old dog. I provide Roxy with soft, warm blankets and favourite resting spots around the house. It helps Roxy stay warm and adds an extra layer of comfort.
Use heated dog beds:
If your old dog suffers from joint pain or arthritis, a heated dog bed can work wonders. These beds provide gentle heat that helps soothe achy joints and keeps dogs warm throughout the night—it’s like a mini heating pad tailored to their needs!
Set up a cosy indoor area:
Create a designated cosy, warm indoor area where your senior dog can relax. Consider placing their bed near a heat source like a radiator. This way, they can enjoy the warmth and avoid drafts.
Layer them up with doggy clothes:
Like humans, dogs can benefit from wearing extra layers during the cold season. Opt for doggy sweaters or jackets to provide warmth during walks or outdoor bathroom breaks. Please ensure the clothes are the right size and don’t restrict their movement or breathing.
Maintain a warm indoor temperature:
Keep your home comfortably warm during the winter months. This will help your old dog stay warm and prevent them from feeling cold inside. Adjust your thermostat and make sure your house is at least 18 degrees.
Protect against drafts:
It is a good idea to go around your home every winter and check for drafts or any small gaps that may let cold air in. Make sure doors and windows are correctly fitting and have draft excludes fitted. By doing this, you can ensure that your home stays warmer and save money on heating bills, but it also helps keep you and your pets warm.
If you don’t have double glazing, why not consider the DIY option you can get in most hardware shops? This is a clingfilm-type material that you install yourself over the window and then shrink with a hair dryer – ideal for older houses in a conservation area where double glazing may not be allowed.
Provide heated floor mats:
Old dogs often experience discomfort from the cold floors, which can worsen joint pain. Consider using heated floor mats in areas where your dog spends a lot of time. These mats provide a warm, soothing surface that helps ease their joints and keeps them cosy.
Offer warm meals and treats:
On those extra chilly days, warm up your old dog from the inside out with warm meals and treats.
Consider adding broth or warm water to their food, baking homemade treats or making them a dog-friendly casserole such as chicken or dog-friendly vegetables.
Like with humans, This will fill them with warmth and comfort and enjoy that extra love,
Keep them active indoors:
When the weather outside is frightful, engage in indoor activities to keep your old dog active. Play interactive games, engage them in puzzle toys, or even try teaching them new tricks. Mental stimulation and physical activity generate body heat, ensuring your furry friends stay warm and mentally engaged and helping tire them out.
Regular vet check-ups:
Our last tip is to ensure you get regular vet check-ups. As your dog ages, it is essential to visit your vet regularly, say maybe twice or even three times a year, so that they can monitor their overall health, address concerns, and provide specific guidance on keeping your senior dog warm and comfortable.
Remember, like humans, every old dog is unique, and its needs may vary. Only by getting to your dog and watching its behaviour and body language will you know if it is feeling cold and requires extra attention.
We hope these tips will help keep your dog warm during the colder months.
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