How to Make Cold Weather Easier on Your Hunting Dogs: Essential Tips for Keeping Them Comfortable

The cold and heavy rains seem to have settled over the peninsula this week. This drastic drop in temperatures, combined with the upcoming time change, affects all household members, including pet dogs. To help ease the transition into colder weather and make the most of this season, the Royal Canine Society of Spain (RSCE) has put together a series of helpful tips for dogs and their owners. Here they are.

Walks to Boost Their Mood

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. Shorter days, less sunlight, and colder temperatures can affect their mood. If your dog seems more tired or down than usual, outdoor walks in natural sunlight can help lift their spirits. With the upcoming time change, gradually adjusting their mealtime and walking routine will also make the transition to colder weather easier.

Maintain a Good Brushing Routine

Just as deciduous trees shed their leaves, seasonal changes can cause more hair shedding in dogs. To combat this, daily washing and brushing is important as it strengthens their skin and coat. Keep in mind the dog's breed, as not all breeds react the same. For example, Siberian Huskies and Samoyeds are better adapted to low temperatures thanks to their thicker coats and higher body fat. On the other hand, short-haired dogs or those weighing under 10 kilos may struggle more with the cold, having less fur and body fat to protect them.

Be Mindful of Preexisting Conditions

Dogs with preexisting conditions, such as respiratory or heart diseases, require extra care, as they are more vulnerable to developing pulmonary infections like pneumonia. Puppies are at even greater risk since their immune systems are not fully developed.

High-Energy, But Healthy Diet

Colder weather increases the body's energy expenditure, requiring more calories, especially for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. However, be mindful of their diet to prevent weight gain. A cold dog may become more sedentary, which means less physical activity and exercise.

Warmth from Humans Helps Fight the Cold

Signs that a dog is cold include shivering, seeking warmth from their owner, or moving slowly due to muscle stiffness. To keep them comfortable, bring them closer to a heat source with caution and maintain a suitable indoor temperature, especially for short-haired breeds like Greyhounds.

Heating is Good, But in Moderation

At home, be cautious with the heating—not just to avoid a high energy bill, but also to prevent extreme temperature changes when going outside. Dogs have natural fur that helps protect them from the cold, so a stark contrast between a warm home and the chilly outdoors can disrupt their thermoregulation.

Avoid Late-Night Walks

With colder weather, it's better to avoid walks after dark when temperatures drop the most. Try to walk your dog in the afternoon before nightfall, choosing the warmest part of the day. If that’s not possible, opt for shorter walks.

The autumn time change also brings earlier nightfall, which can disorient your dog, increasing the risk of them getting lost. To prevent this, take precautions such as using reflective collars and vests. And of course, having the mandatory microchip is crucial for quickly locating them and avoiding unnecessary stress.

Este artículo también está disponible en español: Cómo hacer más llevadera la bajada de temperaturas para tus perros