Caring for your dog this winter and holiday time

Whenever I post about Bennett, our Lhasapoo (which is a cross between a Lhasa apso and a Poodle) the posts do really well.  We really are a nation of animal lovers, and its this time of year (in the UK) that sometimes we forget that they do, like us,  need a little extra care and attention. I’ve written before about the care needed for dogs in summer, So I thought I would give some the tips I have picked up both at Christmas and winter time in general.

First up Christmas:

Christmas is a time of visitors, unusual food, toys being left around as well as advent calendar and other chocolate and sweets hanging around.  I think the main thing is to be aware that this is actually quite a hazardous time for dogs.

• Try to keep things off the floor if you can.
• I also only out unbreakable things on the lower portion of the tree.  This might be hard if you have a large dog though, but one of my fears is broken baubles or other glass ornaments causing damage.
• I also make sure I keep candles away from wagging tails!
• Keep chocolate and sweets away from your dog
• Try not to let feed a dog whilst you at the table, it a hard habit to break, and not a healthy one for the pooch.

Wintertime :

Once its starts to get really cold, I don’t know about you, but sometimes even our outside loving dog refuses to go outside.  You do need to remember though when you take them for a walk there are a few thing to remember and keep in mind.

• Don’t leave them unattended outside
• Short-coated breeds, should wear a coat in winter.
• Breeds that need to have their haircut, should not have it cut too short.  Ask your dog groomer for advice.
• Sometimes the floor in winter can be too cold.  If your dog seems in distress, I’d head back home, or invest in some dog boots.
• Have you ever come across salted pathways?  If you do, then once home wash your dogs paws.
• Stay away from frozen ponds or lakes and keep your dog on a lead near frozen water.
• If your dog is less active during the winter months, don’t forget to cut back a bit on what you feed them.
• Add an extra cover into their bed for them to snuggle into
• Its just as important to make sure that they have a varied diet and fresh water.  Choose a dog food that you can trust.

Finally don’t forget a new chew toy or treat for Christmas morning, they deserve a treat too!

This post is a collaboration with PEDIGREE®, but all thoughts are my own. For additional pet care information you can read the following PEDIGREE® Reviews for tips and advice.