In winter, the sun is a dog’s best friend. When the weather is clear and relatively warm, dogs should be given more outdoor exercise to strengthen their bodies and improve their ability to resist disease. Letting the dog spend time in sunlight not only helps keep it warm, but can also reduce bacteria in the coat and support calcium absorption, which is especially beneficial for the growth and development of puppies.
When taking a dog out for exercise, pay attention to the following:
1. Keep exercising consistently and reserve enough time for both exercise and play. Remember not to exercise the dog immediately after a full meal.
2. Try to avoid letting the dog exercise right before or right after feeding.
3. Jogging, walking, climbing hills, or playing games such as frisbee with the dog can help strengthen its body. Winter exercise also helps control weight and prevent obesity.
4. Pay attention to keeping the dog warm during exercise. Short-haired dogs and dogs with health problems can wear winter coats made of thicker fabric when going outside.
Cold protection is also very important. If the dog returns wet, is exposed to wind and rain, or stays damp in the kennel, it may develop colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory diseases. Effective winter protection includes keeping bedding warm, thickening the sleeping pad, changing it in time to keep it dry, and blocking cold wind.
5. Dogs that are especially sensitive to cold, such as short-haired breeds or dogs with arthritis, may need special winter clothing.
6. Always provide clean water.
7. Prevent frostbite.
8. Clean the dog’s bed frequently and replace bedding in time. This is good for the dog’s health and also helps keep indoor air fresh.
9. Be careful not to place the dog bed in a drafty location.