Us humans know full well how much winter weather can take its toll on our skin. Humidity is low, the outside air is cold and windy and even in homes with great ventilation, our bodies struggle to keep up with the temperature and moisture changes that occur throughout the day. This often results in chapped lips, and scalp and skin that gets increasingly dry, itchy and flaky. We aren’t alone in needing to take special care of ourselves during the chillier months, our pets have special needs too.
Why Is Winter Weather Worse For Your Dog?
Some dog owners believe that because their pets have a coat of fur, they are indestructive to the cold; this is not always the case. Even if your dog is blessed with a thick, heavy coat, they might still need some extra TLC paid to their skin and coats. This is because winter brings drier air, outdoors and indoors, which is highly drying to the skin.
Bathing and Grooming Your Dog
A common issue when winter hits is dog dandruff. Simply put, dog dandruff is pretty similar to human dandruff. It’s when the sebaceous glands - those responsible for producing the oils which protect and nourish the skin 0- begin to overproduce. The excess oil can irritate the skin and lead to flakiness and skin being shed in greater quantities than normal. Canines have much more hair than we have, which means dandruff can become more irritating for dogs than us.
Some shampoos on the market can be irritating for dogs that have sensitive skin, and can make the dandruff worse. During winter, it’s best to limit bathing with shampoos or soaps as often, to avoid stripping the skin of it’s natural oils. However, we know dogs can get a little smelly sometimes, or dirty from running around. When you have to use shampoo, it’s super important it’s moisturising and formulated for sensitive skin.
Pet Drs ShamPOO uses pH balanced natural ingredients of Coconut Oil, Avocado Oil and Vitamin E that will not irritate your best friends’ sensitive skin. It’s suitable for dogs, cats, and other domestic animals of all ages. Did you know that a dog's pH is 7.5 compared to a humans 5.5? That is why we specifically formulate products to be pH balanced for their skin as to not to cause irritation.
Keep Your Pup Hydrated
Hydration is key! You may think dogs dont need as much water in winter because they’re not sweating and panting from the heat. Regardless, dogs should drink approximately 1 ounce of water (1/8 of a cup) per pound of body weight each day. Use filtered water (preferably) and make sure to check the water is clean. If your dog doesn’t drink enough water, purchasing an automatic water fountain may help to entice him.
Feed The Skin
Good nutrition is important all year round, so that when winter does arrive, his skin is already in the best health. When your dog’s gut health is in good shape, this radiates from the inside out. Fatty acids, in particular, are essential for strong and healthy skin. As humans we easily consume Omega 3,6 and 9 to maintain healthy skin and health but pets may not be getting enough of these essential fatty acids in their diet. Pet Drs Mega Oil offers your pet the essential fatty acids they deserve!
Pet Drs Mega Oil is a supreme blend of Omega 3,6 & 9 oils that are mixed with only the finest ingredients.
This formula will naturally enhance your pet’s health targeting specifically their coats, skin, joints, digestion as well as heart and brain support. It doesn’t contain copious amounts of cod liver oil, soya bean or canola oil like other competitor brands use. Instead Pet Drs prefers the natural goodness of Omega 3, 6 and 9, balancing this formula to the exact ratio to surpass using supplements.
Environmental Factors
A change in temperature and indoor humidity can affect a dog's skin and coat. These allergens that occur in the wintertime are usually airborne and include dust mites, dry air with low humidity, mold and contact allergies, such as carpeting. Winter season allergies have similar symptoms to other seasonal allergies. The symptoms begin when the cold weather begins, and may include:
- Coughing
- Dark under-eye pigmentation
- Watery eyes
- Itchy eyes with a discharge, usually clear
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Reverse sneezing
- Itchy skin
- Dry, irritated skin that may be red in color
- Excessive scratching and licking of skin and feet
If your dog is continually itching without relief, it may be a case of atopic dermatitis (eczema). This is a common inflammatory, chronic skin disease associated with allergies. It typically affects pups aged 6 months to 3 years and is the second most common allergic skin disease in dogs, after flea allergy dermatitis.
To relieve the skin and reduce inflammation, you can apply Pet Drs Derma Cream to itchy and irritated skin. The formulation is developed with your pets’ sensitive skin in mind and has powerful ingredients that are pH balanced so it’s totally lickable!
Winter Warming Tips
Here are some ways you can help protect your dog’s skin and coat during the chillier months.
Dress for the weather
Some breeds are blessed with thick, heavy coats that keep them warm even in extreme temperatures, but some dogs with thin coats may need to wear a sweater or coat when playing outside. Even when wearing a coat, make sure to not keep your short-haired dog outside for too long when it’s freezing!
Try to catch some rays
Take advantage of sunny days! Try to walk your dog in the late morning or early afternoon hours when temperatures are a little warmer (don’t forget your sunscreen!). Let your dog play outside when it's sunny, or better yet, bring a frisbee and play together in the sun!
Warm bedding
Just like us, dogs love to feel nice and snug in a warm and comfy bed. If your dog is sleeping inside, keep them warm by positioning their bed in the living room or bedroom and providing them with a warm blanket to snuggle into. If your dog sleeps outside, make sure their kennel is sturdy and secure, and provide them with thicker bedding, warm jackets and even microwavable heat pillows if necessary.
Regular health checks!
Don’t forget to visit your vet for a winter health check up! Senior dogs feel the effects of winter more, and you may notice them to start to slow down over the next few months.
Diet
We know how hard it is to say no to another treat when they’ve got those puppy dog eyes, but it’s important to avoid overfeeding your furry friend over the winter months. This is because they may not be able to burn off the additional calories due to a lack of exercise.
