Most breeds of dog are extremely hardy creatures, capable of withstanding all kinds of weather conditions. If your dog is kept outside, you may like to take a few extra precautions throughout the winter to ensure that your dog remains healthy. However, even if your dog is an indoor pet, there are a few tips to keeping your canine pal warm and safe in the harsh winter months.

1. If your dog does not have a doghouse, it is wise to construct one. On the other hand, if you already have a doghouse, it is advisable to make sure that it is suitable for winter weather. In other words, ensure that it is waterproof and can withstand strong winds. A doghouse doesn’t have to be fancy or cost a fortune, but your dog will really appreciate a warm cozy place to shelter from inclement weather conditions.

2. When constructing a doghouse, it is a good idea to ensure that it is sheltered from the wind. In addition, it is advisable to place the doghouse onto a platform or raise it with legs, so that the floor of the house is not directly on the ground. If the floor of the doghouse is not elevated from the ground, it can become extremely cold in frozen conditions.

3. Be sure to check the lining of your doghouse at least once a day to ensure that it is not damp. Many people use straw as it is a good insulating material. Additionally, it is inexpensive and easy to clean and replace.

4. With indoor or outdoor dogs, it is a good idea to check their pads frequently during winter. The salt and grit used to de-ice roads and sidewalks can cause cracking to a dog’s pads. Subsequently, you may like to wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth after a walk.

5. If your dog is kept outside, you may find that he, or she, gets an accumulation of snowballs on the fur and between the toes. Understandably, this will make your dog even colder. Again, a warm damp cloth will be appreciated when removing clumps of snow.

6. Remember, puppies and elderly dogs should not be kept outside during the winter. They will not survive extreme conditions, so, it is a good idea to bring very young and old dogs inside.

7. Whether your dog lives indoors or outdoors, it is wise to shovel a path and an area that you use as your dog’s toilet. If your dog is unable to get to where it has been trained to go, it may become stressed. In addition, clearing a spot for your dog will reduce the chance of accidents inside your house or the doghouse.

8. To ensure that an outdoor dog is getting enough to drink during the winter months, it is a good idea to offer him, or her, a bowl of lukewarm water two or three times daily. This is especially important if you live in an area that becomes extremely cold, as drinking water will freeze incredibly quickly.

9. Typically, dogs will get less exercise during the winter, but they will also eat more to retain body fat and keep warm. To avoid excessive weight gain in your dog, it is a good idea to cut down on treats.

10. There are some dogs that are particularly susceptible to cold conditions, including small breeds and very skinny dogs, such as Greyhounds and Whippets. It is not advisable to keep these dogs outside in frozen conditions and, when you take them out for a walk, it is wise to give your dog a coat or sweater to prevent them becoming too cold.

Whether your dog lives indoors or outdoors, you should take a little extra care during the winter to make sure that he, or she, is happy and healthy.

Samantha Markham is a professional writer, currently composing articles for Remmeer.com, an online supplier of pet products, including elevated dog feeders & raised dog bowls and items to help keep your dog warm in the winter, such as outdoor insulated doghouses.

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