5 Cold Weather Tips for Your Boxers

As the colder weather settles in, we naturally start preparing our homes, cars, and wardrobes for the season. It’s also a great time to think about how to protect our furry friends from the winter chill! Here are five ways you can help keep your pets warm and safe:

1. Cold Weather Gear

Just like we bundle up with coats, gloves, and scarves, our pets can benefit from pet-specific winter gear. Dogs, especially those with shorter fur, may need coats or sweaters to stay warm. Boots or socks can protect their paws from the cold, ice, or any salt used to clear sidewalks.

2. Outdoor Time

Consider walking your dogs during the warmest part of the day and shorten walk times on chilly days to minimize exposure to the cold. After each walk, be sure to wash and dry their paws, stomachs, and any areas that may have been exposed to ice, salt, or chemicals.

3. Mental Enrichment

If colder weather means shorter walks or indoor time for your pets, mental enrichment is a great way to keep them entertained and engaged. Puzzle toys or interactive play can help reduce boredom and prevent destructive behavior. You don’t need to spend money either! Create a simple enrichment activity by filling a few cardboard boxes with crumbled paper and hiding treats inside.

4. Food and Water

Check with your veterinarian if they recommend increasing or decreasing your pet’s food portions for the winter. Some pets may burn extra calories to stay warm, while others may burn fewer calories with decreased activity.

And don’t forget about water! Make sure your pets have access to fresh, unfrozen water to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of dry skin.

5. It’s Too Cold to Walk Outside...

Visit a dog-friendly store with your dog to scratch the mental itch and get some steps in. 

• Petco and Petsmart are easy choices with plenty of shopping options and activities to engage your pooch.

• Home improvement stores like Harbor Freight, Lowes, Home Depot, and Tractor Supply Company welcome your pets as well.

• There are other major retail chains like Nordstrom, Michaels, Bass Pro Shop, Ross and Everlane that are completely dog friendly nationwide.

• Please note: Specific policies can vary by location, so check your local store’s policy before visiting. This also assumes your pet is leashed and well behaved. No one wants to get into a scuffle with another customer, may they be a dog or human!

By taking a few simple steps, we can help our dogs stay happy, healthy, and safe during the winter months.