There’s nothing like seeing an energetic new puppy in New Jersey scampering through the snow. But just as you take precautions for yourself in the winter — dressing properly, driving carefully, etc. — you need to do the same keep your puppy safe in the winter.

Keep Your Puppy Safe in Winter weather

Here are a few recommendations from the SPCA on how to keep your puppy safe in the winter.

  • Puppies shouldn’t spend a lot of time outdoors in the winter. Their coats aren’t that thick, and they have less fat and muscle to protect against the cold.
  • Don’t cut your dog’s hair too short in the winter. A thick coat of fur will help them stay warm, although you may want to trim their fur to prevent ice salt crystals and deicing agents from collecting.
  • If you have a short-haired breed, consider getting them a winter coat (or a sweater that covers them from their neck to their tale. If you have a puppy, you’ll want to get them a sweater or coat regardless of their fur. Consult with your vet about exposing new puppies to cold weather.
  • In addition to a coat, get your dog some boots, which will protect their paws from salt and ice-melting chemicals. If for some reason booties won’t work, rub some petroleum jelly into their paws before you go outside, and wipe snow and ice from their footpads when you get back home.
  • The repeated transition from the cold and wet outside to the warm and dry indoors can cause a dog’s skin to become itchy and flake. Keep your home humidified and dry the dog as soon as you return from the outside.
  • Your already energetic puppy will burn even more energy trying to stay warm in winter, so make sure they’re getting the calories they need, along with enough water to stay hydrated and prevent dry skin.
  • Dogs should have a warm place to sleep in the winter, off the floor and away from drafts.
  • Keep a towel with you on walks so you can clean your dog’s paws so they don’t become irritated from walking over the salty ground. Once you’re home from the walk, wash the dog’s stomach and paws to clear away ice and salt. Examine the paw pads to look for cracks and redness.
  • Cut down on the number of times you bathe your dog during winter. Too much washing can cause their skins to dry out. Speak to your vet about using a moisturizing shampoo if you think your dog needs a bath.
  • Antifreeze is toxic for pets. If you spill it when filling your car, make sure you clean it thoroughly and consider using an antifreeze that contains propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol.
  • Finally, if it’s too cold for you outside, it’s too cold for your pets. Puppies obviously should never be left unattended, but bring adult dogs doors to keep them safe. And never keep your pet in a car during the winter, as this situation can be as dangerous in cold weather as it can in the summer.

Puppy Store in NJ

Are you searching for a new puppy in New Jersey? Silver Nickel Puppies is here to help. Visit our boutique location in Englewood, where you’ll find pampered pups getting loving care in a safe environment until they’re ready to head home with you. Contact us today to learn more about an available puppy in New Jersey.