Winter is here, and you and your dachshund are getting out in the cold for walks, having fun in the snow, and for travel. However, while we humans bundle up to keep ourselves warm while outside, what about our dogs? How do they keep warm?
If you have sausage dogs and want to put them inside their own warm sausage roll, then you need to know the best ways to keep different breeds of Dachshunds warm in the winter.
So look through this article and you’ll be able to keep your Dachshund warm whenever the temperature gets very cold!
Can Dachshunds Handle The Cold?
Dachshunds do not handle the cold well, and if the weather is damp and cold outside then that makes the cold even worse. Regardless of their breed, all dachshunds are very close to the floor and that makes them get exposed to the cold quicker as the ground draws out the heat from their body.
While some doxies love the snow and enjoy rolling around in the white fluffiness, you still need to keep an eye out for the two dangers of the cold: hypothermia and frostbite which can happen if they are outside in below 40°F temperatures.
For dachshunds, frostbite is whenever their skin and tissues become so cold that they actually start to get damaged. For their extremities (such as their tails, nose, and ears, as well as unprotected paws), they can actually freeze. This is often identified through the affected skin being discolored to blue or grey. Additionally, once the skin is warmed the skin will become red and swollen.
Hypothermia, where the body gets so cold that the organs start to shut down, occurs hand in hand with frostbite. Some of the affected organs can include the heart, immune system, and the nervous system. If you find that your dachshund is breathing weakly and shallowly, shivering excessively, or is moving very slowly, then you need to warm them up quickly using blankets and lukewarm water. Don’t rub or touch any frostbitten areas, but allow the areas to warm and then go to the vet.
Hypothermia and frostbite can occur together and are often signs of an emergency. If you suspect that your doxie is suffering from either hypothermia or frostbite, you need to warm them up indoors (treating the hypothermia first by raising your Dachshund’s core body temperature) and also take them to the vet immediately for further treatment.
How To Keep Different Breeds Warm
While all the wiener dog breeds might look the same, and some of these methods carry over, all dachshund breeds have different ways to be kept warm that this article is going to explore.
Smooth Dachshunds
Smooth dachshunds are able to go out in the cold, and some of them even enjoy the cold weather and love playing around in the snow. While all Dachshunds can enjoy the snow for periods of time, you do need to keep an eye on them.
Doxies do get cold very easily and you need to ensure that once they get back inside you keep them in a warm room and wrap them up in a blanket so they don’t get too cold! When they are outside, you can help prevent the effects of the cold from bothering them as much by bundling them up in winter clothes.
Long Haired And Wire Haired Dachshunds
One of the tips that are especially for long haired dachshunds and wire haired dachshunds is to keep their coats dry and free of snow. If your dog is running around in the snow and is spending too much time outside, then they could get a very wet coat and lots of snow caught up in their hair and around their paws.
If you don’t want to spend time brushing snow from their long coats, cover them up with Dachshund specific winter coats and boots to keep the wet and the cold out.
Miniature Dachshunds and Dachshund Puppies
While there is nothing cuter than watching your miniature dachshund play around in snow piles that are bigger than he is, or watching the puppies experience their first-ever snowfall, you still need to keep an eye on them. These types of doxies are even closer to the ground than their larger breeds, so even more body heat gets taken away by the ground.
Make sure that they have warm beds off of the ground and in a very warm part of the house for when they come back inside. The best way to keep smaller dachshunds safe and warm is to limit the time spent outside in cold weather to absolute necessities, and bundle them up in those tiny winter outfits!
A Deep Dive into Winter Clothes for Dogs
While it's easy to think of winter clothes for dogs as mere fashion statements, they serve a much more critical purpose. Though all dogs can benefit from winter wear, breeds like Dachshunds, with their close-to-the-ground stature, may need extra protection against the cold. So before you rush to find a stylish coat that accentuates your doxie's expressive eyes or matches your own ensemble, it's essential to understand the functionality and purpose behind winter attire for your beloved wiener dog.
Winter Coats: More Than Just Fashion
Waterproof winter jackets and coats for dogs aren't just about making a style statement. They serve a practical purpose by keeping your Dachshund's fur dry during both prolonged walks and quick bathroom trips. Wet fur can reduce the natural insulating qualities it offers, making it even more crucial to ensure they stay dry.
When shopping for winter coats, it's important to remember that Dachshunds come in various shapes and sizes. Therefore, finding a snug fit is crucial. Opt for jackets like the one with an integrated harness, which provides dual functionality. Moreover, invest in coats that are thick, durable, snowproof, and long-lasting. Such investments are particularly valuable if you reside in areas where harsh winter climates are a regular occurrence, ensuring your dog stays protected year after year.
Now, if you're still in two minds about which coat to grab for your fur buddy, I've got a couple of rockstar suggestions for you:
Waterproof Dog Winter Jacket With Harness: This one's a total game-changer. Not only is it waterproof (say goodbye to that soggy dog look), but it's also packed with some snuggly warm cotton on the inside. The reflective bits? They're gonna make your pooch pop in the dark! And hey, the zipper's even got a special guard so your doggo's fur doesn't get caught. Adjustable straps make it a cinch to get that perfect fit.
Waterproof Winter Jacket with Fur Collar for Small Dogs: If you're all about the glam, this one's got your dog's name on it. The fur collar? Absolute show-stealer. But it's not just about the looks. The padded layer inside is like wrapping your pup in a cozy blanket. And with the handy D-ring on the back, walks are gonna be a breeze. Plus, it's made to battle the elements, be it rain or snow.
The Need for Winter Boots
Imagine walking on the cold, wet snow without shoes. That's what it's like for our pets. Winter boots offer protection for dachshunds' delicate paws from the freezing snow and chilly winds. While there might be an initial period of adjustment (as they try to figure out the new 'shoes'), these boots serve to shield their paws from the elements and help retain some vital body warmth.
When selecting boots, consider features like a non-slip sole, which offers traction on icy surfaces, and a toe-shaped design that supports their natural gait. Durability is another factor – these boots should withstand daily wear and tear. Water-resistance is a must, and for areas with heavier snowfall, snowproofing becomes essential. If you're on the lookout for boots with these attributes, consider our Dach Everywhere™ Grip Dog Winter Boots.
These aren’t your everyday pet booties; they are a blend of comfort and style. Lined with super soft, warm plush, each step for your dachshund turns into a comfy trot, even on the iciest days. The non-slip rubber and protective sole ensure that each paw-touch to the frosty ground is secure, making icy slips a tale of the past.
Keep An Eye On Your Dachshund
As long as you make sure that the temperature isn’t too cold and that you and your dog aren’t out for too long then you will be all good. Still, make sure to keep an eye on your dachshund as they experience the cold weather. Otherwise, both you and your dog can bundle up and get out in the cold weather, and your dachshund might even enjoy all the snow and the fun that it brings you!
Then you can both go inside, curl up, and focus on getting and staying warm until the next time you both need to brave the cold!
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