Goldendoodle Winter Care — Keeping Your Doodle Happy And Healthy
/Health problems relating to winter account for roughly 30% of the seasonal care concerns Americans have for their pets, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. This fact is significant for Goldendoodle owners because it highlights the necessity of winter care.
Whether you’ve had a Goldendoodle before or just brought one into your home, this guide covers what to do to protect your dog’s skin, coat, paws, and nose from the snow, ice, and winter conditions during the winter months. Advised in this guide are our top 5 tips to make winter smooth sailing for you and your pooch!
1. Maintaining a Healthy Coat
Goldendoodles are known for their unique coat texture and appearance, but extra care is needed during the winter months to keep it healthy. So what does a great coat routine look like?
Daily Brushing: Winter coats tend to mat more easily, especially when exposed to snow and moisture. To eliminate tangles and spread natural oils, brush your Goldendoodle at least 2-3 times per week. The Slicker Brush is easy to use and works well on Goldendoodle coats.
Bathing Routine: During winter, avoid over-bathing your dog as this removes natural oils from the coat and causes dryness. Use a moisturizing dog shampoo and conditioner combination to as needed.
Protection Against Cold: Depending on your Goldendoodle’s coat type and the severity of the cold, they may benefit from wearing a dog coat or sweater. Look for one that is comfortable and doesn’t restrict movement.
Trimming: While it’s important not to shave your Goldendoodle in winter, keeping their coat neatly trimmed can prevent snow and ice from clinging to the fur.
2. Protecting Their Paws
A dog’s paws are particularly vulnerable in cold weather, as ice, snow, and salt can cause irritation and cracking. Try a combination of these preventative measures for best results:
Paw Balm: Before heading out for a walk, apply a pet-safe paw balm or wax to your Goldendoodle’s paw pads. This creates a barrier against cold and harmful chemicals, such as de-icing salts. Check out this organic, pet-friendly balm offered by pawTree, our favorite pet brand.
Booties: If your Goldendoodle will tolerate them, dog booties are an excellent way to protect their paws from the elements. Look for waterproof options with non-slip soles for better traction.
Post-Walk Care: After every walk, rinse your dog’s paws with warm water to remove salt, ice, and other debris. Dry them thoroughly to prevent irritation or cracking, and reapply paw balm if necessary.
Trimming Fur Between Pads: Long hair between the paw pads can trap snow and ice, causing discomfort. Regularly trim this fur to keep their paws clean and comfortable.
3. Keeping Their Nose Moisturized
Cold air and indoor heating can dry out your Goldendoodle’s nose, leading to cracking and discomfort. The nose area is often neglected when it comes to overall canine health, so take steps to avoid any severe issues this winter.
Pet-Safe Nose Balm: Apply a thin layer of nose balm or coconut oil to keep their nose hydrated. Make sure to use a product specifically designed for dogs to ensure your dog get sick from licking a harmful substance.
Hydration: Drinking enough water is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. Staying hydrated supports overall skin and nose health, so keep water available for your dog in the winter months.
4. Supporting Skin Health
Dry, winter air paired with cold temperatures can cause your Goldendoodle’s skin to become irritated and itchy. Here’s how to prevent it:
Diet and Supplements: A balanced diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can help maintain healthy skin. If their kibble doesn’t contain these essential elements, consider adding a fish oil supplement to their meals after first consulting your vet.
Humidify Your Home: Combat the dryness caused by indoor heating by using a humidifier in the areas where your Goldendoodle spends the most time. Don’t underestimate the effectiveness of this simple but often overlooked action.
Avoid Overheating: While keeping the house toasty is tempting, excessive indoor heat can dry out your dog’s skin. Keep the temperature moderate and provide cozy blankets for warmth instead.
5. Exercise and Outdoor Safety
Winter shouldn’t mean skipping exercise, but it’s important to adjust your routine to suit the colder weather. Here’s how you can maximize time outside without putting your pup at risk:
Shorter Walks: Instead of one long walk, plan on shorter outings to limit exposure to the cold. Monitor your Goldendoodle for signs of discomfort, such as shivering or lifting their paws off the ground.
Avoid Salted Areas: De-icing salts can irritate paws and be toxic if ingested, so stick to pet-safe walkways and rinse paws thoroughly after being outside.
Indoor Play: On particularly cold days, provide plenty of indoor activities to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated. Puzzle toys, fetch in a hallway, or hide-and-seek games can all be great options. A simple internet search can also give you other ideas on how to keep your puppy entertained when going outside isn’t an option.
Final Thoughts:
Caring for a Goldendoodle in winter requires dedicated attention, but the investment in their care yields significant returns. By focusing on coat care, paw protection, nose moisture, skin health, and safe exercise, you can ensure your furry friend thrives during the winter months.
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