Simple Ways to Protect Your Dachshund in Cold Weather
Winter can be a very challenging time for both you and your little long dog, but with the right prep, you can make the chilly season a little more tolerable.
Here are some simple ways to protect your Dachshund in the cold weather.
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Table Of Contents
Winter Hazards for your Dachshund
Hypothermia:
When it’s really cold outside, your Dachshund’s body can lose heat faster than it can generate it.
This can lead to hypothermia, a dangerously low body temperature caused by extended time in the cold.
Look out for symptoms of hypothermia like strong shivering, extreme sleepiness, weakness, cold fur, slow heart rate, dilated pupils, pale or blue gums, and trouble breathing.
If you notice these signs, it’s time to warm up your pup and get them to the vet quickly.
Frostbite:
Your doxie’s sweet paws, legs, and ears are the most at risk for frostbite when the tissue under the skin freezes.
Frostbite isn’t always obvious, so keeping your dog protected from the frigid weather is key to avoiding a painful injury.
Ice Melt / Sidewalk Chemicals:
Be cautious around rock salt and ice melt on sidewalks and driveways during your winter walkies.
These chemicals can cause cracks, dryness, or even painful burns on your pup’s sensitive paws.
Plus, if your Dachshund licks their paws after walking on the ice melt, they could end up with mouth sores or major tummy troubles.
If they swallow any of it, it’s toxic and will require a trip to the vet.
Ways To Protect Your Dachshund in Cold Weather
Dachshund Coats
Whether your Dachshund is a short-hair, long-hair, or wirehair, their fur is pretty thin, so they do get cold easily.
As your Dachshund ages, it becomes even harder to regulate their body temperature.
To help keep your Dachshund warm this winter, I recommend getting a couple of coats or sweaters to keep them warm and dry when going outside for walks and potty time.
Best Winter Coat for Dachshunds
This Dachshund Puffer Coat is a great choice for keeping your pup warm during winter. Both of my minis, Gretta and Eko absolutely love theirs! (pictured below)
This coat is weather-resistant and extra thick, perfect for chilly days.
If you’re interested in exploring more great Dachshund coat options, take a look at our post: Top 10 Best Dachshund Coats.
Paw Protection
I personally use Dog Paw Balm on both of my mini Dachshunds. They don’t mind it when I apply the balm to their paw pads right before their daily walk.
Paw Balm (or wax) protects your doxie’s paws from toxic salt and ice melt used on the sidewalks during the winter season. It helps keep your pup’s paws moisturized and even helps heal paw pad wounds.
Wipe Them Off
After your chilly walks outside, gently wipe off your long dog’s paws, belly, and legs with a warm damp cloth or dog grooming wipes. This helps to prevent irritation from any salt or ice melt chemicals on the sidewalks.
Long-Haired Dachshund Tip: A fellow doxie mama once told me her favorite trick for snow is to use a wire whisk to gently remove ice balls that get stuck between their toes and fur.
Limit Outside Time
Dogs can get frostbite or hypothermia when cold weather temperatures go below 40°F. When you take your doxie for their walk, make sure to always dress them in a warm winter coat, protect their paws, and keep your walks brief. 10-15 minutes max.
If it’s Too Cold for You, It’s Too Cold for Them – Stay Home!
Dachshunds need to stay active all year round, even when the weather isn’t ideal. On those chilly or rainy days, keeping your little long dog physically and mentally stimulated indoors is essential.
Here are some really fun indoor games and doggie IQ puzzles that will keep your doxie entertained, engaged, and moving while staying warm and cozy at indoors.
Post You Will Love: Simple Ways to Keep Your Dachshund Busy
Bonus Tips
- Keep your home humidified. Dry heat can cause dry, itchy skin on your doxie.
- Avoid giving your Dachshund a bath in the winter. Bathing too often can strip away their natural oils, causing itchy, dry skin and paws.
Up Next: Best Winter Coats for Dachshund
My dachshund( 22 lbs Standard smooth coat) likes to play in the snow ( and in the rain too). He wants to take long walks in the winter. He wears a waterproof puffer jacket and a sweater while going out. Should I forcefully take him back home after 15-20 minutes.
Hi there! It’s wonderful that your dachshund enjoys playing outside, even in the snow and rain. A waterproof puffer jacket and sweater are great choices to keep him warm and protected. On very cold days, I personally recommend limiting walks to 15-20 minutes to help prevent issues like cracked paws or frostbite. However, if the weather isn’t too freezing, feel free to let him play and enjoy himself. For longer playtimes outside, applying ‘paw balm’ to his paws can help protect them from dryness and cracking.