Does your mini sausage resist time outdoors as the mercury drops? Here are a few tips to keep your pup in tip-top shape, even during the coldest days of the year.
- Keep playtime short. Keep in mind that doxies are small and more susceptible to the cold. A few short bursts of activity are more appropriate this time of year than one long walk.
- Dress appropriately. Just as humans need to bundle up, so too does your little companion. There are many coats and sweaters made to fit the longer body and broad chests of dachshunds. Bundle up your pup!
- If your dog is shy about going out in the cold, try coaxing them with their favorite game or toy. Again, keep the play time brief so that they enjoy it. Leave them wanting more rather than allowing them to become too cold.
- Does your dog love walks around the neighborhood. Great! As you’re both enjoying the sites and fresh air, be on the lookout for sidewalk salt, and avoid this to avoid irritation to your doxie’s paws.
- Make snowy days extra fun. Try shoveling paths for your mini sausage to run through. If the snow is extra deep, you can even dig a short tunnel to make things interesting. Or toss a few treats into the snow and let your pup sniff them out as a reward.
Remember, with the right duds and some attention to your dog’s cues, you can still both enjoy playtime in the great outdoors, even on the snowiest winter days.