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Some dogs are made for old man winter. Their inner coats grow dense and they think nothing of playing in the snow. Other pooches shiver at the idea of braving the bitter cold of northern winters. As a rule older dogs, puppies, ill animals and smaller dogs have a harder time with harsher weather.

If your pet likes to snuggle into warm cushions, stays on the porch or patio when let outside and sometimes shivers when a cold blast of air strikes him. He's probably telling you "BRRRR!" This is an excuse for dressing your four legged child in the newest sweater fashion for canines. The clothing serves the purpose of helping retain body heat.

But even if you don't chose to dress your dog there are plenty of ways to help him stay comfortable even in the bitter cold. Always allow your animal to keep his winter coat. Save shaving and otherwise thinning his coat for warmer times.

If your dog stays outside provide him with a shelter that is small enough to retain his body heat. Igloos are perfect for winter. Get some hay or straw for bedding rather than blankets. This will keep your dog dry and comfy. If there's a place for your dog inside your home make sure it is draft free and provide warm bedding.

Dogs that spend time outside will probably need increased food since the body burns more calories to maintain heat. Inside pooches may want to eat more due to the cold weather but have less opportunity to burn off the extra calories. If you have an outside pet make sure his water isn't frozen (digesting ice severely lowers body temperature) and that his food is frost free.

When taking your pooch for a ride be aware that cars retain winter cold as they do summer heat. Don't leave your dog unattended or you could come back to a frozen pet. When you come back home (or inside from the yard) dry his paws, legs and stomach to keep his skin warm and healthy.

This one we've heard over and over - keep antifreeze out of reach and completely clean up any spills. Antifreeze is appealing to dogs but digesting the stuff is lethal to your pet.

You're always careful to keep your dog home and safe but during winter months make sure you have some form of ID on him. Severe winter weather causes pooches to lose their sense of smell and makes it harder for them to find their way home should the unthinkable happen.

We all love our furry family members and want to keep them safe even while enjoying a wonderful winter day.

Learn more about this author, Cindy Abbate.
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