by Phyllis Hemann

Created on: January 20, 2009   Last Updated: January 27, 2009

You winter-proof your house, plants and car - but what about your dogs? Dogs are not automatically ready for the winter chill, even breeds like Alaskan Malamutes.

Outdoor dogs with the proper conditions and coat (long-haired) can tolerate the cold - to a point. When temperatures dip below freezing, it's too cold for a dog.

Give dogs a doghouse large enough that they can turn around. It is best to have a house that is off the ground and provides a break from the wind and rain. Offer bedding to provide extra warmth and change it when it becomes damp - straw or blankets work well.

Fresh water is important. Invest in a heated bowl if you have problem with water freezing. Dogs that are active outdoors also require more protein and food intake to keep their bodies functioning in the cold.

Indoor dogs don't have the same tolerance for cold temperatures. It takes at least a month for a dog's body to adjust - with more time needed for extreme temperatures. If you want to transition an indoor dog to outdoors, wait until spring.

Just like us, dogs shiver when cold. Bring a dog that shivers in immediately and check for frostbite (gray or reddened skin), especially on vulnerable areas such as bellies, ears and legs. Older dogs and puppies are especially sensitive, so keep them sheltered during winter.

Keep dogs on leash at all times in winter weather. Dogs find their way by smell, which is hampered by winter conditions.

Short-haired dogs need extra protection. A dog coat or sweater that covers the chest and belly from neck to tail is ideal.

Heat rises, so be sure your pet has a place to sleep off the floor, and away from windows, outside doors and drafts.

Brush your dog regularly to maintain coat condition. When you wash your dog, dry the coat completely before going outside.

Paws are sensitive to cold, especially when ice and snow get stuck in them. Invest in a pair of boots or barrier cream especially for dog's paws. Products used to melt ice and snow (including salt) are hazardous to dogs, so wipe their feet, legs and bellies to remove any traces of these.

Don't leave a dog alone in a car. A car acts as a sauna when it's hot and as an icebox when it's cold.

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