Winter Safety Tips for Dogs
Keep your dog safe & healthy by following these winter safety tips
Keep Your Miniature Schnauzer Safe & Healthy During the Brutal Winter Months
 The cold weather months can be brutal on all of us, including our pets. And it's a common misconception that dogs will be okay outside, even during the winter. But the truth of the matter is, our pets need protection from the cold weather just like we do. So, here are some winter safety tips to follow to help ensure your Mini Schnauzer stays safe and healthy during the wintry months.
Top 10 Winter Safety Tips for Dogs
- Antifreeze is Deadly! Even in small amounts, if ingested, antifreeze will destroy your dog's kidneys. Early signs of antifreeze poisoning include disorientation, followed by coma and death. So be sure to clean up any spills immediately and thoroughly. Keep antifreeze containers locked up! And most importantly, see your vet immediately if you suspect your Miniature Schnauzer of antifreeze poisoning.
- Protect Paw Pads Chemicals and rock salt placed on icy roads and sidewalks can really do a number on your dog’s pads. Paw pads can become cracked or burned and ingesting any of the chemicals can cause gastrointestinal problems. Always be sure to wash paw pads off with warm water after walks or time spent outside. tip: Using pre-moistened grooming wipes is another option for cleaning your Schnauzer's paws.
- bonus winter safety tip: Paw Tectors will protect your dogs paws year round. These water-resistant dog boots protect paws from snow, ice melt, gravel, sand and hot pavement while also providing traction on smooth indoor surfaces.
- bonus winter safety tip: Purchase eco-friendly and pet-friendly de-icer products (like Safe Paw Ice Melt
 ) for your sidewalks, door steps, and drive. Or you can use sand or cat litter. It won't melt the ice but will offer you and your pet good traction and they're safe for your Schnauzer.
- Regular Grooming It's important to keep your Schnauzer groomed during the winter months. His coat provides him insulation and in order to do its job properly, it needs to remain free of mats and knots. Also, keep your dog's nails clipped and the hair between the pads trimmed for better traction and to prevent snow from clumping in these areas.
- bonus winter safety tip: Rub some vaseline on your Schnauzer's paw pads before going outside to prevent snow from sticking and again when he comes back inside to soothe and relieve them.
- Winter Gear & Apparel Since it becomes dark so much earlier in the day, along with the reduced visibility created by inclement weather, using reflective gear when walking your dog is a good idea. Reflective gear is especially important for white or light-colored dogs that can easily blend into the background making them nearly impossible to see. You can also have your Schnauzer wear a raincoat, coat, or sweater to help keep him dry and warm. And don't forget the dog boots
 to help protect his paws.- bonus winter safety tip: Dogs can lose their scent in snow and ice so be sure to keep your Schnauzer on leash when outside and make sure he's wearing ID tags with your current info, should he become lost.
- Arthritis and Joint Care Cold Temps can really aggravate arthritis, so if you have a dog with arthritis or one who has a few joint problems consult your veterinarian about the possible medications or natural solutions that may offer relief. PetAlive Muscle and Joint Support for Pet Rheumatic Conditions and Arthritis
 - Indoor Dogs vs. Outdoor Dogs Depending on whether your dog spends most of his time indoors or out, each environment presents it's own winter challenges.
warning: As a rule, dogs should not be left outside for long extended periods of time. In below freezing temps, your Miniature Schnauzer could freeze to death! Indoor Dogs have a tendency to gain weight, since they are not getting as much outdoor time and exercise. You should consult your vet on adjusting your indoor dog's caloric needs. When you do let your indoor dogs out, remember that they cannot tolerate the extreme temps for long. Their body temperatures have become accustom to their indoor living, so think about buying a doggy sweater, dog coat or a Snuggie for dogs. Outdoor dogs are exposed to extreme cold temps and can suffer hypothermia and frostbite winter safety tip: A dog's ears, tails, and paws are highly susceptible to frostbite. Make sure your Miniature Schnauzer has adequate shelter, check his water often (make sure it does not freeze. If necessary, consider purchasing a heated water bowl, and provide him with extra food. note: Outdoor dogs need more food than usual for maintaining body heat and energy. - Frozen lakes and ponds A lake or pond that has frozen over can become life threatening for your Miniature Schnauzer. Dogs don't realize where the ice may be too thin. Once they fall in, they are susceptible to hypothermia or drowning.
Dogs are also more prone to leg injuries and ligament tears on the ice. It's best to avoid icy surfaces with your Miniature Schnauzer. - Stock Up on Supplies Many a winter outage has caught us all off guard, at one time or another. Be prepared this year by stocking up on extra kibble, dog treats, blankets, medications, and by having a dog first aid kit prepared and well-stocked. Also, have a friend or neighbor on-call who's willing to help out by caring for your pet in case you get stranded away from home, due to the winter weather conditions.
Winter Safety Products for Dogs |   |  |   |   |  |  |  |  |  |
- Never Leave Your Dog Alone in the Car This safety tip is not meant just for the summer time heat, but for any time. During the winter, your car will hold in the cold temps, making it like a freezer and your Miniature Schnauzer could freeze to death. Plus, left alone in a car, your dog becomes more vulnerable to dog thieves. And one last winter safety tip:
- Snuggle Up Because a dog's normal body temperature is a few degrees higher than our own, the next time you feel a chill, instead of grabbing your blanket... snuggle up with your Miniature Schnauzer. It's a great way to feel warm and loved.
I highly recommend it! 
Check Your Local Forecast Before Heading Out! Stay Safe & Warm!
An Extra Safety Tip for our Feline Friends: Cats left out in cold temperatures like to tuck up under the hoods of cars or against its inside wheels. Before starting and/or moving your vehicle, please bang on the hood of your car to warn the cat to move. "Knowledge Share"... If you found this article helpful and informative please share it with your dog-loving friends by clicking on one of the share links (like facebook or twitter) at the top right or bottom of this page.
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