Cavapoo’s love to romp and play, but does this apply when it’s snowing, windy and cold? Keeping your Cavapoo warm should be your priority, and fortunately, numerous accessories and doggie products are available to help.
Cavapoos cope with moderately cold conditions due to their thick coats. Snowy, colder weather can be tolerated for shorter periods if they are dressed in the correct winter gear. Owing to their petite frame, Cavapoos can lose heat fast, and their age, health, and diet also play a role in their temperature tolerance.
Do Cavapoos enjoy the cold?
Cavapoos are always ready for a new adventure, and their thick wavy coat allows them to handle colder weather reasonably well. Your elderly or puppy Cavapoo may have more difficulty with the cold as their fur is usually thinner, making them more susceptible to the cold.
With the correct winter gear, Cavapoo’s will enjoy the snowy colder weather as much as any other time of year. Keep In mind, Cavapoo’s moved from a warmer climate to a colder one may need some time to adapt to the cold before finding it enjoyable.
Limiting the amount of time your Cavapoo spends in the cold or snow is also a sensible option. Halve their walking or exercise time and monitor your Cavapoo’s behavior for any signs of discomfort. Never leave your Cavapoo outdoors in the cold alone, and try to limit their toilet breaks when it’s cold.
How to tell if your Cavapoo is cold
Keeping a watchful eye on your Cavapoo when out in the cold, snowy weather is essential. If you notice any signs of discomfort, stop, and return your furry friend to their warm home.
Shivering
Typical indicators that your Cavapoo is cold are shivering and frantically looking for a place to keep warm. Shivering is a smart trick to increase the blood flow on the skin’s surface, making the body warmer.
Behavior changes
Your Cavapoo may crouch, lie hunched, or tuck their tail or paws under their body to keep warm. They may also appear to be anxious or uncomfortable. Some Cavapoo’s may even try to lift their paws off the ground or whine and bark.
Cold to the touch
Your Cavapoo may feel cold to the touch. It is usually best to check the dog’s ears, paws and tail first, as these extremities are usually the first to get cold.
Stiffness
Especially if your Cavapoo is older, they may display joint or muscle stiffness during colder weather. This is particularly apparent if your Cavapoo already suffers from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
Exercise refusal
Your Cavapoo suddenly lies down or stops dead in its tracks, refusing to walk. This can be a sign that they are feeling uncomfortable and cold. Always make sure to rule out any other medical or behavioral issues before determining that their refusal to walk is cold-related.
Risks of prolonged exposure to the cold
Cavapoos are happiest, with a core temperature ranging from around 101.0 °F (38.3 °C) to 102.5 °F (39.2 °C). If their core temperature falls below 98.96 °F (37.2 °C), you should immediately seek medical assistance.
In extreme cases where the core temperature drops below 95 °F (35 °C), your Cavapoo could suffer hypothermia which may range from mild to severe.
Cavapoos with hypothermia will have difficulty walking, exhibit shallow breathing, pale gums, lethargy, muscle stiffness or twitching, weakness, and sometimes loss of consciousness.
Frostbite is another concern if your Cavapoo has experienced extreme cold for long periods. Usually, frostbite will affect your dog’s paws and ears first, and if your Cavapoo suffers from diabetes or heart disease, they will be at a much higher risk of developing problems.
Tips for keeping your Cavapoo protected in the cold and snow
Fortunately, numerous winter clothing options and gear are available, which can significantly help your Cavapoo during those cold frosty days. Several adjustments to your furry friends sleeping arrangements, grooming and walking can also improve your Cavapoo’s comfort levels.
Please do not leave your Cavapoo in the snow for long periods as they could risk getting frostbite, hypothermia, or other severe medical conditions. Limit their time outdoors and have the correct gear before heading out.
Getting used to the gear
Try to get your Cavapoo used to wearing warm clothing and snow gear before heading out to play.
Provide your Cavapoo with treats when wearing their gear indoors for short periods of 10 or 15 minutes.
The first time that I put a winter coat on my dog, he froze like a statue and refused to move. Dogs can be very stubborn when trying new things, so some positive reinforcement always works well.
Winter or snow coats
Coats are an excellent idea for windy, cold, or snowy weather. Try choosing a coat that covers most of your dog’s body, and if conditions are icy, a coat with a hoodie is best.
Multiple coat designs and styles are available. Choose one that suits your local weather conditions. For instance, a fleece-lined coat is always an excellent choice for colder climates, and they are super comfy too.
Here are some excellent options to consider:
Vecomfy Fleece Lining Extra Warm Dog Hoodie. This fleece is extra warm, and the hoodie helps protect the sensitive ears and head areas of your dog. Lightweight and easy to put on, it comes in numerous color options.
ThinkPet Dog Cold Weather Coat. This is a thick padded, and waterproof coat that comes in numerous colors. It’s perfect for snowy and wet conditions, and what’s great is it’s reversible.
Paw protection and booties
Cavapoo’s paws are sensitive to the cold and especially to icy, snowy conditions. The ice and snow can dry out their paws, making them crack. This irritation can lead to your Cavapoo biting their paws, creating sores that lead to infection.
Although dogs’ paws cannot freeze due to their unique heat exchange system, they are still prone to frostbite if left in temperatures below 32 °F (0 °C) for 10 or 15 minutes.
Dog boots and paw balm or oils can help protect their paws from drying out and allow them to enjoy winter outdoor fun still.
Dog booties
Dog booties are excellent for keeping snow or debris off your Cavapoo’s delicate paws. Not only does your Cavapoo look adorable in them, but they are also available in various styles, colors, and traction.
When selecting booties, make sure to choose the correct size. A properly fitting boot will not slip off when your dog walks or runs and should not be so tight that you have difficulty getting it on or off. Boots also need to be replaced if your Cavapoo is still growing.
Here are some recommended boot options:
Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots. A trendy brand, and for a good reason. They provide excellent traction indoors and outdoors, are great for the snow, and their velcro strap makes them easily adjustable.
PawZ Booties Waterproof Protection. These all-weather booties are great for the rain and snow. They come in packs of 12 and are durable and disposable after several wears. I love that they are 100% biodegradable.
Paw balm, oils, and care
Some Cavapoo’s hate boots, and if they are anything like my dog, you can stand on your head, and they will still not wear them. If this is the case, don’t despair; balms and oils will be your new best friend.
These balms help create a barrier on your dog’s paws, keeping them hydrated. The oils and balms will also help prevent ice, snow, salt, or other debris from getting stuck between their toes.
Apply a thin layer of the oil or balm on your Cavapoo’s paws before and after being outdoors. It is best to remove the balm after walking with warm water and soap before reapplying. This will remove any dangerous chemicals that may have made their way onto your furry friend’s paws.
Choosing a natural oil or balm is also essential, as it’s nearly impossible to stop your Cavapoo from licking their paws from time to time. It is also recommended that you keep your Cavapoo’s paws nicely groomed and nails neatly cut to avoid any harmful debris getting stuck.
Check these great oil and balm options:
Pet Head Oatmeal Natural Paw Butter. I love that this butter is eco-friendly and safe. This butter is made from high-quality ingredients and is simple and easy to use.
Burt’s Bees Dogs All Natural Paw and Nose Lotion. Another good quality lotion that is safe for your puppy and adult Cavapoo.
SÄKER Organic Dog Paw Balm. So easy and quick to apply, and you don’t even need to get your fingers in it. This balm is organic, vegan, natural, and safe for licking.
Fur and skin protection
Winter is the time to take extra care of your Cavapoo’s fur. With your Cavapoo outdoors in winter, their fur and skin can become drier and more matted.
Giving your Cavapoo a good daily brushing will help remove any dead skin or shed and reduce any matting. When grooming your Cavapoo, consider keeping their hair longer than too short to prevent unnecessary winter chills.
Some Cavapoo owners have also been successful with placing a humidifier near their dog’s favorite nap spot to help prevent their skin from getting too dry.
Other helpful tips for keeping your Cavapoo warm
Depending on where you live, winters can be bitterly cold. Adjust your home’s thermostat or turn on the heating to keep the house comfortable for your furry friend.
Warm nap areas
Ensure that warm nap areas are available to your Cavapoo. A warm fireplace, heater, or even a comfy spot with a warm blanket will do the trick.
If you want to spoil your Cavapoo, this Furhaven Pet Bed Blanket for Dogs uses your Cavapoo’s natural body heat to keep them warm and is sherpa soft, waterproof, and machine washable.
Your Cavapoo should sleep indoors at night, especially in cooler weather.
A raised trampoline-type bed is also ideal for your Cavapoo as a lot of heat escapes when their beds are directly placed on the floor. The Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed is portable, lightweight, durable, and an excellent option.
Walks and baths on cold days
Never leave your Cavapoo to wander off on their own in snowy, frosty weather. Keeping them on a leash to avoid them running off and getting lost in a snowstorm and cold elements is highly advisable.
Finally, when bathing your Cavapoo on a cold day, ensure to wash them indoors and in warm water. Dry your Cavapoo immediately after bathing with a towel or hairdryer and keep them indoors. If not absolutely necessary, bathing should also be limited in winter, as regular bathing can further dry out their already stressed skin.
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