While some Labradoodles love nothing more than staying cozy inside with their families, more than a few dogs in this breed line love cooler temperatures. Some might even love to run outside in the snow, especially if they’ve never seen it. The sheer novelty of a cold, snowy day could be the beginning of a grand adventure for your dog.
You’ll want to consider safety before you let your dog spend a significant amount of time outside. Veterinarians generally agree that fleece-haired dogs like Labradoodles shouldn’t be left out on any day when the mercury starts to dip below 20°F. When it gets colder, bring your Labrador Retriever-poodle mix inside.
Even if your Labradoodle adjusts well to spending some time in cooler temperatures, there are a few other things you’ll want to consider as you prepare your pup for winter.
Keep coat clean and healthy
Winter weather can be hard on a dog’s coat, so you’ll want to invest in the proper care products.
A good brush is essential for caring for your Labradoodle’s coat without pulling or tearing it. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting.
You’ll also want to consider your choice of shampoo. Some products were designed with your dog’s fur in mind.
For instance, BuddyWash was voted best for doodles, an essential accomplishment because of the combination of hair and fur these dogs tend to grow.
Many Labradoodles have the same fleece-like hypoallergenic coat as poodles, which makes sense considering their crossed lineage. This kind of coat requires special treatment, so you’ll want to use a cleaning product that’s sensitive enough for them.
However, you won’t want to bathe your dog too often during the winter, especially if their coat will be exposed to cooler air soon afterward.
Remember that water freezes at 32°F, so anything below this point could make your dog uncomfortably icy if they’ve been anywhere that’s wet.
Some pet owners brush baking soda into their dogs’ fur and then brush it back out again. This method of canine dry cleaning is a better idea during the coldest times of the year.
Depending on how your dog reacts to cold weather, you may consider investing in a sweater.
Dress up your Labradoodle
Although Labradoodles can withstand cold temperatures, they get uncomfortable around 40°F. If they have any joint inflammation, this problem might be all the worse.
A warm sweater might not seem like the most significant investment you’ll make in your dog’s health. Still, it can significantly improve its wintertime comfort, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather.
Ensure that your dog’s garment fits well and isn’t too tight. Your dog will let you know if it feels uncomfortable.
If you take walks outside in areas where the ground will be frozen or icy, consider fitting your dog with canine boots.
Labradoodles tend to have relatively soft feet so that the extra protection may be valuable.
The boots also can protect your dog’s feet from chemicals like ice melt and antifreeze.
Regardless of what method you pick to protect your dog, you’ll want to make sure that they continue to get exercise throughout the winter months.
Winter paw care for Labradoodles
Maintaining your Labradoodle’s paw health during the winter is essential to ensure their overall well-being and comfort.
Here are some tips to keep your dog’s paws in great shape:
Regular inspection: Check your Labradoodle’s paws regularly for any signs of injury, such as cuts, cracks, or redness. Winter conditions can be harsh, so catching any issues early is essential.
Keep paws clean: After walks, wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth to remove any salt, ice, or dirt. These substances can cause irritation and dryness, so a quick cleaning can help prevent problems.
Moisturize: Consider using a paw balm or moisturizer specifically designed for dogs. Applying it to your Labradoodle’s pads can help prevent cracking and dryness caused by cold weather and de-icing chemicals.
Protective gear: Invest in a good pair of dog boots. These can guard your dog’s paws against cold surfaces, salt, and sharp ice. Make sure the booties fit properly to avoid discomfort and potential injuries.
Trim fur between pads: If your Labradoodle has long fur, trim the hair between them. Excess fur can trap ice and snow, leading to discomfort and ice balls forming that can be painful for your dog.
Avoid salty areas: Walk your Labradoodle in areas where de-icing salt is minimal. If you must walk on salted sidewalks, clean their paws afterward to remove residual salt.
Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain healthy skin and paw pads. Consult your vet for dietary recommendations to support your Labradoodle’s health during colder months. Also, provide your dog with fresh water to ensure adequate hydration.
Limit exposure: If it’s frigid outside, limit your dog’s time outdoors. Shorter, frequent walks are better than long outings to ensure your dog doesn’t get too cold and its paws stay protected.
Stay active in cold weather
Though bad weather may make you less active, you should still engage with your dog, even if you must stay inside the whole time.
Canine diabetes mellitus and other diet-related disorders can become serious issues if your Labradoodle doesn’t get the right amount of exercise.
Equally important is bonding with your dog no matter what happens outside. Spend time with your dog daily, even if you must cut back on how much time you devote to other activities.
Ensure they get enough food and water since some dogs won’t eat right when it’s cold out.
Recognize cold weather dangers
Like all dogs, Labradoodles can be susceptible to cold-related health issues, especially during harsh winter.
Here are some tips to help you recognize the signs of discomfort and know when to seek veterinary care.
Shivering: If your Labradoodle shivers excessively, it may indicate that it feels too cold. This is often the body’s natural response to generating heat.
Behavior changes: Watch for changes in behavior, such as reluctance to go outside, increased clinginess, or a desire to stay in warmer areas of your home. If your dog seems unusually anxious or agitated, it could indicate discomfort from the cold.
Lethargy: Cold weather may make your Labradoodle less active than usual. If your Labradoodle is sluggish or shows signs of exhaustion after short walks, it might be a sign that it feels the chill.
Frostbite: Check for signs of frostbite, particularly on their ears, paws, and tail. If you notice any redness, swelling, or blackened skin, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance.
Paw issues: Cold weather can lead to ice and snow buildup between your dog’s paw pads, which can be painful and irritating. If your Labradoodle is licking or chewing at their paws, this could be a sign of discomfort.
Coughing or wheezing: Exposure to cold weather can worsen existing respiratory issues. If your Labradoodle is coughing, wheezing, or showing signs of breathing difficulty, alert your veterinarian.
Seek veterinary care if you notice any of the following:
Severe lethargy or weakness: If your dog cannot stand, doesn’t respond to stimulation, or appears disoriented, contact your vet immediately.
Signs of hypothermia: If your Labradoodle’s body temperature drops, they may display symptoms such as shivering, weakness, slowed breathing, and a decreased heart rate. Hypothermia is a serious condition that requires urgent veterinary care.
Persistent coughing or respiratory distress: If your dog exhibits ongoing coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, it’s vital to consult your vet immediately.
Visible frostbite or severe skin damage: If you suspect frostbite or see any areas of skin that appear damaged or blackened, get your dog to a vet immediately to prevent further injury.
Keep your Labrador busy indoors
Keeping your Labradoodle entertained indoors during the winter months can be a fun challenge.
Here are some tips and ideas for interactive toys, games, and mental stimulation:
Interactive toys
Puzzle feeders: These toys encourage your dog to think and problem-solve to get food or treats. They come in various difficulty levels, so you can choose one that suits your dog’s abilities.
Kong toys: Fill a Kong with peanut butter, yogurt, or treats. This can keep your Labradoodle busy as they try to lick out the contents.
Interactive games
Hide and seek: Play a game of hide and seek by hiding somewhere in the house and calling your dog to find you. This can engage their minds and get them to use their sense of smell.
Treasure hunt: Hide treats around the house and encourage your Labradoodle to sniff them out. This is a great way to engage their natural hunting instincts and provide mental stimulation.
Tug-of-War: Use a sturdy tug toy to play tug-of-war. This provides physical exercise and strengthens your bond.
Fetch: If you have a long hallway or a spacious room, you can play fetch indoors with a soft ball or toy to keep things safe.
DIY agility course: Set up a mini agility course using household items like chairs to weave through, tables to crawl under, or cushions to jump over. This can be both fun and mentally stimulating.
Training sessions
Basic obedience: Use the winter months to reinforce commands and teach new tricks. Even short, 5- to 10-minute sessions can be fun and effective. Consider using positive reinforcement with treats to keep them motivated.
Scent work: Use various scents you can find at home to teach your dog to recognize specific scents. Start with a strong-smelling item and gradually introduce new scents, rewarding your dog for finding the right one.
Socialization opportunities: If you can, invite a friend with a dog over for a playdate. This allows for social interaction and can be an exciting change of pace for your Labradoodle.
Engaging apps
Several dog-friendly apps and videos are designed to engage dogs. Some interactive apps encourage pets to touch the screen to ‘catch’ moving objects.
Calm activities
Consider canine massage or gentle grooming sessions.
These can be soothing and provide bonding time while keeping your Labradoodle calm during downtime.
Final thoughts on Labradoodle winter care
Keeping your Labradoodle comfortable and happy during winter requires attention to their unique needs.
Whether it’s ensuring their coat remains healthy, dressing them in appropriate clothing for colder temperatures, or maintaining their exercise routine, each aspect plays a vital role in their well-being.
Remember that while many Labradoodles enjoy the thrill of snow and cool weather, their safety should always come first.
By taking the necessary precautions and engaging with your furry friends, you can help them thrive even in the chill of winter.
Prioritizing their care during this season will improve their health and strengthen your bond.