Michael Colt, Bachelor Veterinary Medicine & Animal Science.
Ella Williams
Keeping a catahoula leopard dog warm and comfortable is no easy feat. Not only do the climate and landscape change dramatically throughout the year, but the demands on your home also change dramatically as well. When your household is crowded and your pets roam, it can be hard to give them the space and personal space they need.
When the people are gone, the dogs are in control. When everyone is home, the dogs are out. The climate, your neighbors, and the activities of your pets all change from one season to the next. A leopard dog needs to be able to withstand both extremes. That’s why keeping your catahoula leopard dog warm and comfortable is so important. Here are some tips on how to keep your catahoula leopard dog warm and comfortable this winter.
Find the Right Clothing
The first thing you’ll want to do is find the right clothing for winter. The ideal is to find a layer that is lightweight and breathable, but not so loose or baggy that it is a struggle for your dog to move. Ideally, the clothing should be able to wick away sweat but still provide a barrier between you and the cold.
The second thing you’ll want to do is find the right shoes for your dog. The ideal is to keep his paws warm while still being able to move them freely. Ideally, the shoes should be made with a traction sole, so they provide your pet with extra traction on any surfaces he walks or lies on.
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Don’t Forget the Boots
One of the biggest mistakes people make with their winter indoor cats is forgetting to put on their boots. While it is true that indoor cats can stay a few degrees colder than their outdoor counterparts, they are still capable of staying warm enough to survive in winter if they have the right gear on.
If you own a catahoula leopard dog, you need to make sure he has the right gear. If he is not wearing boots, he is likely to become chilled and uncomfortable. Although you shouldn’t ignore the cold because your cat is wearing gloves, it is important to ensure he is keeping warm enough without wearing gloves.
Keep Him Dry
Although a dog’s sense of smell is incredibly keen, water is necessary for him to function. Luckily, it is pretty hard to miss in winter. The ground often is frozen, and it can be hard for even the most determined dog to track down his water bowl. Without a water source, your cat will be pretty dry. Keep in mind that water would have to be at least halfway into his coat to be able to keep him warm.
Wrapping Is For The Wind, Not The Dog
When you receive your new catahoula leopard dog, he will be about 8-10 months old. At this age, he is actively growing, and the growth of his skin is due for a major change. What you must understand is that changes in your dog’s environment will cause major changes in your dog as well.
For example, changes in the weather can cause your dog to go outside in winter when he usually stays inside. Similarly, changes in your living habits can cause your dog to go outside less often. While there is no scientific proof, we believe that the change in your dog’s behavior is due to a combination of environmental changes and your pet’s need to feel comfortable in his own space.
Snug But Not Skin tight
While it is true that a dog’s natural body temperature is lower than that of a human being’s, his skin temperature is still quite warm. It is just that his outermost layer – the skin – is much warmer than his innermost, the blood. Most indoor dogs should be kept snug, but not skin tight.
A dog’s skin has hair follicles, or pores, which allows it to draw in cold air. If you pull too tight, the skin can become raw, chapped, and painful. Because of this, it is important to remember that a colder environment means a colder dog. It is best to keep your catahoula leopard dog’s body temperature between 36-38 degrees Fahrenheit.
Conclusion
The cold weather is coming, and with it, so is the cold weather for your pet. This is the time of year when you need to be on your guard for your dog’s safety. The cold is hard on animals, and they cannot help but feel a little cautious when they are confronted with a new environment.
If your pet is used to warm weather and is healthy and happy, then all you need to do is make sure he has the right gear and makes sure he gets plenty of exercise. For less-healthy dogs, you may want to consider purchasing a jacket that can be used as a blanket for your pet when he is really cold outside.
