Here in the great north, as every Canadian knows, or has come to expect, we are in the season of "winter prep" a.k.a "autumn". Whether it's your new puppies first winter, or your dog just deserves some extras this year, we have collected some great (and local!) products, and pro-tips to help you keep your best pal warm all winter, no matter what adventures you go on.
Firstly, lets talk temperatures. Here in Edmonton, it is notoriously chilly, and with climate change, each season seems to be going to further extremes. Some breeds are more equipped for this than others, but once temps drop to below 0 Celsius, it's always important to keep an eye out on your dog no matter the breed. For dogs that aren't naturally "winter-y" it's better to start monitoring them in the autumn months for early signs of cold aversion. PetMD has a great article going in depth about coat types, and temperatures if you aren't sure. Look out for behaviors like shivering, whining, sluggishness, paw lifting, or looking to be lifted up, these are all signs your dog is done outside and wants to head in to a cozy house.
If your pup isn't blessed with a thick winter coat and undercoat, you might want to invest in some comfy layers for them, who says they can't "fake it till they make it" too?
There's a new shop in west Edmonton that has you (but mostly your dog) covered: PoochieMoochie offers an excellent selection of sweaters, coats, and boots, and hats for your pup. Lori, the stores owner, offers options that are very fashion forward, so if you and your dog need to look sharp, or you just want your dog to match the "vibe" they will have a choice for you too. You can order online, or drop by their west-end Edmonton location, if your dog wants (or needs) it, PoochieMoochie has it!
P.s. They have their grand opening party on Oct. 1st, so get out there and check out the awesome event they have put together.
Photo courtesy of Poochie Moochie
With our frosty and dry winter season comes every walkers nightmare...icy sidewalks, and many people salt them to try to keep them walkable. However, cold wet paws and salt don't mix, and too much can even burn the paw pads on your sweet pooch.
This year, you can be prepared thanks to a local company Salty Dog Beard Company. Now I know what you're thinking: "salty dog beards?!", but trust me, this is not-actually-salty-salty-ness you want on your dog. Salty Dog Beard company has a line of pet products called "Happy Hounds" that offers a deep moisturizing balm for noses and paws that help condition the skin against dry winter air. They also offer a protective paw balm to protect paws from ice and those salt-covered sidewalks.
I spoke to the owner, Blair and they said " Our customers love our Happy Hounds products. Our moisturizers and Paw Protectors help guard against, and repair the damage your pets paws experience from the elements, and the surfaces they walk on daily. All our products contain only ingredients that are pet safe, and natural, to give you the confidence that you're keeping your pet healthy and comfortable. At Happy Hounds, we pride ourselves on providing you with the best for your pet because we expect the same for our own; wholesome products for happy pets, and happy pet parents!"
Our advice? Get both! Cracked paw pads from dry air and salt can be painful for your pup, and can make them vulnerable to infection. I mean would you walk around Edmonton without sock and shoes in the winter? No heckin' way!
Staying warm and cozy doesn't end outdoors. It's important for your dog to have a warm, comfortable spot to curl up in after a crisp winters day walk, or a play out in the yard.
Millie & Max makes amazing beds and bedding for your dog. Designed as an anti-anxiety bed, they are fuzzy, soft, and "wrap" around your dog like a hug. It's truly the perfect place to curl up, I wish they came in human-size! They offer an array of sizes, and colors so you are guaranteed to find something that fits your dog, but also your décor.
Their customers have a ton of great things to say about their anti-anxiety beds, one customer had said "Our puppies melt right into the cushion and fall asleep. They are so happy in their fluffy cloud"
If your dog is a burrower, worry not, for they also offer fuzzy blankets, as well as "snuffle" mats for dogs that prefer a flat-floor lounge over a fluffy bed.
