With the weather getting ever colder, many people will be cranking up the central heating. And while this is a comfort for us humans to keep us cosy in winter, heating can sometimes be a bit much for dogs.
Here, Lintbells, manufacturers of natural pet supplements, share some of the ways central heating can have an impact on our four-legged friends, as well as some helpful tips to keep your pooch happy and healthy this winter.
Temperature check
For the most part, dogs were traditionally outdoor animals; so, the indoor temperature, even in winter, will be more than comfortable for your pooch. Many dog owners might think their dog could get cold in the house and therefore turn the heating up. So, be mindful of the temperature you have set, as to not overheat your dog and possibly cause any discomfort such as dehydration or exhaustion.
If you’re not planning on being out of the house for more than a few hours, then your house will be able to retain more than enough heat to keep them warm. Be sure to leave out comfy beds and blankets for them if they do need more to keep warm.
Breed differences
The breed of dog you have can have a dramatic effect on how well they deal with the cold. Some breeds, such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are bred for cold weather and will be fine in the colder temperatures. However, some smaller breeds or dogs with thin coats such as Whippets or Greyhounds, may need some protection from the cold – central heating can play a part in keeping them warm, but be sure to keep an eye on the temperature as previously mentioned.
High costs
While most of us would do anything for our pets, this does sometimes come at a cost. The Energy Saving Trust found that leaving the heating on all day for your pet, could add up to an extra £140 a year on your energy bills*. As mentioned before, in most cases, dogs do not need the extra heating to keep warm as their coat will do that for them. Being more thoughtful when controlling and setting your heating will allow you to save money in the long run, while also keeping your four-legged friend comfortable.
Don’t fur-get
With the heating more likely to be turned on at this time of year, the increase in temperature can cause a decrease in humidity, which can leave your pet’s skin feeling dry and uncomfortable.
We’ll also be more likely to keep our windows and doors shut over the winter, and combined with the heat from the radiators, the air flow in the house can create ideal conditions for dust mites to flourish – a common trigger of allergies for both dogs and humans.
Higher temperatures can also lead to fleas being present all year round in your house leading to further irritation for your pooch.
Don’t fret though – Lintbells are here to help with their coat and skin supplement range. YuDERM Itching Dog has the right blend of Omega 3 and 6 oils to help itchy dogs who might scratch while also calming their sensitive skin.
*Energy Savings Trust research, 2015 – https://www.energysavingtrust.
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