Adjusting to the winter cold for an Italian Greyhound

An Italian Greyhound can adapt quite well to a variety of environments, but they are not natural winter dogs. They are not a double-haired breed, which means that their hair is not intended to retain body heat in the same way that a Siberian Husky would.

An Italian Greyhound also maintains a lean body weight without excess body fat, and fat is part of what helps keep a dog warm. This does not mean creating a fat puppy! It simply means that the natural body structure of the IG is not made for cold climates.

For those GIs that live in colder climates or where there is even snow, certain things must be done to ensure that the dog stays as warm as possible during those cold months of the year.

Here are some tips to keep your Italian Greyhound warm during the winter:

o Clothes! This is not a fashion statement, but dogs with closed coats should always wear a woolen coat or warm sweater when going outdoors. Many of these dogs also appreciate wearing the sweater around the house. Helps trap body heat close to the Italian Greyhound’s skin and body.

o Give your dog plenty of warm beds around the house. Some dogs like snuggle-type dog beds, which help the dog stay warm by snuggling indoors. You can also buy dog ​​beds with built-in heaters or you can buy a special electric heater that can be placed inside any type of dog bed.

If you prefer not to use an electric blanket or bed, you can use human body wraps that are heated in the microwave or create your own. Fill a small square of fabric or a pillow with rice or beans and sew it. This pillow can be heated in 30 second intervals up to 1 ½ minutes.

o Remember to try to locate your Italian Greyhound’s litter away from drafts or cold spots like concrete or tile. Instead, find an area that receives warm natural light through a window every day, as dogs love to sunbathe.

o Don’t leave your Italian Greyhound outside. These are not outdoor dogs, especially in cold winter weather.

o Sometimes it is advantageous to feed your GI a little more food during the winter, especially if you have frequent chills. Adding a small extra amount gives you extra calories and fat so you don’t lose any of your current weight. It’s okay to gain up to 2-3 pounds during the winter, but no more!

An Italian Greyhound, while not a natural cold weather breed, can learn to adapt well to its surroundings as long as it is an indoor dog, has enough warm clothing and bedding, and is given a little more food.

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