Winter can bring with it some pretty harsh weather that can be dangerous to dogs. Here are 17 reasons not to keep your dog outdoors in the winter months.
- Frostbite can be very painful, lead to amputation, and cost a lot to treat.
- Dogs have a warmer body temperature than humans.
- It can be classified as animal abuse, which is a crime.
- Local authorities may notice and you could get in trouble.
- Dogs can freeze to death, or die from hypothermia,
- Their physical appearance will change due to bad conditions.
- They will be noisy and vocalize their distress.
- They can be targeted by predators.
- Living outdoors can be dangerous for a dog.
- Temperatures beneath 20°F put a dog at a risk of hypothermia.
- No matter how insulated their doghouse, dogs outside always get sick much more easily.
- Other dog owners may follow your example.
- Despite being from the same family, modern dogs do not have the insulation that wolves do.
- Temperatures are affected by wind chill and many other external factors.
- A very cold dog may attempt to break out of their yard in desperation.
- Their behavior may change, becoming distrustful.
- Your neighbors may attempt to help your dog by contacting the authorities.
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