Maltipoo Winter Care

What happens: Air in the winter is much drier than at other times of the year, even when it's snowy because cold air holds much less moisture than warm air. When winter air is warmed (when you heat your home) it does not add moisture and in fact can make it worse. So, throughout the winter and even into the spring, dogs can suffer the effects of arid air which includes irritated eyes, sensitive itchy skin, and/or increased snoring or coughing due to dry nasal and/or breathing passages. 

What to do: There are some DIY methods to try to add moisture to the house in the winter; but, keep in mind that these may not be effective enough to see noticeable results. You can leave out bowls of water (especially over heating elements), keep the bathroom door open when showering, and add houseplants. 

Note that this is also excellent to use all year-long; it adds a barrier to help protect from hot walking surfaces and works to repel allergens and irritants. 

You probably know what chapped lips feel like; it's painful and uncomfortable. Dogs can get chapped noses and it's just as bad. The nose is very vulnerable to this because dogs lick their noses hundreds of times per day. Usually these are such quick flicks that owners never even notice. But, the nose holds the moisture from saliva and then when a dog goes outside, cold air and whipping winds can cause it to chap. 

If a Maltipoo develops a chapped nose in the winter, this can lead to peeling and even cracking which leaves it open to possible infection. 

Have you ever noticed that your own hair tends to become drier in the winter? A combination of cold arid air and manufactured heat can indeed draw moisture out of hair shafts. This is a common issue with Maltipoos and other breeds that have hair as opposed to fur. And, full-body dry skin goes hand in hand with this. A dog can develop patchy dry areas without or without flaking. In some cases, hair follicles can become damaged, leading to hair loss. In any case, dry skin can be quite itchy and irritating. 

1) Be sure that you are using a quality shampoo and wash-out conditioner every 3 weeks. Since dogs tend to stay indoors more in the winter, owners may give baths less frequently. But, baths should not just be given to wash off dirt and debris. It's your opportunity to thoroughly soak your Maltipoo's body in something that will promote healthy skin and coat. 

Earthbath's conditioner is wonderful as well and should be massaged and then left in the coat for 3 to 5 minutes before being rinsed out. When you dry your dog, do not rub the coat; rather, pat dry which will help prevent tangles. 

2) Use a coat spray. A leave-in coat spray works around the clock to offer many benefits. It helps the coat repel dirt, debris, and irritants, locks in moisture to help prevent dry hair, adds shine, creates a softer texture, helps prevent tangles (for those with long coats), and can help make a dog smell great. 

This should be spritzed onto your Maltipoo's coat at least two to three times per week, but a light mist can be used daily. This can be done while you are brushing your puppy or dog or can be sprayed on and rubbed through the coat by hand. 

One of the biggest challenges in the winter is keeping a dog active when brutal cold and inclement weather makes you both want to stay inside. And, it certainly doesn't help that the Maltipoo has a fine coat of hair as opposed to thick fur seen with many other dog breeds. 

Once you have your Maltipoo bundled up, don't forget about yourself. Often, owners want to rush back inside before dogs do.

Winter is the most difficult season for handling a dog's bathroom needs. Big snow drifts, freezing weather, and ice or snow storms are all reasons why both you and your Maltipoo may not want to venture outside multiple times per day, especially in the early morning or after the sun as set. This can be a challenge for both dogs that are in the middle of learning house training and those that fully understand the rules. 

Fortunately, there are some things that can help. For some of these, you will want to plan far in advance. 

2) Keep the area shoveled. While you may be exhausted after finishing your driveway, it's a lot easier to shovel right after a snowfall than it is to eventually dig out a bathroom area that has several feet of compacted snow. 

3) Set up an alternative indoor bathroom area in another room. If your Maltipoo is in training or is trained to go outside, you may wish to stick with a method of leading your dog to a designated bathroom area, stay to supervise, and give praise and reward once the deed is done. This ensures that when spring eventually comes around, your dog's understanding of the rules is intact.  

If you choose this method, it is best to set this up in a spot like a garage or four-season porch. You can place down pee pads or use a grass mat which mimics what a dog is used to outside. 

4) Or, use pee pads in your Maltipoo's normal resting area. This can work if you already have a set-up for your puppy or dog for times that you are away from home. This generally means having a defined space such as an indoor canine playpen with pee pads lining the floor.

Note that if you have a young puppy or a small adult that cannot jump, the 24" size may work just fine. 

Whether you love winter or you can't wait for it to be over, one thing is for sure: The long cold season can be a tough one for dogs. Please prepare for this so that your Maltipoo can get through the winter in good health and comfort. 

Best Treats and Snacks for a Maltipoo - Snacks given between meals and treats given for rewards should be held to the same high standards as your Maltipoo's main meals. 

Maltipoo Tear Stains - This is a common issue with Maltipoos. Read what causes discoloration under or around the eyes and steps you can take to remove them for good. 

Maltipoo Allergies - This can be a year-round problem and it can be tricky to pin-point the triggers. Read helpful tips to decrease a dog's reactions to airborne, seasonal, food, or contact allergies. 

Do you have your PetMaltipoo Book? Our PDF ebook is the most comprehensive book of its kind. Learn more.