Dog owners warned against dangerous conditions which could see your pet collapsing

An expert has issued a warning to dog owners as the UK continues to be battered with cold conditions. 

The nation has experienced an icy grip since the beginning of the year.

According to Canine Cottages - which provides dog-friendly holiday homes - and clinical animal behaviourist, Rachel Rodgers, freezing temperatures and icy conditions can have a huge impact on your pooch's health. 

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rachel warned: 'If your dog slows down on their walk, is cold to the touch, slows their breathing or worse, collapses during or after the walk, you must seek veterinary attention immediately.' 

The expert stressed that in such situations, it's crucial to warm your dog up gradually, and advises against the use of hot water bottles and heat pads. 

In the UK, pets are not often exposed to extreme temperatures - but the cold weather impacts various species and ages of pups differently, with lifestyle being an added factor. 

Certain types of dogs are especially at risk of struggling in colder temperatures, particularly puppies, older dogs, pups with less fur and those with existing health issues. 

According to the expert, puppies cannot effectively regulate their body temperature, meaning owners need to take caution when taking them outside.

Extra care is also advised with smaller dogs and dogs with thinner coats or less body fat, such as greyhounds. 

Additionally, older dogs or those with health conditions run the risk of suffering with hypothermia.

Wintry conditions can also potentially aggravate conditions such as arthritis, and cause flare ups of pain. 

Rachel suggested dog owners purchase a coat for furry friends that are vulnerable to colder temperatures whilst out on walks. 

However, she explained that dogs who are used to an icy or snowy environment will most likely manage well when freezing temperatures hit, and may not necessarily require a coat. 

Owners are also encouraged to keep lengthy walks short, as dogs are used to being snuggled up indoors with bedding, blankets and heating keeping their temperature regulated. 

It's equally important to ensure your dog does not tread in harmful substances, such as grit or de-icer as it can be harmful.

Rachel advised: 'Cleaning with warm water rather than hot and applying some paw balm helps to heal and protect dry, cracked skin and keep you dog’s paws in good shape.'

It comes after a vet has revealed the signs your dog might be suffering from depression. 

In the past two weeks alone, a spike in online searches for 'depression in dogs' has surged by 62 per cent.

Dr Anna Foreman, in-house vet at Everypaw Pet Insurance, has suggested that the increase is linked to the post-holiday slump, as families return to work and school.

She said: 'This increase in contact with their owners over Christmas, followed by a sharp change in January back to normal may drive depression.' 

In light of this, Dr Anna has outlined the key warning signs for pet owners and shared tips on how to lift your dog's spirit during the long winter months.

The expert explained how pets can experience depression in the winter due to shorter days, colder weather, and less exercise. 

The decrease in outdoor activity and sunlight may cause them to become lethargic or lose interest in food and play. 

Equally, some dogs who do not experience a drop in appetite levels may then gain weight and so be less active, which can contribute to depression.   

Dr Anna said: 'Like humans suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), dogs can become depressed over the winter months. 

'It has not been proven that the same sunlight-affected mechanism occurs in dogs as it does in humans, however dogs are often more lethargic, quiet and have a decreased appetite over the winter months.' 

What are the signs owners should look out for that a dog may be depressed?

Dr Anna advised owners to look out for changes in their dogs' behaviour over the colder months, such as lethargy, loss of appetite or weight fluctuations. 

Unusual behaviours should be equally acknowledged, such as chewing on furniture, urinating or defecating in the house or eating things they shouldn't. 

Dr Anna advised: 'Any of these signs can be linked with underlying medical problems as well as being related to depression, and so if seen, should be discussed with your vet.'

How can owners keep their dog happy this winter?

To keep your dog happy during winter, maintain a consistent routine, and ensure they get enough exercise and light, and adjust their meals based on activity levels. 

Schedule regular walks during the day to ensure your dog is getting as much light exposure as possible. 

Much like with humans, exercise also aids anxiety and depression. 

If your dog acts out, it's important to use positive reinforcement instead of punishment to prevent confusion.

Dr Anna added: 'Scolding a dog for acting out does not ‘punish’ them as such, as they do not associate the two events. 

'Rather praising them for positive behaviour is more likely to be effective at reducing negative behaviours.'

She continued: 'When going back to work or school, schedule time in your day for your dog to prevent boredom and depression.
Playing, walking or simply cuddling on the sofa will help your dog with the transition.'

Which dogs are more at risk to depression? 

Older dogs, those with a history of behavioural issues, and rescue dogs who may have experienced trauma are more likely to develop depression, especially during the colder months when routines change. 

Dr Anna said: 'Dogs who have previously been abandoned, or had some sort of other traumatic event occur, are also more prone to depression - rescue dogs for example may have been through these situations.' 

Meanwhile, older dogs are likely to be prone to depression as they become less mobile and more dependent on their owners - so it's important to factor this in when returning to work and school as the holidays draw to a close.