1. WRAP UP ON WALKS: your dog needs regular walks regardless of the weather but make sure they’re warm. Podengos are quite robust but they can get cold so consider getting them a coat for the colder weather.
2. CHECK FOR SNOW BETWEEN THEIR TOES: check your dog’s paws and dry them thoroughly after they've been outside. Podengos easily get snow compacting between their toes and ice balls along their legs - both of which are very uncomfortable.
3. CHECK FOR SALT AND GRIT BETWEEN THEIR TOES: clean their paws at the end of your walk as salt and grit from roads and pavements can also get lodged between their toes.
4. KEEP THEM WARM AND DRY: dry off wet and muddy dogs after walks and make sure they have a cosy bed to return to which is away from any cold draughts.
5. KEEP THEM ACTIVE INDOORS: some dogs can be very reluctant to venture out into the cold but they still need exercise and stimulation to keep them occupied while indoors.
6. ADJUST THEIR FOOD IF NECESSARY: if a dog is less active in the winter months, make sure you adjust the amount of food you give them accordingly to avoid weight gain.
7. MAKE SURE THEY HAVE GOOD RECALL: if you let them off the lead, bear in mind that cold weather often brings reduced visibility in foggy or snowy weather conditions. And as always, make sure their microchip details are up to date with your correct contact information.
8. MAKE THEM VISIBLE: as the nights draw in earlier and the sun rises later, consider attaching a small light to your dog's collar or using a fluorescent coat so they can be seen when out on walks.
9. NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG IN THE CAR UNATTENDED: just as cars can become fatally hot in summer months, temperatures can drop very quickly in cold weather.
10. STAY AWAY FROM FROZEN LAKES AND RIVERS: keep your dog away from stretches of frozen water as it's impossible to tell how secure the surface is. Keep them on a lead if you think they’ll be tempted to jump in.
