Embracing the Cold

A Special Winter Care Guide for Our Northern Smeraglia Doodles

Hello to our cherished Smeraglia Doodle family! As your beloved Goldendoodles, Teddy Bear Schnoodles, and Teddy Bear Twoodles start their journey with us here in sunny Alabama, many embark on new adventures to the colder, northern parts of the country. We want to ensure that this transition is as smooth and safe as possible, especially when it comes to the chill of winter. So, here’s our expert guide on preventing frostbite and keeping your Smeraglia Doodles warm and happy in their new frosty homes.

1. Limit Outdoor Time in Extreme Cold: Our Doodles love playing outside, but in the north, it’s essential to limit their exposure during particularly cold days to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

2. Cozy Shelters Are Key: If your Doodle spends time outdoors, ensure they have a warm, draft-free shelter. It’s a little piece of Alabama warmth in the cold north!

3. Bundle Up: Our Doodles might miss the Alabama sun, so help them out with dog coats or sweaters. This is especially important for our younger and senior Doodles who might feel the cold more.

4. Protect Those Paws: In Alabama, our Doodles are used to softer grounds. Up north, protect their paws from icy grounds and de-icing salts with dog booties or pet-safe ice melts.

5. Keep Them Dry: After a fun time in the snow, make sure to dry your Doodle off completely to keep their body temperature from dropping.

6. Stay Hydrated: Cold weather can be deceiving when it comes to hydration. Make sure your Doodle has access to unfrozen water.

7. Monitor Their Diet: Up north, your Doodle might need a little extra in their bowl to help them stay warm.

8. Regular Vet Visits: Keep up with vet checks to ensure your Doodle’s health isn’t affected by the colder climate.

Spotting and Treating Frostbite

Frostbite is a real risk in colder climates. Here’s how you can spot and respond to it:

1. Discoloration: Look for pale, gray, or bluish skin, especially on the ears, paws, and tail.

2. Unusual Coldness: If an area feels particularly cold or brittle, it’s a sign of concern.

3. Swelling or Blisters: These can indicate severe frostbite.

4. Pain When Touched: If your Doodle shows discomfort, it’s time for a vet visit.

Remember, if you suspect frostbite, gently warm the area with lukewarm water and seek veterinary care immediately.

From Sunny Alabama to Snowy North

As our Smeraglia Doodles make their way to cooler climates, we want to ensure they carry with them the warmth and care they experienced at our farm. If you have any concerns or need advice about winter care for your Doodle, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to support our extended Doodle family.

Stay warm, stay safe, and remember, no matter how far our Doodles travel, they always carry a bit of sunny Alabama in their hearts ❤️

Sherri Smeraglia