Winter Myths

1. "If its too cold for me, it's too cold for my Rottweiler."

This “rule of thumb” truly depends on your dog. All dogs have different coats and body temperatures! Breed, age, and health status all affect how your dog will tolerate the dropping temperatures. Dogs have body language to tell you if they are too cold: shivering, slowed movements, limping, whining, and cold ears are all ways to tell if your dog needs to head inside.

2. "My Rottweiler can't get fleas and ticks in the the winter."

It is true that parasites are far more common when temperatures are warm outside, however the idea that they are ‘dead’ or ‘hibernating’ in the winter is false. Fleas and ticks look for warmth in the cold - including inside your home and in your dog’s fur! Keeping pets on preventative medication all year long will keep refuge-seeking parasites at bay.

3. "When my Rottweiler has a dry nose it means he/she is sick."

This has been so frequently passed on, it can often be thought of as a fact. It’s not! A dry nose doesn’t necessarily mean a sick dog. Warm, dry noses could be a sign that your dog was taking a nap and simply not licking his nose. In some dogs, it could also be a sign of aging.To be clear, a dry nose does sometimes mean that your dog is not feeling his best. Dehydration or exposure to windy, cold weather can dry up snouts. If you have concerns about your dog’s consistently dry nose, it is always best to call your veterinarian.