Dogs' fur has several essential functions, even during the warmest months of the year.
A dog's fur plays an essential role in its survival and comfort, especially in winter. Here is a detailed explanation of its functions:
1. Thermal insulation
A dog's fur acts as a natural insulator. It is composed of two main layers:
A dog's fur acts as a natural insulator. It is composed of two main layers:
The undercoat (or down): This is a dense and soft layer, located close to the skin, which traps body heat and protects the dog from cold. It is particularly well-developed in breeds adapted to cold climates (like Huskies or Malamutes).
The guard coat: These are longer, coarser hairs that protect the undercoat and skin from bad weather, such as rain or snow.
2. Protection against bad weather
The guard coat is often waterproof, which prevents moisture from penetrating to the skin. This helps keep the dog dry and prevents a drop in body temperature due to humidity.
The guard coat: These are longer, coarser hairs that protect the undercoat and skin from bad weather, such as rain or snow.
2. Protection against bad weather
The guard coat is often waterproof, which prevents moisture from penetrating to the skin. This helps keep the dog dry and prevents a drop in body temperature due to humidity.
3. Temperature regulation
Fur is not only useful for protecting against cold: it also helps maintain a stable body temperature. In winter, it retains heat, and in summer (especially if well-maintained), it protects against UV rays and overheating.
Fur is not only useful for protecting against cold: it also helps maintain a stable body temperature. In winter, it retains heat, and in summer (especially if well-maintained), it protects against UV rays and overheating.
4. Natural adaptation
Some dog breeds, especially those originating from cold climates, have fur that changes with the seasons. For example:
Some dog breeds, especially those originating from cold climates, have fur that changes with the seasons. For example:
In winter, their undercoat becomes thicker to improve insulation.
In spring, they shed some of their fur (molting) to avoid overheating in summer.
5. Physical protection
Fur also protects the skin from injuries, irritations, and insect bites. In winter, it acts as a barrier against icy wind, scratches from ice or snow, and even frostbite.
In spring, they shed some of their fur (molting) to avoid overheating in summer.
5. Physical protection
Fur also protects the skin from injuries, irritations, and insect bites. In winter, it acts as a barrier against icy wind, scratches from ice or snow, and even frostbite.
It is important not to over-trim or shave a dog's fur before winter, as this could compromise its ability to protect itself from the cold. In addition, some breeds have specific care needs (such as regular brushing to prevent the undercoat from tangling).
Do you have a specific dog in mind or questions about its care in winter? Our hair supplement, a natural product for dogs and cats, "Coat and Paw Pads" is a preventive and maintenance treatment. The formula is composed of dog vitamins B5 and B6, minerals, marine collagen, zinc, plants (burdock), and brewer's yeast. Over 2 months, it allows your pet to regain a healthy, shiny, and good-looking coat (hair).
