Hot Months
Your dog must always have access to water. Lightweight water bowls that can easily be knocked over or bumped into should be left in the house. Instead, dig a hole in the ground for a bucket, and fill it with water and ice cubes. The ground will keep the water cool. Make available shade for your dog. The rays of the sun can overwhelm your dog. If he can’t escape from the warmth, he may overheat and will not be able to control his body temperature. Dogs can get sunburned, mainly on their nose and ears. A place out of the sun will help prevent sunburn. Remember that pavement and sand get very hot, move him to an area with cooler flooring, such as the grass.
Cold Months
Your dog needs an escape from the cold winter winds. An insulated dog house offers protection from the outside elements. Warming lamps can also be a great asset. Similar to an incubator for baby chicks, these warming lamps can help keep your dog’s outdoor kennel warm, just make sure it doesn’t get too hot for him. Keep your dog away from any deicer or rock salt in the winter months. These can be very irritating to your dog’s paws. If snow gathers high enough that it is too hard for him to walk around, make sure to shovel a walk way for him to go potty and play.
Access
Your dog needs full access to food and water and a place to relieve himself at all times. Doggie doors can be beneficial if your dog is trained to go outside to do his business and come back in.
