A Puppy's First Winter: 5 Scientifically Based Facts You Didn't Know
Did you know that puppies behave completely differently in the cold than adult dogs?
As the winter season approaches, many puppy owners are unaware that their little friends face unique challenges that adult dogs do not. Scientific research is revealing surprising facts about the peculiarities of puppy thermoregulation.
1. Puppies cannot effectively regulate their body temperature until they are 4 weeks old
Veterinary research shows that newborn puppies lack a fully developed thermoregulatory system. Their body temperature can drop to 35°C (normally 38-39°C), which can put them at risk of hypothermia. This means that even moderate cold can be dangerous.
Scientific data: According to research from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), puppies under 4 weeks of age cannot shiver, the primary body warming mechanism used by adult dogs.
2. Puppies need up to 25% more calories in winter
Research published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition reveals that growing puppies use significantly more energy during the cold season. Their bodies are working twice as hard: growing AND fighting the cold.
Why is this important? Poor nutrition in winter can:
- Slow down growth and development
- Weaken immunity
- Cause loss of muscle mass
- To worsen the quality of the fur
3. Puppies' paws are especially sensitive to the cold
Veterinary dermatologists confirm that puppies' foot pads are much thinner than adult dogs'. Temperatures below -7°C can cause frostbite in just 5-10 minutes.
Fun fact: Puppies have more nerve endings in their paws than adult dogs, so they feel the cold more intensely.
4. Immunity is 40% weaker in winter
Veterinary immunology studies show that a puppy's immune system is not fully developed until about 6 months of age. During the winter months, when the body is fighting the cold, immunity weakens even further.
Statistics: According to veterinary clinics, 60% of respiratory infections in puppies occur during the cold season.
5. Proper nutrition can increase heat production by up to 30%
Recent nutritional studies show that a balance of high-quality protein and fat can significantly improve puppies' ability to maintain body temperature. Royal Canin Research has found that specially balanced puppy foods with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids improve thermoregulation efficiency.
How to take care of a puppy in winter?
Nutrition recommendations:
- Choose special puppy food adapted to their breed size
- Increase portions by 15-25% in winter (consult your veterinarian)
- Ensure that the food is rich in protein (at least 28-30%)
- Choose foods with DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports brain development
Practical tips:
- Shorten your walks when the temperature drops below -5°C.
- Use puppy jackets on very cold days
- Wash your feet with warm water after a walk.
- Provide a warm, draft-free sleeping area
Why are Royal Canin products ideal for puppies in winter?
Royal Canin puppy food is formulated based on scientific research and taking into account the specific needs of growing dogs:
- Optimized energy levels - helps maintain body temperature and growth
- Antioxidant complex - strengthens the immune system
- EPA/DHA - supports nervous system and brain development
- Prebiotics - supports digestive health
- Adapted pellet shape - easier to chew and digest
Conclusion
A puppy's first winter is a critical period for their development. Research clearly shows that proper nutrition and care during the cold season can have a lasting impact on a dog's health for life. Investing in quality nutrition now is an investment in your pet's health in the future.
Do you have any questions about your puppy's winter nutrition? Contact us - we'll be happy to advise you!