Overview

Winters in Gurgaon bring sharp temperature drops, dry cold winds, and low humidity which increases the risk of respiratory infections, dry skin, joint pain, and reduced hydration. Pet parents in areas such as Sector 57, Golf Course Road, Sohna Road, Sector 45, Galleria Market, Sector 82, DLF Phase 1,2,3,4, Sushant Lok 1, 2, 3, Nirvana Country, Golf Course Extension Road often notice their dogs developing coughing, dandruff, itching, and stiffness during December–February.

1. Respiratory Infections (High Risk in Gurgaon)

Winter pollution is a major driver of respiratory illness. In Gurgaon, periodic smog drifting from Delhi NCR increasing respiratory irritation. This makes dogs more prone to:

– Persistent coughing (especially mornings and nights)
– Reverse sneezing
– Nasal discharge
– Wheezing in brachycephalic breeds like Shih Tzus, Golden Retrievers, Indies, Labradors

When to visit a vet:

– Cough lasts more than 24–48 hours
– Dog struggles to breathe or breathes noisily
– Thick yellow/green nasal discharge
– Fever, fatigue, or loss of appetite

2. Dry Skin, Dandruff & Fungal Flare-Ups

Because of sharp temperature drops, dry cold winds, and low humidity, many dogs in Gurgaon develop:

– White flakes on fur
– Itching around tail base or belly
– Musty odor (yeast)
– Red, irritated patches

High-risk neighbourhoods:

-Sector 57, Golf Course Road, Sohna Road, DLF Phase 1, Sushant Lok 1, Sector 65, Nirvana Country & Gurgaon in general, due to heater usage indoors and reduced grooming frequency

When to visit a vet:

– Redness spreads
– Odor increases
– Dog keeps scratching despite home care

3. Joint Pain & Arthritis (Senior Dogs in Gurgaon)

Cold temperatures worsen joint inflammation. Breeds commonly affected in Gurgaon include Shih Tzus, Golden Retrievers, Indies, Labradors. Watch for:

– Stiffness after waking
– Difficulty climbing stairs
– Limping during morning walks
– Reluctance to jump or run

When to visit a vet:

– Limp persists beyond a day
– Dog yelps when touched
– Mobility suddenly decreases

4. Low Water Intake → UTI Risk

In winter, dogs may often drink less water. This increases urinary issues.

Signs of UTI:

– Frequent urination
– Straining or crying
– Blood in urine
– Excessive licking

When to visit a vet:

– Any sign of blood
– Difficulty urinating

5. Parasite Activity in Winter (Unique to Gurgaon)

Contrary to belief, fleas and ticks remain active in winter in Gurgaon. Specifically:

– Ticks persisting in green belts near Golf Course Road and Aravalli zones. These parasites thrive in residential parks, apartment gardens, and warm indoor environments.

When to visit a vet:

– Multiple ticks found
– Sudden fever
– Pale gums (possible tick fever)

6. Hypothermia in Small Breeds

In Gurgaon, small and short-coated dogs like Pugs, Beagles, Chihuahuas, and Shih Tzus struggle with:

– Shivering
– Curling tightly
– Cold ears and paws

Immediate vet visit required if:

– Shivering continues indoors
– Dog becomes unusually quiet or lethargic

When to Visit a Vet Immediately

Seek urgent care at a Gurgaon clinic if your dog shows:
– Labored breathing
– Severe coughing fits
– Bleeding skin lesions
– Inability to walk
– Continuous vomiting after parasite exposure
– High fever

Practical Home Care Tips

– Use humidifiers to prevent dry skin
– Maintain regular grooming every 2–3 weeks
– Offer lukewarm water to increase hydration
– Avoid over-bathing to protect skin barrier
– Keep senior dogs warm during night hours

Vetic’s Local Advantage in Gurgaon

Pet parents near Golf Course Road, Sohna Road, Dwarka Expressway, Golf Course Extension Road, Sector 45 prefer consulting Vetic during winters due to:
– Rapid diagnosis of respiratory and skin conditions
– Access to blood tests, X-rays, and tick-fever panels
– Vets trained in dermatology and internal medicine
– App-based reminders for winter vaccinations and follow-ups

If your dog in Gurgaon is coughing, itching, or limping this winter, early treatment prevents complications. Book your consultation at the nearest Vetic clinic in Gurgaon.

Common Questions Asked by Pet Parents during Winters in Gurgaon

Q1. Why is my dog coughing more in winter?
Ans: Cold air, pollution, and viral exposure increase respiratory issues. Persistent cough requires a vet exam.

Q2. Does winter cause dandruff or dry skin in dogs?
Ans: Yes. Low humidity and heater usage dry the skin barrier and worsen itching.

Q3. Why is my senior dog limping in winter?
Ans: Cold temperatures worsen arthritis and joint inflammation. Early vet care helps reduce pain.

Q4. Do ticks disappear in winter?
Ans: No. Many Indian cities still have active ticks due to warm pockets in parks and apartments.

Q5. Why is my dog drinking less water in winter?
Ans: Reduced thirst can cause concentrated urine and UTIs. Offer lukewarm water regularly.

Q6. Should I use sweaters for dogs?
Ans: Short-coated and small breeds need sweaters, especially at night.

Q7. When should I take my dog to the vet immediately?
Ans: Breathing difficulty, fever, bleeding skin, severe itching, or inability to walk require urgent care.