As the colder months approach, it's important to keep your dog comfortable and safe in winter weather. From keeping them warm during walks to finding ways to stay active indoors, here are seven tips to prepare your dog for winter.
1. Dress Your Dog for the Cold
Winter clothing can help keep your dog warm and dry during chilly or wet walks. Whether your dog needs extra warmth depends on several factors:
- Size: Smaller dogs may have more difficulty retaining body heat.
- Coat type: Short-haired dogs may need added warmth. A thick coat does not make a dog immune to cold weather.
- Individual needs and conditions: Age, health, wind, rain and time outdoors all matter. There is no single temperature that is safe for every dog.
Clothing should fit comfortably and allow normal movement and toileting. Remove it if it becomes wet or causes distress. Watch for shivering, reluctance to walk or other signs that your dog needs to come inside.
2. Plan for Indoor Activities
Winter weather often means spending more time indoors. Keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated with:
- Interactive toys and food puzzles
- Size-appropriate chews and treats
- Indoor games like hide and seek
Supervise toys, puzzles and chews, and remove damaged items or pieces that could be swallowed. Choose activities suited to your dog's abilities, with room to move safely.
3. Make the Most of Outdoor Time
When conditions allow, walks and games can help your dog stay active. Adapt the length and intensity to the weather and your dog's comfort rather than trying to fit intense exercise into a short outing.
Afterwards, dry your dog, especially their paws. Check paw pads and between toes for trapped snow, grit or irritation.
4. Keep Up with Grooming
Maintaining your dog's grooming routine is important in winter. Keep their coat free from tangles and mats, which can cause discomfort. Check the fur between their paw pads for debris and trapped moisture.
Use grooming tools suited to your dog's coat. Ask a groomer about appropriate trimming rather than assuming every dog needs a shorter coat before winter. After grooming, make sure your dog stays warm and dry.
5. Discuss Winter Diet Needs with Your Vet
Your dog's activity level may change during winter. Monitor their weight and body condition, and consult your vet about diet questions or any proposed changes to food portions. Do not assume cold weather alone means your dog needs more or less food.
6. Create a Cozy Space
Provide a warm, dry indoor place to rest, away from drafts. Comfortable bedding and dry blankets can help your dog settle after outdoor activity. Outdoor shelter should not replace access to indoor warmth and rest during cold weather.
7. Don't Forget Senior Dogs
Senior dogs may need extra help staying comfortable and moving safely. Provide supportive bedding, secure footing and gentle activity suited to their abilities. Any clothing should fit without restricting movement.
If your dog seems stiff, painful or less willing to move, consult your vet about joint pain and suitable care. Ask your vet before changing their diet or adding supplements.