Winter brings cold winds, icy paths, and shorter days that can all make life a little tougher for dogs. Preparing properly keeps your dog comfortable, safe, mentally stimulated, and protected from seasonal risks, giving them a secure and enjoyable winter routine.
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Cold-Weather Gear Fit – Check that jumpers and coats fit snugly without restricting movement, fastening comfortably around the chest and belly. Choose insulated materials that repel moisture.
Safe Winter Walks – Shorten outings during freezing temperatures and choose well-lit, familiar routes to reduce risks linked to darkness and ice. Keep your dog on lead near roads and avoid deep snow.
Ice and Grit Management – Salt, grit and icy pavements can irritate paws and cause small cuts, so wipe feet after every walk and rinse if surfaces were heavily treated. Check between toes for compacted ice and trim excess fur.
Warm Indoor Spaces – Create a draught-free rest area with layered bedding that retains warmth without overheating. Move beds off cold floors and away from external doors where temperature drops sharply
Skin and Coat Protection – Cold air dries skin, so maintain regular brushing to distribute oils and remove debris. Avoid over-bathing, which strips natural barriers, and choose gentle, moisturising shampoos.
Hydration Maintenance – Dogs often drink less in winter, so refresh water frequently and consider slightly warming it to encourage hydration. Indoor heating increases evaporation and dryness, making steady fluid intake vital.
Indoor Enrichment Boost – Compensate for shorter outdoor sessions with interactive toys, scent games and low-impact training. Providing structured mental stimulation curbs boredom, preserves behaviour standards and positively channels energy when long walks are not possible.
Joint-Friendly Routines – Cold weather heightens stiffness in older or large-breed dogs, making gentle warm-ups essential before walks. Slow pacing, soft bedding and optional joint supplements recommended by a vet can help reduce discomfort.
Dietary Adjustments – Some dogs expend more energy staying warm, while indoor-only routines may reduce calorie needs. Monitor body condition weekly and make small, intentional changes rather than large jumps. Balanced winter feeding prevents weight gain.
Holiday Hazards Awareness – Festive foods, decorations and fragranced candles can introduce risks during winter months. Keep toxic items out of reach, ensure guests handle treats responsibly and supervise curious dogs during gatherings.
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Summary of this article
Get your dog into cold-weather gear, stay indoors if possible, manage ice well and ensure your walks are safe, continue to protect their skin and coat, and ask Max if you need more advice at all.
From the experts – When temperatures plummet, observe subtle cues like slower movement, paw lifting or unusual restlessness, which may indicate cold-related discomfort. If your dog hates the cold, schedule multiple micro-walks instead of long outings to minimise strain. Use warm-up games indoors before heading outside to make transitions smoother and keep muscles supple.
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