Best Winter Dog Care Tips: Keep Your Dog Safe, Warm, and Healthy This Winter

Winter brings unique challenges that can affect your dog’s comfort, mobility, and overall wellbeing. Cold temperatures, icy pavements, shorter days, and dry indoor air all require thoughtful adjustments. This complete guide to winter dog care gives you practical, actionable steps to keep your dog warm, safe, and happy throughout the season.

1. Understanding Your Dog’s Winter Needs

Different dogs handle winter temperatures differently. Breeds like Huskies, Malamutes, and Newfoundlands thrive in cold climates thanks to their thick double coats. In contrast, short-haired or fine-coated dogs such as Greyhounds, Whippets, Staffies, and Chihuahuas are far more sensitive to low temperatures. Puppies, senior dogs, underweight dogs, and dogs with health conditions also require extra protection.

Behavioural changes are important winter signals. Many dogs become reluctant to go outside, walk more slowly, or lift their paws to avoid cold ground. Shivering, curling up tightly, or seeking warm spots may also indicate discomfort. Observing these signs helps you adjust walks, clothing, and indoor routines as needed.

Actionable Tips

• Start reducing outdoor time when temperatures drop below 7°C for small or short-haired breeds.

• Below 0°C, limit walks for most dogs and prioritise indoor enrichment.

• Below –5°C, keep outdoor time extremely short and monitor for cold stress every few minutes.

2. Clothing and Accessories for Cold Weather

Clothing plays a crucial role in effective winter dog care. High-quality coats, sweaters, and booties can make a huge difference for dogs who struggle in cold weather. A well-fitted coat helps maintain body heat while allowing full mobility. Materials like fleece, wool, or insulated softshell fabrics work best.

Dog boots offer essential paw protection from ice, grit, rock salt, and frozen ground. Because many dogs initially dislike wearing them, introduce them gradually—start indoors for a few minutes at a time until your dog becomes comfortable. Reflective gear is also vital during darker mornings and evenings to ensure visibility and safety.

Actionable Tips

• Choose coats that cover the chest and belly for maximum insulation.

• Add reflective strips or a reflective harness for walks after 3pm.

• Introduce boots indoors with treats to build a positive association.

3. Paw Care Essentials

Winter is harsh on paws. Cold weather dries paw pads, while grit and salt can cause painful cracks or chemical burns. Regular inspection and cleaning are key components of responsible winter dog care.

After each walk, rinse your dog’s paws with lukewarm water to remove salt, grit, and chemicals. Always dry thoroughly to prevent irritation.

Moisturising paw pads with a dog-safe balm (e.g., Musher’s Secret or coconut oil) helps create a protective barrier.

Long fur between the pads should be trimmed—this prevents the formation of painful ice balls. Pet-safe de-icers or simple sand can replace harsh salts in your garden or driveway.

Actionable Tips

• Rinse paws after every walk.

• Apply balm once or twice a day.

• Trim fur between pads weekly to prevent ice build-up.

4. Adjusting Diet and Hydration

Cold weather can increase your dog’s calorie requirements, especially for active outdoor dogs. Muscles burn more energy to maintain body heat.

Speak with your vet to evaluate whether your dog needs a 5–15% calorie increase during winter. Diets rich in quality protein and healthy fats support metabolism, coat health, and energy levels.

Hydration is also vital during winter. Many dogs drink less when it’s cold, which increases the risk of dehydration. Offering warm water, adding bone broth, or incorporating wet food into meals encourages adequate hydration. If the water bowl is outside, ensure it stays ice-free.

Actionable Tips

• Offer warm bone broth daily for hydration and nutrients.

• Use a heated water bowl outdoors to prevent freezing.

• Adjust calories based on activity level and temperature.

5. Creating a Warm Indoor Environment

A comfortable indoor setup is one of the most important aspects of winter dog care. Cold floors, drafts, and dry air can affect your dog’s comfort and joint health. Provide a thick, insulated bed placed away from doors and windows. Orthopaedic beds are ideal for senior dogs, helping alleviate stiffness.

Indoor enrichment is crucial during winter, especially if walks become shorter. Puzzle feeders, scent games, training sessions, and controlled play can keep your dog mentally and physically satisfied. A cosy den—such as a covered bed or crate—also helps your dog retain heat and feel secure.

Actionable Tips

• Elevate your dog’s bed off cold tiled floors.

• Use a humidifier to prevent dry skin and static build-up.

• Create a daily indoor enrichment routine (10–20 minutes).

6. Safe Outdoor Activities

Your dog still needs exercise, but winter conditions require careful planning. Short, frequent walks are better than long ones in very cold weather.

Avoid icy surfaces that may cause slips or injuries. Snow can reduce scent trails, so dogs are more likely to become lost—keeping your dog on a lead is essential.

Winter playtime can still be enjoyable. Many dogs love running, digging, or sniffing in the snow, but always monitor for cold stress. If your dog lifts their paws repeatedly, slows down, or stops willingly, it’s time to go inside immediately.

Actionable Tips

• Walk in sheltered routes (parks with trees, less wind).

• Keep sessions short: 10–20 minutes depending on temperature.

• Always check paws and belly after snowy or icy walks.

7. Health and Safety Precautions

Some health conditions worsen in winter. Arthritis, breathing difficulties, and heart conditions may flare up due to cold air and reduced activity. A winter health check with your vet helps you stay ahead of potential issues.

Frostbite and hypothermia are rare but serious risks. Frostbite affects ears, paws, and the tail. Hypothermia causes lethargy, stiff muscles, weak pulse, and pale gums. Immediate warming and rapid veterinary care are essential in both cases.

Another winter danger is antifreeze (ethylene glycol), which is deadly even in tiny amounts. Its sweet taste attracts dogs, so store it safely and clean spills immediately.

Actionable Tips

• Book a vet check-up for senior dogs at the start of winter.

• Avoid walking near roads treated with heavy chemical de-icers.

• Learn frostbite and hypothermia first-aid basics.

8. Special Considerations for Puppies and Senior Dogs

Puppies and seniors are the most vulnerable during cold months. Puppies lose heat quickly and may refuse to toilet outdoors in low temperatures. Short, frequent potty trips, warm clothing, and high-value treats can help build confidence.

Senior dogs often experience stiffness, joint inflammation, or reduced circulation in cold weather. Orthopaedic beds, joint supplements (after vet approval), warm layers, and gentle daily movement make winter more comfortable for them.

Actionable Tips for Puppies

• Keep outdoor time limited to 5–10 minutes in low temperatures.

• Use a warm coat below 7–8°C.

• Reinforce toileting outdoors with high-value rewards.

Actionable Tips for Senior Dogs

• Add omega-3 fatty acids to support joints (vet-approved doses).

• Warm up with gentle indoor stretches before walks.

• Offer multiple warm sleeping spots around the home.

Stay Connected and Get Help When You Need It

You're not alone on this journey. Join our growing community of passionate dog lovers and experts:

• Join Our New Facebook Group: Dog Behaviour & Training Support – Share your successes, ask questions, and learn from others.

• Follow us on Instagram 👉 @mdlhappyanimals1 for daily dog training tips and behind-the-scenes moments.

• Join the conversation on X! 👉 @DogMDL – Stay updated with fast training advice and expert insights.

Contact me today to get started!

If you're looking for expert advice on dog behavior issues, you're in the right place!

I offer personalized support, both in-person and online, to help your furry friend thrive.

---