Essential Winter Care Tips to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

Dog running in the snow.

Winter brings cold temperatures, shorter days, and often harsh weather conditions that can affect your dog's health and comfort. Dogs, like people, need extra care during the colder months to stay safe and happy. Whether your dog spends a lot of time outdoors or mostly stays inside, understanding how to protect them from winter challenges is key. This guide offers practical tips to help you provide the best winter care for your furry friend.

Keep Your Dog Warm and Comfortable

Cold weather can be tough on dogs, especially those with short fur, small size, or health issues. To keep your dog warm:

• Use dog sweaters or coats: For short-haired or small dogs, a well-fitting sweater or coat can add an extra layer of warmth during walks or outdoor play.

• Limit outdoor time: On very cold days, shorten walks and play sessions outside to prevent hypothermia or frostbite.

• Create a warm indoor space: Inside your home, provide a soft bed away from drafts and cold floors. Heated pet beds or pads can be helpful for older dogs or those with arthritis.

  
  

Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Winter Hazards

Winter conditions can be harsh on your dog’s paws. Ice, snow, salt, and chemicals used to melt ice can cause irritation, cuts, or dryness. To protect your dog’s paws:

• Check paws regularly: After walks, inspect paws for cracks, redness, or stuck debris like ice balls between toes.

• Use paw balm or wax: Applying a protective balm before going outside can help shield paws from salt and cold.

• Rinse paws after walks: Wash off salt and chemicals with warm water to prevent irritation or ingestion when your dog licks their paws.

• Consider dog boots: For dogs that tolerate them, boots provide excellent protection from cold and rough surfaces.

  
  

Maintain a Healthy Diet and Hydration

Winter can affect your dog’s appetite and hydration needs. Cold weather may increase energy demands, especially for active or outdoor dogs. To support your dog’s health:

• Adjust food portions if needed: Dogs that spend more time outside or are very active may need extra calories to maintain body heat.

• Choose high-quality food: Nutrient-rich diets support immune function and coat health during winter.

• Keep fresh water available: Water bowls can freeze outside, so provide fresh water indoors and check frequently.

• Avoid feeding snow: Eating snow can lower body temperature and sometimes contain harmful substances.

  
  

Grooming and Coat Care in Winter

Your dog’s coat plays a vital role in insulation, but winter also brings challenges for grooming:

• Brush regularly: Removing loose fur helps maintain a healthy coat and prevents matting, which can trap moisture and cold.

• Avoid shaving down to the skin: Keep your dog’s coat at a natural length to provide insulation.

• Dry your dog thoroughly: After outdoor activities, dry your dog’s coat and paws to prevent chills and skin irritation.

• Watch for skin dryness: Cold air and indoor heating can dry out skin. Use vet-approved moisturizers if needed.

  
  

Monitor Your Dog’s Health Closely

Winter can worsen certain health conditions or cause new problems. Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and physical condition:

• Look for signs of cold stress: Shivering, whining, slowing down, or seeking warmth are signs your dog is too cold.

• Be alert for frostbite and hypothermia: Pale or blue skin, weakness, and lethargy require immediate veterinary care.

• Adjust exercise routines: Shorten walks during extreme cold and avoid icy or slippery surfaces to prevent injuries.

  
  

Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation Indoors

Shorter days and cold weather can limit outdoor playtime, but dogs still need exercise and mental engagement:

• Use indoor games and toys: Puzzle feeders, tug toys, and hide-and-seek games keep your dog active and entertained.

• Train new tricks: Winter is a great time to teach commands or tricks that challenge your dog’s mind.

• Schedule regular short walks: Even brief outdoor time helps maintain fitness and relieves boredom.

  
  

Plan for Travel and Emergencies

Winter weather can cause travel delays and emergencies. Be prepared to keep your dog safe:

• Keep an emergency kit: Include food, water, blankets, a first aid kit, and any medications your dog needs.

• Avoid leaving your dog in a cold car: Temperatures can drop quickly, putting your dog at risk.

• Have a plan for power outages: Ensure your dog has a warm place and enough supplies if heating fails.

by A. Piper Burgi

Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, Medium, and Goodreads.