As the leaves turn golden and the frosty mornings set in, dog owners across the UK prepare for the colder months ahead. While autumn and winter bring crisp countryside walks, festive cheer, and cosy evenings, they also present unique challenges for our dogs. Shorter days, icy pavements, and chilly winds can all impact a dog’s comfort, safety, and health.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most important winter dog care tips, covering everything from dog walking in winter to feeding, grooming, and breed-specific advice.
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Not all dogs are naturally equipped for the cold. While breeds such as Huskies and Malamutes thrive in freezing conditions thanks to their dense double coats, many others—like Greyhounds, Whippets, Dachshunds, and smaller toy breeds—struggle to retain body heat.
Coats & jumpers: A well-fitted dog coat or jumper is a must for short-haired or small breeds when venturing outdoors. Look for waterproof options for wet, slushy days, and insulated designs for particularly chilly mornings.
Coverage matters: Ensure the coat covers your dog’s chest and belly, where heat loss is greatest.
Avoid overheating: Don’t keep coats on indoors, as overheating can be just as dangerous as the cold.
UK roads and pavements are often gritted with salt during icy spells, which can irritate or even burn a dog’s paw pads. Combine this with frozen ground and hidden shards of ice, and paw protection becomes essential.
Boots: Dog boots may look unusual but provide excellent protection from both salt and sharp ice.
Cleaning routine: If your dog isn’t keen on wearing booties, make it a habit to wipe their paws after every walk to remove salt, grit, and dirt.
Paw balm: Applying a protective paw balm before walks can help prevent dryness and cracking.
Exercise remains vital even as temperatures drop. However, dog walking in winter requires some extra thought.
Shorter, more frequent walks: Instead of one long walk, split exercise into two or three shorter outings to limit exposure to the cold.
Timing matters: Aim for late morning or early afternoon walks, when temperatures are milder and visibility is better.
Visibility gear: With darker mornings and evenings, invest in reflective leads, collars, or LED clip-on lights so both you and your dog are easily spotted by drivers and cyclists.
Consider the breed:
When storms, snow, or freezing rain make walks unpleasant, keep your dog entertained indoors:
Dogs often burn more calories trying to stay warm in winter, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. However, balance is key—overfeeding can lead to unhealthy weight gain, particularly for less active indoor dogs.
Outdoor working dogs (e.g. farm Collies, Spaniels) may require slightly more food during the winter.
Indoor pets may need the same or even fewer calories if exercise decreases.
Hydration is just as important in winter as summer—always ensure fresh water is available, as central heating can be dehydrating.
Consult your vet before making significant dietary changes.
It’s tempting to skip grooming when the weather is miserable, but regular coat care is essential in winter.
Brushing: Keeps coats free of mats, which can trap moisture and reduce insulation.
Bathing: Wash only when necessary and dry thoroughly, as damp fur increases the risk of chills.
Double-coated breeds: Never shave down a double coat (e.g. German Shepherds, Huskies). Their undercoat helps regulate temperature.
Ears & paws: Check for ice build-up in long fur around ears, tails, and feet.
The festive period introduces additional hazards.
Decorations: Tinsel, fairy lights, and baubles can be tempting but dangerous if chewed or swallowed.
Festive foods: Chocolate, raisins (including mince pies and Christmas pudding), onions, and alcohol are all toxic to dogs.
Open flames: Keep candles and fireplaces out of reach of wagging tails.
Cold weather can worsen conditions such as arthritis. Senior dogs, in particular, may need extra support.
Veterinary check-up: A winter health check helps identify potential issues before they become serious.
Joint care: Supplements and orthopaedic dog beds can help keep older dogs comfortable.
Vaccinations & parasite prevention: Don’t assume fleas, ticks, and worms disappear in winter—they can still be active in milder UK climates.
A warm, quiet resting spot is essential for your dog’s wellbeing:
Caring for your dog through the colder months doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about preparation, awareness, and adapting routines. With these winter dog care tips, you’ll be ready to protect your pup’s health, safety, and happiness right through until spring.
Every dog is different: what suits a hardy Labrador bounding through snowdrifts may not suit a delicate Italian Greyhound. By tailoring your approach to your dog’s breed, age, and lifestyle, you’ll ensure they stay warm, well-fed, and content through the darkest days of the year.
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