How to care for your dog in winter

As the nights draw in and the temperatures tumble, winter brings a unique kind of magic. But while we’re wrapping up in scarves and woolly hats, it’s vital to remember that our four-legged friends need a little extra TLC during the colder months too.

From staying safe on frosty morning strolls to creating the ultimate snuggly sanctuary at home, here is our guide to navigating winter with your faithful hound.

This guide is part of our Canine Care collection, which features helpful advice on subjects ranging from how to toilet train your dog to becoming a foster carer, in partnership with our friends at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.  

How cold is too cold for a dog?

One of the most common questions we hear is: how cold is too cold for a dog? While many dogs love frolicking in the snow, others would much rather stay curled up by the radiator. 

Generally, temperatures above 7°C are fine for most dogs. When the mercury drops below 0°C, you should start taking precautions. However, at -5°C, the cold can become dangerous for almost all breeds, and walks should be kept very short. 

Which breeds feel the cold the most? 

Not all dogs are built the same! 

• Cold-sensitive breeds: Small dogs, or those with fine fur and low body fat—like Greyhounds, Whippets, and Chihuahuas—feel the chill much faster. You should definitely consider a high-quality dog coat for these breeds to act as a barrier against the wet and cold
• Winter warriors: Breeds with thick double coats, such as Huskies, Malamutes, and Newfoundlands, are naturally insulated and often thrive in snowy conditions
• Senior dogs: Older pooches often struggle to regulate their body temperature and may have stiff joints that are aggravated by the cold. It’s more important than ever to keep them warm and dry

Staying safe on winter walkies

Nothing is more appealing to our four-legged friend than a walk around the local park, a turn on the beach or a stroll in the countryside. This applies in winter as much as at any other time of year, but to make things more comfortable for them, consider a coat – especially if they have fine or thin fur, like whippets or greyhounds. It will act as a barrier against the worst of the wet and cold while the doggo is enjoying some exercise.

Be safe, be seen

Visibility is key on murky days or when walking on a winter’s evening, so a high-vis coat or reflective lead and collar might be a useful investment to ensure your pup is seen and safe. And don't forget about yourself, the correct dog-walking boots can make a world of difference to your walk.

While out and about, be aware of your surroundings and don’t let your dog near any frozen bodies of water, such as lakes and ponds. It’s impossible to tell how thin the ice is and it really isn’t worth the risk of your cherished pet falling through to the freezing water. Snowy conditions pose another hazard to dogs in winter – we’d recommend keeping the pooch on their lead as it’s hard to tell what’s underneath that layer of beautiful white powder.   

When you return home from your outdoor adventure, be sure to thoroughly dry your dog off to prevent them from getting a chill. Also, check for any road debris such as grit and salt that might have got caught between their toes and remove it.

Snow and ice hazards

While a snowy landscape looks beautiful, it can hide dangers. We’d recommend keeping your pooch on their lead in deep snow, as you never know what sharp objects or drops might be lurking beneath the white powder. 

Important: Never let your dog walk on frozen bodies of water, such as lakes or ponds. It is impossible to tell how thin the ice is, and it simply isn't worth the risk of your cherished pet falling through. 

How to tell if your dog is cold

Keep a close eye on your dog while you are out. If you notice them shivering, whining, slowing down, or lifting their paws off the ground, they are likely too cold. In severe cases, this can lead to hypothermia. If you spot these signs, head home immediately and warm them up gently. 

Post-walk care

When you return from your outdoor adventure, thoroughly dry your dog off to prevent them from getting a chill. Crucially, check their paws! Road grit and salt can be very irritating to doggy pads. Wipe their paws down with warm water to remove any debris and dry them well—don't forget in between the toes!

Having fun indoors

When the weather is grim, there’s something very satisfying about staying warm and cosy indoors; we’re sure your furry friend would agree! If they don’t fancy heading out into the cold too often, then make their indoor environment as enriching and fun as possible.

Toys, treats and games will make those darker days fly by. Try hiding one of their favourite toys and encourage them to sniff it out in a game of hide and seek. You can’t go wrong with a chew toy or why not provide a snuffle mat with treats tucked away within it, which they have to forage for?

After all that excitement, a well-earned rest is in order. A cosy bed in a quiet spot away from any draughts is just the ticket for lazy afternoons. Fido can snuggle up and nap to his heart’s content. Let sleeping dogs lie while you enjoy a hot chocolate curled up on the sofa.

Looking after your senior dog in winter

While keeping your older pooch active through walks and outside play is good for their circulation and general fitness, avoid slippery surfaces such as icy pavements when out and about. And it’s more important than ever to keep them dry and warm – towel at the ready when you get home.   

It’s also worth adding a cosy blanket to their bed to provide that extra layer of warmth when they fancy a snooze. Think of it in the same way as switching to a thicker winter duvet – it’s blissful!

Expert advice from our friends

With certain seasonal adjustments, there’s no reason why winter can’t be as enjoyable as the summer for your faithful friend. This guide provides some pointers on looking after your dog in winter and Battersea and Arden Grange have some handy tips on winter dog care.

Laura Bates, veterinary surgeon at Battersea, said: “As darker evenings and colder weather starts creeping in, it’s important that we do what we can for our pets to protect them against the chill this winter. Following Battersea’s useful tips, owners can ensure their dogs and cats are safe and happy during the colder months, from creating cosy hiding places with plenty of blankets for your pet to cuddle up with to checking their paws for snow, salt or grit. Most importantly, if your pet seems unwell as a result of the colder weather, seek veterinary advice.”

"A strong immune system is essential year-round, but particularly during winter when dogs may be exposed to different environments and potentially more stress from travel. Nutrition is the foundation of immune health. Choose foods that include natural antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support cellular health and immune function. Ingredients such as quality proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and natural supplements work together to help your dog's body maintain its natural defences. When your dog is well-nourished, they're better equipped to adapt to new experiences and stay healthy throughout your winter getaway. At Arden Grange, we've spent 30 years formulating science-backed recipes that support dogs' natural immunity and overall wellbeing through quality natural nutrition with no compromise on ingredients." - Arden Grange

Wonderful winter cottages

If the idea of a dog-friendly winter break appeals, then we have plenty of fabulous cottages to choose from – cosy interiors, enclosed gardens, and winter walks from the doorstep make for the perfect retreat this time of year.

Paw through our full range by clicking the button below and ensure you have happy dogs in winter.