When winter rolls in, it’s not just us humans who feel the chill, our furry mates do also feel it. Whether you’re living in the brisk highlands of Victoria or the cool coastlines of Tassie, keeping your dog comfy and safe during winter is a must. From chilly paws to shorter daylight hours, the colder months bring unique challenges for dogs of all sizes.
As a long-time dog owner and breeder in Queensland, I’ve learned a fair few tricks over the years to keep my pups happy during winter. Here’s a down-to-earth guide to help you do the same.
Note: This article isn’t about any specific breed; every dog, no matter their size, type, or background, deserves love and proper care.
1. Keep Your Dog Warm, But Don’t Overdo It
Let’s start with the obvious: dogs feel the cold, especially short-haired breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, or smaller fellas like Chihuahuas. Even some of the fluffier ones, like Cavoodles or Labradoodles, can feel the chill if they’re clipped too short.
Tips to keep them warm:
- Dog coats are your best mate. Especially for walks. Pick one that’s waterproof if you live somewhere rainy like Melbourne.
- Let their fur grow out a bit. Avoid shaving your dog too short during winter.
- Blankets and bedding: Layer their bedding with a warm blanket. If it’s freezing where you live, consider a self-warming pad or a safe heated pet mat.
2. Indoor Comfort is Key
If your dog usually hangs out outside, winter might be the time to let them crash indoors a bit more.
- Bring them inside overnight or set up a windproof kennel with plenty of bedding.
- No tiled floors if you can help it, chuck down a rug or mat to keep their sleeping area cosy.
- Keep them dry. If they get wet during walks, towel them off straight away. Wet fur is a fast track to the shivers.
Pro tip: A doggy dressing gown (yes, they exist) can be handy for after-bath warmth or post-walk drying.
3. Keep Moving, Even If It’s Cold
It’s tempting to skip walks when it’s cold or raining, but dogs still need their exercise and mental stimulation.
- Shorter, more frequent walks are better than long cold slogs.
- Indoor games: Fetch in the hallway, hide-and-seek with treats, or puzzle toys to keep their brain ticking.
- Daylight matters: Try walking during the warmer part of the day, like late morning or early arvo.
4. Watch Their Diet
Just like humans, dogs might burn more calories in winter trying to stay warm; especially working dogs or high-energy breeds.
- Monitor their weight. If your dog’s more of a couch potato in winter, don’t overfeed.
- Warm up their meals. I sometimes warm their wet food slightly (never too hot) or add a bit of bone broth.
- Hydration still matters. Dogs can get dehydrated in winter too. Make sure their water bowl isn’t near a draft or frozen if you’re in a frosty region.
5. Health Check: Stay On Top of Seasonal Issues
Cold weather can bring on stiff joints, skin issues, and other health concerns.
- Older dogs or those with arthritis may need joint supplements or meds from your vet.
- Paw care: Cold ground can dry out paw pads. Use a paw balm or Vaseline if needed.
- Fleas and ticks don’t hibernate. Keep up with your usual preventatives—even in winter.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Weather Warnings
If there’s frost, hail, or a storm forecast, keep your dog inside. Aussie winters might not be as harsh as overseas, but we still get some wild ones.
Final Thoughts:
Taking care of your dog in winter doesn’t have to be a hassle. It’s all about being a bit more mindful. Give them warmth, some fun, and a safe place to snuggle, and they’ll keep wagging right through the chilly season.
Whether you’ve got a chunky Bulldog in Brisbane, a Cavoodle in Sydney, or a sprightly Kelpie in Canberra, a bit of extra TLC during winter goes a long way.
Quick Checklist
- Warm bedding & coat
- Short, fun walks
- Monitor diet & hydration
- Keep up flea/tick prevention
- Watch out for signs of stiffness or cold stress
Stay warm, and give your dog a scratch behind the ears from me. They’ve earned it.