How to Care for Your Dog in Winter

Even in parts of Australia where winter is not extreme, seasonal changes can still affect your dog’s comfort, routine and overall wellbeing. Short-haired breeds, puppies, senior dogs and dogs with joint issues may feel the cold more than others, especially when colder mornings, chilly floors, lower activity levels and drier indoor air start to set in.

With a few practical adjustments, you can help your dog stay warm, comfortable and active throughout the colder months. From choosing a warmer sleeping area and supporting hydration to reviewing winter nutrition and indoor enrichment, this guide covers the key things to keep in mind during winter.

Keep Your Dog Warm and Comfortable

Choose a Warm, Comfortable Bed

Dogs do not enjoy sleeping on cold, hard floors, especially during winter. A comfortable bed helps create a warmer resting space and may be particularly useful for older dogs or dogs that seem stiff in colder weather. Raised beds, padded bedding or orthopedic styles can all help improve comfort.

Try to place your dog’s bed in a quiet part of the house, away from cold tiles, cement floors and areas that feel damp or exposed.

Add Blankets or a Sweater if Needed

Short-haired dogs, puppies and senior dogs often need a bit of extra warmth in winter. Soft blankets can make the bed more inviting, while a well-fitted sweater or coat may help on colder mornings, during evening walks or in cooler indoor spaces.

Clothing should fit comfortably without being too loose or restrictive. The goal is to keep your dog warm without affecting movement or comfort.

Pick a Sleeping Area Away from Cold Air

Choose a warm indoor sleeping area away from cold air coming through doors, windows or windy areas. Keeping your dog protected from cold airflow can help maintain comfort, especially for short-haired breeds, puppies and senior dogs.

If your dog usually sleeps outside, in the garage or on a porch, winter may be a good time to review that setup. If possible, move them into a more sheltered indoor area. If outdoor sleeping cannot be avoided, make sure the space is dry, insulated and protected from wind.

Winter Nutrition: Why Lamb Can Be a Practical Choice

Some dogs may use more energy in winter to maintain body temperature, especially if they are lean, short-coated, older or spending time outdoors. This does not mean every dog needs more food, but it can be a good time to review body condition, appetite and whether their current diet is still supporting them well.

Lamb is a nutrient-dense protein source that provides essential amino acids, along with nutrients such as iron, zinc and B vitamins that support muscle maintenance, immune health and normal energy metabolism. According to PetMD, lamb can provide highly digestible protein and useful micronutrients for dogs. Some nutrition resources also describe lamb as a suitable option for dogs that do not do well on more common proteins such as chicken or beef, depending on the individual dog’s needs (Nature’s Logic).

For dogs that already do well on lamb-based food, this type of protein can be a practical and palatable winter option. One example is Black Hawk Original Dry Dog Food Adult Lamb & Rice 20KG, which combines lamb protein with balanced nutrition for everyday feeding. Some Australian formulas such as LifeWise dog food also include lamb as part of their ingredient approach, offering another option for dogs that respond well to this protein source.

Encourage Hydration in Cooler Weather

Many dogs drink a little less during winter, especially when the weather is cooler and they are less active. Fresh water should always be available, and some dogs may drink more readily if you add a little warmth or flavour to their routine.

You can also consider adding pet-safe bone broth to meals or offering it separately in moderation if it suits your dog’s diet. In addition, some dogs may benefit from meals with higher moisture content, such as options available in our wet dog food collection, which can help support overall daily hydration.

Winter Exercise and Outdoor Safety

Choose Shorter Walks When Needed

Exercise is still important in winter, but some dogs are more comfortable with shorter, more frequent walks rather than one long outing in cold or wet conditions. Walking during the warmer part of the day, such as late morning or midday, can make winter exercise more comfortable for both dogs and owners.

On especially cold, rainy or windy days, it is reasonable to shorten outdoor time and make up for it with indoor games and enrichment.

Check Paws After Walks

Cold ground, damp paths and rough surfaces may leave paw pads dry or irritated. After winter walks, check your dog’s paws and gently wipe away dirt, moisture or debris. If your dog has dry or cracked paw pads, a pet-safe balm may help support comfort.

In colder regions or on rough terrain, some dogs may also benefit from booties, although not every dog will enjoy wearing them right away.

Use Reflective Gear in Low Light

Winter days are shorter, and many walks happen in lower light. Reflective leads, collars, harnesses or clip-on lights can help improve visibility and safety during early morning or evening outings.

Support Joints, Skin and Coat During Winter

Cold Weather and Stiff Joints

Older dogs and dogs with mobility issues may seem stiffer in colder weather. A warm sleeping area, sensible exercise and a comfortable resting space can all help support daily comfort. For some dogs, joint supplements may also be worth considering as part of a broader care plan.

The American Kennel Club notes that ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM are commonly used in products designed to support canine joint health.

Nutrition for Skin and Coat Health

Dry winter air can sometimes leave dogs with drier skin, a dull coat or increased itchiness. Omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA may help support skin hydration, coat condition and a healthy inflammatory response.

Research published via PubMed Central suggests that dietary fatty acid balance may influence skin condition and coat quality in dogs. If you would like to better understand how EPA and DHA support pets, you can also read our guide: Omega-3 for Dogs and Cats – Benefits of EPA & DHA.

Some dogs may also benefit from fish oils, balanced complete diets or targeted skin and coat support products, depending on their needs. One option already popular with many pet owners is Natural Animal Solutions Omega Oil 3,6 & 9 for Dogs and Cats.

Do Not Skip Grooming

Regular brushing remains important in winter. Grooming helps distribute natural oils through the coat, reduces matting and gives you the chance to notice dry skin, lumps or other changes early. If your dog needs a bath in winter, make sure they are fully dry before they go outside or settle into a cool area.

Indoor Enrichment and Play in Winter

Mental Stimulation Matters

Dogs often spend less time outdoors during winter, which can lead to boredom if nothing changes indoors. Mental stimulation can help make up for reduced outdoor activity and may also reduce restless or destructive behaviour.

Puzzle feeders, enrichment toys and short training sessions can all help keep your dog engaged. Rotating different dog toys can also help keep indoor play more interesting.

Use Training and Scent Games Indoors

Winter can be a great time to revisit basic training or teach new tricks. Indoor games such as hide-and-seek, treat searches, short obedience sessions or simple agility challenges can all help keep your dog mentally active. For senior dogs or dogs with limited mobility, scent games are often a gentle but rewarding option.

Conclusion

Looking after your dog in winter does not need to be complicated, but a few thoughtful adjustments can make a real difference. A warmer sleeping area, sensible exercise, good hydration, skin and joint support, and the right nutrition can all help your dog stay comfortable through the colder months.

Winter is also a good reminder to slow down and check in with your dog’s daily routine. Sometimes the smallest changes, such as moving the bed away from cold airflow, adding a blanket, reviewing food choices or making indoor play more engaging, can have the biggest effect on comfort and wellbeing.

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