Keeping Your Dog Safe and Happy in Winter – A Practical Guide

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s time to adapt your dog’s routine to help them stay warm, healthy, and happy. Whether you’ve got a thick-coated husky who can’t get enough of the cold or a short-haired dachshund who doesn’t enjoy much winter, chilly weather brings its own set of challenges for dog owners. Here’s a practical guide packed with some tips to keep your furry friend comfy all winter long!

1. Keep Them Warm: The Right Gear for Winter Walks

Just like us, dogs feel the cold - and some breeds are more sensitive than others. Short-haired pups, small breeds, and senior dogs are especially vulnerable. So, here’s a list of essentials to make winter walks a breeze (and keep your buddy warm and stylish):

• Winter Coats & Raincoats: Investing in a quality coat is key. A great pick? The Cloud7 Raincoat, designed to be both waterproof and cozy. Plus, it adds a little flair to your dog’s winter wardrobe!

• Paw Protection: Ice, snow, and road salt can wreak havoc on paw pads. A good paw balm, like the organic Paw Care Set from Lila Loves It, helps protect and soothe them. In snowy areas, consider winter booties for extra protection (and Instagram-worthy photos).

• Post-Walk Routine: After your walk, always wipe down your dog’s paws to remove salt or debris, and dry off any wet fur preferably with a towell.  Got dry paws? A quick dab of nourishing balm works wonders.

2. Adjust Their Exercise Routine

Keeping your dog active during winter is important, but with icy streets and bone-chilling winds, you might need to tweak your usual routine:

• Shorter Walks, More Often: When it’s freezing outside, go for several short walks rather than one long outing.

• Indoor Fun: Rainy or extra-cold days? Bring the fun inside! Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing games, or hide-and-seek are great ways to keep your dog entertained. Need some inspiration? Check out our interactive toys in the shop - like the croissant-shaped toy or the mushroom sniffing play set. 

Keep an eye on your dog during walks: if they’re shivering, lifting their paws, or pulling towards home, it’s probably time to head back inside.

3. Feed Them Right

Winter weather can change your dog’s nutritional needs, so stay mindful of their diet:

• Monitor Their Weight: Some dogs burn more calories staying warm, while others may slow down and gain a bit. Adjust their portions as needed to keep them in tip-top shape.

• Stay Hydrated: Cold weather can still lead to dehydration, especially if your dog’s eating more dry food. Make sure they always have fresh water available. If they’re not keen on drinking, try switching to wet food for added moisture.

4. Create a Cozy Home Environment

Winter isn’t just about outdoor adventures—your pup needs a warm, snug home too!

• Warm Bedding: Ensure they have a comfy bed in a draft-free area. Want to upgrade their snooze game? The extremely comfortable Onda Blanket from MiaCara, available at OhMyDog&Co, is perfect for layering over their bed or keeping them cozy on the couch.

• Keep Them Dry: Wet fur equals a chilly dog! Always dry them off well after a winter walk. The Anti-Bacterial Dog Towel from Berty made from bamboo materials is ideal for quickly drying your pup.

• Limit Bathing: Frequent baths can dry out their skin. During winter, stick to fewer baths and use a moisturizing shampoo, like the gentle and organic Dog Shampoo from NoCat Studio, when necessary. The  Hyg Fur Fix Fragrance made with essential oils is an ideal routine to keep their fur shiny and always smelling great.

5. Be Mindful of Winter Hazards

Winter brings its own set of risks, so it’s important to stay alert:

• Antifreeze Alert: Antifreeze is highly toxic but can be tempting to dogs due to its sweet taste. Keep it out of reach and clean up any spills immediately.

• Frozen Water Dangers: Avoid letting your dog play on frozen ponds or lakes—the ice might not be strong enough to support them.

• Visibility Counts: With shorter days, walks often happen in low light. Equip your dog with reflective gear or an LED safety light from Orbiloc to make sure they stay visible.

6. Look After Their Skin and Fur

Cold weather can leave your dog’s coat dull and their skin dry, so keep up with their grooming routine:

• Brush, Brush, Brush: Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils, keeping their coat healthy and insulating. The Hyg Fur Fix fragrance vet-approved made with essential-oils is an ideal routine to keep their fur shiny and smelling amazing.

• Combat Dryness: If their skin’s feeling dry, the Paw Care Set from Lila Loves It can help with soothing balms for irritated spots. And don’t forget treats like the Tiny Sprats Treats from Eli, loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy, shiny coat!

7. Pay Special Attention to Senior Dogs

Older dogs tend to feel the cold more and may suffer from conditions like arthritis, which can worsen in winter:

• Extra Warmth: Provide additional bedding or even a heated mat for extra comfort. Once again, the Onda Blanket from MiaCara comes in handy for keeping your senior dog snug.

• Gentle Exercise: Stick to low-impact activities that keep them moving without causing strain.

• Consult Your Vet: Ask your vet about joint supplements or treatments to ease discomfort during the colder months.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Season Together

Winter is a magical time to bond with your dog, whether you’re exploring frosty landscapes or snuggling up at home. With a little preparation, you can keep your furry friend warm, safe, and happy all season long.

Looking for winter essentials? Give a look at our Winter Collection, which includes among others the Cloud7 Raincoat, Onda Blanket from MiaCara, and Paw Care Set from Lila Loves It, available online or at our store in Marvila (Lisbon). Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram (@ohmydogandco) for more tips, product updates, and dog-friendly winter activity ideas. Stay warm!