Winter can be harsh on dogs who live in colder climates, especially those not built for cold weather. Just like us, they feel the chill, making it essential to keep them warm and comfortable. Whether your dog has short fur or loves playing in the snow, keeping them cozy is key to their health and happiness. Here are seven practical tips to help your dog stay comfortable through the winter months.

1. Keep Them Indoors and Warm

Keeping your dogs warm indoors is probably the most important thing to make your dog comfortable during winter. Keep their bed away from any cold drafts or windows. Offer extra blankets or a thicker bed for added warmth. 

Some houses are always chilly, and your dog won't complain about being too warm. Also, some dogs like to snuggle up, so make them a warm nook they'll love to curl up in.

2. Dress Them for Outdoor Adventures

When and if it is already that time to venture outdoors, especially during walks or bathroom breaks, one may want to clad a coat of winter gear on their dog. Dog winter coats are outstanding in safeguarding one's canine during outdoor freezing temperatures. 

These coats provide warmth to your pet and shield your dog's core from the cold, especially for breeds with shorter fur or more sensitive to the cold. Make sure to put them into well-fitting coats without restricting their movements.

3. Keep Their Paws Warm

Snow, ice, and cold pavement might be uncomfortable or painful for dogs to walk on, especially with the very low temperatures. Protect sensitive paws by putting dog shoes on them. This move will help keep their feet warm and prevent salt, ice, and sharp objects-which may lie hidden in the snow-from reaching them. Ensure that these shoes fit your dog perfectly yet are pretty snug that your dog gradually and slowly adapts to them indoors.

4. Provide a Nutritious Winter Diet

Since dogs during winter usually use a lot of energy to keep themselves warm, especially when taken outdoors, they may require some adjustment in their diet. Nutrient-rich and high-energy food may help them sustain body heat and maintain activeness. 

Please consult your vet regarding specific changes to diet based on your dog's breed, size, and activity level. It is also essential to let them stay hydrated because the air during winter can be very dry.

5. Create a Warm Bedtime Routine

Your dog must be warm while sleeping when the temperatures go down at night. Make them wear dog pajamas during this time, as these give them extra warmth during rest. These pajamas come in unique designs and materials, and they fit your dog snugly to provide much-needed warmth throughout the night. They would keep your pets warm and add an element of adorability to them, making them look as cute as ever!

6. Limit Outdoor Time

While dogs like playing in the snow, this must be limited during severe cold snaps. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures causes hypothermia and frostbite. Allow your dog to be outside for short lengths of time, and if he shivers or lifts his paws off the ground many times, bring him inside. During winter, short walks are preferable over long outdoor ventures.

7. Mental Stimulation Indoors

During winter, when your dog is not getting enough outside time, he could get bored or restless. For mental stimulation, you can give them interactive toys or puzzle toys that test their brains. These indoor games are a variety of fun things to do with your dog inside where it is warm: hide-and-seek, fetch in the hallway, and learning new tricks.

The Bottom Line

Keeping your dog comfortable throughout winter isn't that much of a chore. But by providing them with the right dog outfit to help them enjoy winter, keeping indoor spaces warm, and showering them with mental and physical activities, you can assure them they will be happy and healthy throughout the year's colder months. Your fur buddy relies on you to make their winter experience comfortable. A little preparation can make winter a delightful and pleasurable season for you and your dog!

Rocky Kanaka

Rocky Kanaka is an entrepreneur, pet rescue advocate and dog dad to a rescue boxer named Flip, a blind Cane Corso called Kobe, and a terrier mix named Zoey. He's also a pet chef and owner of The Dog Bakery, which specializes in dog birthday cakes and fresh baked dog treats. His three dogs can't get enough of the dog cakes and treats!

Lorna Ladd

Lorna Paxton Ladd is a passionate dog lover and enthusiast of The Dog Bakery. She loves spoiling her 3 rescue dogs with dog cakes and jerky. A 15 year veteran in the pet industry, her aim is to educate pet parents on the best recipes, products, tips and tricks to optimize the human/canine bond. Her favorite product at The Dog Bakery are the customizable dog birthday cakes.