How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Happy in Winter: 10 Essential Tips
Cold weather, grit, antifreeze and dark walks: 10 simple tips to keep your dog safe, warm and happy through the UK winter.
Most dogs love winter walks, but cold weather brings a few hidden dangers. From road grit to dark evenings, here's how to keep your dog safe and comfortable until spring.
10 winter tips for dog owners
- Check if your dog needs a coat. Small dogs, puppies, older dogs and dogs with short or thin coats, like greyhounds and whippets, often feel the cold. Thick-coated breeds usually don't need one.
- Wipe their paws after walks. Grit and salt on pavements can irritate paws and upset your dog's stomach if they lick it off.
- Watch out for antifreeze. It tastes sweet to dogs and is very poisonous. Clean up any spills straight away and keep it out of reach. If you think your dog has drunk any, call your vet immediately.
- Be seen in the dark. Use a reflective or light-up collar, lead or coat, and wear something bright yourself.
- Keep away from frozen ponds and lakes. Keep your dog on a lead near ice. If your dog falls through, don't go in after them. Call 999 and ask for the fire service.
- Dry them off. Towel your dog dry after wet walks, especially older dogs, so they don't get chilled.
- Give them a warm bed away from draughts and cold floors.
- Keep them busy indoors. On days when walks are shorter, use puzzle feeders and short training games.
- Never leave your dog in a cold car. Cars can get very cold very quickly in winter.
- Watch their weight. If your dog is less active in winter, they may need slightly less food.
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Signs your dog is too cold
Shivering, lifting their paws, slowing down, whining or trying to turn back home are all signs your dog is cold. Head home, warm them up gently and give them a towel rub. If they seem weak or unwell, contact your vet.
Common questions
How cold is too cold to walk a dog?
It depends on the dog. Small, old and short-haired dogs feel the cold much faster. In very cold weather, take shorter, more frequent walks and use a coat if your dog needs one.
Is rock salt bad for dogs?
Grit and salt can irritate paws and can be harmful if your dog eats it. Wipe their paws after walks and don't let them lick it.
Do dogs need boots in winter?
Most don't. Boots can help dogs with sensitive paws on icy or gritted ground, but let your dog get used to them slowly.
Should I give my dog more food in winter?
Most pet dogs don't need more food in winter. Very active outdoor dogs might. Ask your vet if you're unsure.
Related guides
This guide is for general information only. Every pet is different, so speak to your vet if you are worried about your pet's health.
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