Winter Care for Dogs: How to Maintain Energy and Health During the Cold Season

December in Lithuania: When Your Dog Doesn't Know Whether to Enjoy the Snow or the Cold

This morning I went for a walk with my dog ​​Max. It's -5°C outside, snowing, windy. Max looks at me with these eyes: "Seriously? We're going NOW?"

But you know what? Within 5 minutes he was jumping around in the snow like crazy. Because dogs LOVE winter. If you know how to take care of them properly.

December in Lithuania is a challenge. It's cold, dark, wet. But that doesn't mean your dog has to suffer or lose energy. On the contrary - with proper care, winter can be wonderful!

Let me share everything I've learned during 15 winters with dogs in Lithuania.

Is Your Dog Really Cold? (Answer: It Depends)

Dogs For Whom Winter Is Like a Vacation:

• Huskies, Malamutes - born for the cold, like -20°C
• German Shepherds, Saint Bernards - thick coat, tolerates cold well
• Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers - double coat, loves snow
• Large dogs with thick coats - usually tolerate well

These dogs often REFUSE to go inside in the winter. Max (a Labrador) can lie in the snow for an hour and be happy.

Dogs in Need of Help:

• Chihuahuas, Yorkshires, Small breeds - small body = gets cold quickly
• French Bulldogs, Pugs - short coat, breathing problems in the cold
• Greyhounds, Whippets - almost no fat layer
• Older dogs - weaker metabolism
• Puppies - not yet developed thermoregulation

My client Juste has a French bulldog named Charlie. He starts shivering after 5 minutes outside in the winter. He NEEDS clothes.

Winter Care Basics: 7 Things You Need to Know

1. Clothes: When Are They Really Necessary?

Okay, I know what you're thinking. "Clothes for dogs? That's ridiculous!"

But here's the truth: for some dogs, clothes aren't a fashion statement - they're a NECESSITY.

When You Really Need Clothes:

• Temperature below 0°C + small dog
• Temperature below -10°C + short coat
• Wind and humidity (feels colder than it is)
• Long walk (30+ min)
• Older or sick dog

How to Choose a Dress:

• Must cover your back and chest (not just your back!)
• Should not interfere with movement or urination
• Water resistant - snow and sleet
• Easy to take off (doesn't stress the dog)

Pro Tip: If your dog is shivering, pulling his tail under his belly, or lifting his legs, he is cold. Clothing is a MUST.

2. Foot and Paw Care: Ignored, But Critical

Here's something many people don't know: salt on the road BURNS a dog's paws. Seriously. It's like walking barefoot on hot coals.

What's Happening in Winter:

• Salt and chemicals on the knees - irritation, pain
• Ice between the fingers - cuts, hurts
• Cold asphalt - burns (yes, from frost!)
• Dry, cracked paws - bleeding

How to Protect:

Before the Walk:

• Special wax for paws (creates a protective layer)
• Or boots (yes, dog boots work!)
• Check between your fingers for ice.

After the Walk:

• Wash your feet with warm (not hot!) water.
• Dry well, especially between the toes
• Check for cuts or redness
• Moisturize the paws (special cream or coconut oil)

Max once had cracked paws - he limped for a week. Now I ALWAYS wax before going out.

3. Winter Nutrition: Why Your Dog May Need More Calories

Here's what many people don't know: in the cold, a dog's body uses MORE energy to maintain temperature.

When You Need More Calories:

• The dog spends a lot of time outdoors
• Active dog (running, playing in the snow)
• Dog with short fur
• Young, growing dog

When NOT NEEDED More:

• The dog spends most of its time inside.
• You walk less because of the weather.
• The dog is prone to obesity

Winter Nutrition for Active Dogs:

If your dog is active in the winter (running, playing, spending a lot of time outdoors), he needs food that keeps him energized:

• Royal Canin Sport Life Agility Large 15kg - for large, active dogs
• Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult 12kg - golden retrievers who love snow
• Royal Canin German Shepherd Adult 11kg - German Shepherds active in winter

Supplements In Winter:

• Skin and coat health - dry air in winter is harmful to the skin
• For joint health - cold can worsen joint problems
• Omega-3 fatty acids - supports skin and coat health

Important: If you are unsure whether to change the amount of food, consult your veterinarian. Obesity is a common problem in winter!

4. Hydration: Yes, Even in Winter!

Many people think: "It's cold, the dog drinks less - it's normal."

NO. It's dangerous.

Why Hydration Is Important in Winter:

• Dry heated air inside - dehydration
• Cold - dogs often forget to drink
• Activity in the snow - sweaty (yes, dogs sweat!)
• Heating consumes water

How to Make Sure Your Dog Drinks Enough:

• Always fresh water (change 2 times a day)
• Warm water (not hot!) - more attractive in winter
• Several water bowls at home
• Wet food - additional hydration
• Juicy - add to dry food

Tip: If your dog's urine is darker than usual, he is drinking too little!

5. Walks: Quality > Quantity

In December mornings in Lithuania it is dark until 8 am. In the evenings it is dark from 4 pm. Cold. Wet. I understand - you don't want to go outside.

But your dog STILL needs exercise.

Winter Walking Strategy:

Shorter, But More Frequent:

• Instead of 1x60 min → 3x20 min
• Less time in the cold, but still active
• Easier for you and your dog

More intense:

• Snow games - running, throwing a ball
• Olfactory games - hide treats in the snow
• Training - the cold helps the dog focus

Security:

• Reflector - A MUST in the dark
• Long leash - ice is slippery, the dog can slip
• Avoiding deep snow - difficult for small dogs
• Monitor your dog's behavior - if it's shaking, go home

6. Indoor Activity: When It's Too Cold to Go Outside

Sometimes it's just TOO cold. -20°C with wind? No thanks.

Indoor Games That Are Tiring:

Olfactory Games (The Best!):

• Hide treats in the house - the dog is looking for them
• "Which hand?" - hold the treat in your fist
• Box game - treats under the boxes

Mental Exercises:

• Teach new tricks
• Puzzle toys with food
• "Find the object" - teach to look for specific objects

Physical Games:

• Stairs - running up and down (not for puppies!)
• Rope pulling
• Throwing a ball in the hallway

Pro Tip: 15 minutes of sniffing play = 45 minutes of walking. Your dog will be tired and happy!

7. Skin and Coat Care: Dry Weather = Problems

Heated air in winter is a DISASTER for a dog's skin. Dry skin, dandruff, itching.

How to Help:

• Bathe less - once every 6-8 weeks is enough
• Moisturizing shampoo - special for dogs
• Humidifier - helps both you and your dog
• Comb more often - stimulates natural oils
• Omega-3 supplements - or a special supplement

Signs That Your Skin Is Too Dry:

• White flakes
• The dog scratches often.
• Dry, flaky skin
• Dull, unhealthy-looking coat

Special Cases: Puppies, Senior Dogs, Health Issues

Puppies in Winter (First Winter)

If this is your puppy's first winter - be careful:

• Short walks - 10-15 minutes at first
• Watch the reaction - some puppies are AFRAID of snow
• Positive associations - games, treats in the snow
• Clothing is a MUST - they don't have a full coat yet
• Proper nutrition - growth requires energy

Older Dogs (7+ Years)

Colds VERY affect older dogs:

• Joint pain - arthritis worsens in the cold
• Weaker immunity - easier to get sick
• Slower metabolism - faster cold
• Less energy - shorter walks

How to Help:

• Warm bed (not on the floor!)
• Shorter but more frequent walks
• Warm clothing ALWAYS
• Joint supplement - helps a lot
• Gentle heating at home

Dogs with Health Problems

Arthritis/Joint Problems:

• Cold = more pain
• Warm clothing is essential.
• Supplements and medications (consult your veterinarian)
• Gentle exercise (swimming if possible)

Heart Problems:

• Cold = extra stress on the heart
• Short walks
• Avoid sudden temperature changes
• Regular veterinary check-ups

Dangers in Winter: What to Avoid

1. Antifreeze - DEADLY

Antifreeze has a sweet taste. Dogs lick it. And die.

Even a SMALL amount can be fatal. If you suspect your dog may have licked it - see a vet IMMEDIATELY!

2. Salt and Chemicals

Not only do they burn your feet, they are also poisonous if your dog licks them.

Always wash your feet after a walk!

3. Frozen Bodies of Water

Ice may look solid, but...

NEVER let your dog run on ice. If it breaks, it could drown or die from hypothermia.

4. Car Engine

Cats (and sometimes small dogs) hide under the hood in the heat.

Knock on the hood before you start the engine!

5. Hypothermia

Signs:

• Intense shaking
• Lethargy, weakness
• Slow breathing
• Cold ears and paws
• Dilated pupils

If you see these signs - IMMEDIATELY bring inside, warm up (not too quickly!), call the vet.

Practical December Checklist

Every Week:

• ☐ Check the paws for cracks
• ☐ Check ears - moisture can cause infections
• ☐ Weigh your dog - obesity is common in winter
• ☐ Check the garment for fit and damage

Every Month:

• ☐ Assess the amount of food - is it appropriate?
• ☐ Check water usage
• ☐ Assess activity level
• ☐ Schedule a vet visit (if needed)

Before Every Walk:

• ☐ Check temperature (do I need a coat?)
• ☐ Apply wax to paws (if there is salt on the knees)
• ☐ Reflector (if it's dark)
• ☐ Water with you (if it's a long walk)

After Every Walk:

• ☐ Wash your feet
• ☐ Dry thoroughly
• ☐ Check between the toes (ice? cuts?)
• ☐ Remove clothing (to allow coat to dry)

The Last Word: Winter Can Be Wonderful!

You know what? Max LOVES winter. More than summer.

He jumps in the snowdrifts. He catches snowflakes. He rolls in the snow like crazy. And he comes home happy, tired, with snow on his nose.

Winter can be wonderful for your dog if you know how to take proper care of it.

So don't be afraid of the cold. Dress warmly (and your dog!), get outside, and enjoy yourself. Because summer is coming soon, and you'll be longing for those snowy days.

If you have any questions about winter care or nutrition - I'm here I'll be happy to help!

With love for dogs and winter adventures,
Dmitry

PS Take a picture of your dog in the snow and send it to me! I want to see those happy faces!