How to care for your dog in winter

Dark evenings and cold, wet weather affect our pets as well as us. It's easy to assume a dog's fur will keep them warm whatever the weather, but that isn't always true. Cold, damp conditions can lead to sore paws, dry skin and, in serious cases, hypothermia or frostbite.

Cold weather conditions to know about

Frostbite

Frostbite happens when parts of the body get so cold that the tissue is damaged. When a dog gets very cold, their body draws blood away from the ears, paws and tail to keep the vital organs warm, which leaves those areas most at risk.

Frostbite isn't always easy to spot. Signs to look for include pale or greyish skin, and skin that feels hard and very cold to the touch.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is when a dog's body temperature drops too low. It can happen when a dog spends too long in cold, wet weather. Dogs with a serious health condition are more prone to hypothermia.

Early signs include uncontrollable shivering and very cold legs and paws. As it gets worse, a dog may become weak, dull and lethargic, their muscles may stiffen, and their heart rate and breathing can slow down. Hypothermia can be life-threatening.

If you think your dog has hypothermia or frostbite, warm them gently with blankets and contact your vet straight away. Don't rub frostbitten areas or use direct heat.

How to tell if your dog is cold

A dog that is shivering, seems anxious, whines, or doesn't want to keep walking or playing may be too cold and need to go back indoors.

Some dogs cope with the cold better than others. Small, thin-coated, young, old or unwell dogs may need a coat in cold weather. Dogs that are low to the ground also tend to feel the cold more.

Winter hazards

• Antifreeze. Antifreeze is highly poisonous and tastes sweet to pets. Wipe up spills and contact a vet immediately if you think your dog has licked any.
• Frozen water. Keep dogs off frozen ponds and lakes. The ice may not hold their weight.
• Grit and salt. Grit and rock salt can dry and irritate paws, and can be harmful if licked. Wash grit and salt off their paws after walks.

How to care for your dog in winter

A coat when they need one

If your dog is one of those who feels the cold, a well-fitting dog coat can help keep them warm and dry on walks.

Paw care

Cold, wet weather can leave paws sore and cracked, just as it can our skin. Try to avoid gritted and salted areas where you can. When you get home, wash and dry your dog's paws. If they look sore or chapped, ask your vet what to use on them.

Warm, comfortable bedding

Your dog needs a comfortable bed all year round, but in winter it may need to move somewhere away from draughts and cold, uninsulated floors. A warm blanket they can snuggle into helps too.

If your dog needs a little extra warmth, use a pet-safe heat pad or a well-wrapped warm (not hot) bottle, and make sure your dog can move away from it.

Skin and coat

Wet weather outside and central heating inside can both dry out a dog's skin. Keep up regular brushing and dry your dog thoroughly after wet walks. If your dog's skin is dry or flaky, ask your vet before adding supplements or using skin products.

Fresh water

Dogs can become dehydrated in winter as well as summer, and central heating can make them thirstier. Keep their bowl topped up with fresh water, and check outdoor water hasn't frozen.

Older dogs

Take extra care with older dogs. They are more likely to have conditions such as arthritis and may be slower and less steady on their feet. Take winter walks at their pace, avoid slippery surfaces, and keep them warm while they're outside.