Winter dog care: how to keep your dog safe, warm and well

Cold, wet and icy weather in winter can affect your dog's health and safety. Some dogs, especially small, short-coated, young or older dogs, feel the cold more. A few simple changes to your routine can help keep your dog comfortable until spring.

Keep up with vet check-ups

Take your dog for a check-up at least once a year, as your vet recommends. A check-up lets your vet look at your dog's body condition and pick up any health problems early, so you know your dog is fit enough to cope with the colder weather.

It is also a good chance to ask your vet for advice on caring for your dog through the winter, particularly if they are elderly or have a condition such as arthritis.

Adjust the timing and length of walks

UK winter weather is unpredictable, and temperatures can drop sharply in the late afternoon and overnight. Where you can:

• walk your dog later in the morning, once the day has warmed up a little
• go out earlier in the evening, before temperatures fall further
• keep walks shorter on very cold days, as long as your dog still gets the chance to go to the toilet and stretch their legs

Dogs still need exercise and stimulation in winter, so make up for shorter walks with games and training indoors.

Consider a coat for dogs that feel the cold

Thick-coated breeds often cope well with cold weather, but small, thin or short-coated dogs, and young or older dogs, may benefit from a well-fitting dog coat. Check that it doesn't rub, lets your dog move freely, and is dried between walks. Towel your dog dry when you get home, as a wet coat makes it harder to keep warm.

Look after their paws

Grit and de-icing products on pavements and roads can irritate paws and may make your dog ill if they lick them off. Ice and compacted snow can also build up between the toes.

• Wipe or rinse your dog's paws and underside after walks, then dry them.
• Check between the pads for cuts, cracks and balls of ice.
• Keep the fur between the pads trimmed if it collects snow, or ask a groomer to do it.

If your dog's paws look sore or they start limping, ask your vet for advice.

Keep antifreeze out of reach

Antifreeze is poisonous to dogs, and even a small amount can be very dangerous. Store it securely, clean up any spills straight away, and keep your dog away from puddles on driveways and roads. If you think your dog has swallowed antifreeze, contact your vet immediately, even if they seem well.

Stay visible on dark walks

Many winter walks happen in the dark. Wear something bright or reflective yourself, and use a reflective collar, harness, lead or a clip-on light for your dog. Keep your dog on a lead near roads, and only let them off where you can see them and they have reliable recall.

Give them a warm place to rest

Make sure your dog's bed is raised off cold floors and away from draughts. Extra blankets help, especially for older dogs with stiff joints. Never leave your dog alone in a car in cold weather, as cars can quickly become very cold.