Keeping Dogs Safe in Cold Weather: Winter Care Guide

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Even dogs with fur coats feel winter's bite. A few habits keep them comfortable and safe.

Who feels the cold most

• Small and toy breeds
• Short-coated and thin dogs
• Puppies and seniors
• Dogs with arthritis or heart disease. See arthritis in dogs
• Dogs with little body fat

Thick-coated northern breeds tolerate cold better, but are not immune. See small breed health concerns.

Clothing and bedding

A well-fitted coat or sweater helps vulnerable dogs on walks. Choose items that do not restrict movement. Inside, provide a thick bed off the floor, away from drafts, and watch heaters to avoid burns.

Walking in winter

1. Shorten walks in extreme cold, and go out more often rather than longer.
2. Avoid thin ice on ponds and rivers.
3. Keep dogs on a leash in snow, since they can lose their way and scent.
4. Wear reflective gear in dark afternoons.
5. Watch for shivering, lifting paws or slowing down.

Paw care

Ice balls, rough ice and salt can injure paws. Trim hair between toes, apply a protective balm if advised and rinse and dry feet after every walk. See how to protect dog paws from road salt, dog paw pad care guide and dog nail and paw injuries.

Antifreeze and chemicals

Ethylene glycol antifreeze tastes sweet and is deadly in tiny amounts, causing kidney failure. Clean spills, store products securely and call a vet immediately if you suspect ingestion. Many de-icers are also irritants. See dog poisoning: what to do.

Outdoor dogs

Most dogs are happiest indoors with family. If a dog must be outside briefly, provide a dry, insulated shelter with straw or blankets, unfrozen water and extra food, and bring him in during extreme cold.

Food and water

Dogs that are very active outdoors may need more calories, but many indoor dogs need less in winter. Monitor weight. Ensure water does not freeze.

Signs of cold stress

• Shivering
• Slowing or stopping
• Whining
• Seeking shelter
• Lethargy and weakness
• Pale or gray skin on ears, tail or paws

Hypothermia and frostbite

Severe cold can cause dangerously low body temperature and tissue damage. Warm gradually with blankets, avoid hot water and see a vet. See hypothermia and frostbite in dogs.

Wet and wind

Wet fur loses heat quickly, so dry your dog after snow or rain and use a coat in damp conditions. Windchill makes weather feel colder.

Cars and cold

Cars can be as dangerous in cold as in heat, since they hold in cold. Do not leave dogs inside.

Heating hazards

Keep dogs from space heaters, fireplaces and hot radiators, and supervise around candles.

Questions to ask your vet

Ask whether your dog is at higher risk, how long outdoor time is safe and how to adjust diet and exercise.

Common mistakes

• Leaving dogs outside
• Skipping paw rinsing
• Ignoring antifreeze
• Letting dogs on thin ice

Troubleshooting

• My dog refuses to walk on snow: try boots and a shorter route.
• He shivers indoors: check for illness and provide warmth.
• Her pads are cracked: see paw care advice and your vet.

A simple plan

1. Use a coat when needed.
2. Wipe paws.
3. Limit exposure.
4. Secure antifreeze.

Real-life examples

A whippet in a coat enjoys short winter walks. A husky loves snow but has paws rinsed after salting. A terrier avoids frostbite thanks to a quick return indoors. Care counts.

Warm and safe

A few simple habits make winter safer.

The takeaway

Protect dogs from cold with coats, paw care, limited exposure and attention to antifreeze and hypothermia signs.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.