While many pups have a thick fur coat, they can still be susceptible to cold and wet weather. Freezing temperatures and winter hazards can impact our dog’s paws, skin, and overall health. (Have a kitty at home? Read our winter wellness tips for cats, too!)  

Here are seven important winter wellness tips to keep your dog safe, happy, and warm during the cold months.  

Which dog breeds are most at risk in cold weather?

In general, smaller dogs and breeds with short hair will get cold more quickly than larger dogs and breeds with long or thick coats. For short-coated breeds, including Pit Bulls, Greyhounds, and Chihuahuas, limit outside time in the cold and get a sweater or jacket to help your pup’s body regulate temperature.  

Short-nosed and flat-faced breeds, including Boxers, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Pugs, are much more sensitive to extreme heat and cold. It’s safest to keep these dogs inside as much as possible during freezing weather, especially when engaging in physical activity.  

Breeds with thick double coats, including Huskies, Malamutes, and Samoyeds, are better adapted to cold climates. These breeds may not need a jacket and can be outside longer than smaller or shorter-haired pups, though it’s still important to watch for other signs of cold and avoid keeping your dog outside for extended time when temperatures are below freezing.  

How long can my dog stay outside in the winter?

The general rule of thumb is that if it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s too cold for your dog. While some breeds of dogs tolerate cold better, and your pup may love playing outside in the snow, it’s important to keep outdoor time limited in extreme weather.  

Always monitor for signs of discomfort including: shivaering, lifting paws up high or limping, slow movements or lethargy, shallow breathing, licking or biting at the feet. Be sure your dog has access to clean drinking water – use plastic rather than metal bowls which can freeze.  

It is against the law in many states to leave a dog alone outside in cold weather for a prolonged amount of time. In Massachusetts, it is illegal to leave a dog tethered outside in extreme weather (including heat, cold, wind, rain, and snow) for more than 15 minutes.  

Winter wellness tips to keep your dog safe

1. Know the signs of hypothermia in dogs

Hypothermia can be caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures or from having wet fur in cold and windy weather, causing your dog’s body temperature to drop below normal. If left untreated, hypothermia can become severe and even fatal.  

Prevent your dog from getting too cold by keeping them indoors during extreme weather (going out for short walks and potty breaks only), getting them a sweater or jacket for walks, and watching for signs that they are too cold.  

Signs of hypothermia include:  

  • Shivering
  • Pale skin
  • Lethargy or reduced activity
  • Stiff muscles
  • Shallow breathing
  • Fixed and dilated pupils

If your dog is showing symptoms of hypothermia, immediately wrap them in a blanket or towel that has been pre-warmed; or place a hot water bottle on the outside of the blanket to add warmth. Call your veterinarian right away if you suspect your pet has hypothermia.  

2. Protect the paws

Ice melt and rock salt, often used on paved surfaces to prevent icy buildup, can both be harmful to your dog’s paws. Walking across these rough substances can scrape your dog’s tender paw pads, causing irritation, cracking, and bleeding. There are many options to take care of your dog’s paws in winter, including products like paw wax to protect their pads.  

Use pet-safe ice melt on your property and try to avoid walking your dog on paved surfaces in the winter as much as possible. When you come inside from a walk, wipe your pup’s paws down with a warm, wet towel to remove any irritating substances or chemicals they’ve come into contact with. If you live in the city or walk in paved areas often, consider dog booties to protect your furry friend’s feet.  

3. Avoid toxic chemicals

Ice melt and rock salt can not only harm your dog’s pads, they can also be toxic if your dog ingests them by licking their paws. Licking too much salt can lead to intense thirst and cause your pet to over-drink water; which, when combined with extra salt in their body, can lead to serious health issues including brain swelling or seizures.  

Antifreeze used in cars is a major danger to pets in the winter months. Monitor your car for antifreeze leaks, and never let your pet drink from any puddles on winter walks – keep an eye out especially for greenish-colored liquid. Antifreeze tastes sweet and is highly toxic. Ingesting even a small amount can cause kidney failure in dogs. For your own car, seek out pet-safe non-toxic antifreeze or propylene glycol as an alternative.  

4. Practice good skin and coat care

Just as many humans experience dry skin in the cold months, your dog’s skin can become dry and flaky in the winter season. Don’t bathe your pup too frequently during winter, and be sure to always dry them off thoroughly after being wet (whether from a bath, rain, or snow!).  

When coming inside from playing in the snow, remove any ice balls that have formed on your dog’s fur. Check your dog’s feet, ears, tail, and belly for balls of snow and ice clumped in the fur. If left to sit, ice balls can not only be uncomfortable but can cause frostbite. Remove ice balls gently by wrapping the body part in a dry or warm towel to help melt the ice and dry the area.   

Brushing your dog’s coat is a great way to improve blood circulation, keeping them warm and helping keep their skin healthy.  

5. Never leave dogs alone in a cold car

A cold car in the winter can be just as dangerous as a hot car in the summer. Our vehicles are well-insulated, which means that a car sitting outside in the cold can act like a refrigerator, keeping temperatures chilled inside. If left alone in a freezing car, a dog’s body temperature can drop dangerously low and lead to life-threatening hypothermia.  

6. Get exercise to stay warm and active

While you’re cozied up indoors in the chilly weather, it’s important to ensure your pup still gets enough mental and physical exercise! There are plenty of ways to exercise your dog in the colder months.  

Play indoor games with your dog such as tug-of-war and fetch. Buy or make some enrichment puzzles that will stimulate your dog’s brain and keep them entertained! Set a playdate with a doggie friend, or take your pooch to daycare. Look into an indoor obedience class or dog sport, such as agility, flyball, or nosework.  

7. Make sure your pet wears identification

Keep current ID tags on your dog, and consider getting them microchipped (if they aren’t already). A lost pet is stressful at any time of year, but especially in wet or freezing weather when your dog is more susceptible to harm and hypothermia if they are wandering outside for too long.