Keeping Dogs Safe, Healthy and Comfortable in Cold Weather

Protection from the Cold

Freezing weather can be especially dangerous for certain dogs as not all dogs are built for cold weather. Short-haired breeds, small dogs, senior pets or dogs recovering from sensitivity or resent procedures are at a much higher risk for hypothermia and frostbite, so it’s important to limit their exposure and help keep them well protected.

• Consider a dog coat or sweater for short-haired or thin-coated dogs.
  
  
• Limit outdoor time when temperatures dip below freezing.
  
  
• Always provide a warm, dry place for your dog to rest after walks.

Paw & Skin Care

Cold weather takes a toll on more than just your dog’s comfort—icy sidewalks, salted roads, and dry indoor air can quickly dry out or irritate their paws or skin without the right protection.

Paw Pads: Ice, snow, and salted  sidewalks make paw pads dry, rough, or uncomfortable.

Apply a paw protective balm before heading outdoors and reapply as needed. Help protect paws with our beeswax-free, plant-based balm.  

Paw Protector is crafted with nourishing, plant-based ingredients, it creates a moisture barrier, soothes irritation, and helps soothe and moisturize dry or rough paws and noses. No chemicals, parabens, or artificial fragrances —just pure, gentle care to pamper and protect your favorite pups paws. 

• Skin: Dry indoor heat often leads to flaky, itchy skin. Using ahumidifier and a moisturizing dog shampoo can help maintain a soft, hydrated coat.
  
  
• Noses: With cold weather, wind, and forced heat indoors, noses can becomedry or chapped — our Paw Protector works wondershere too, and it’s made to food-grade standardsso it’s safe if licked. Flat-faced dogs with scrunched upmuzzles are proneto dry crusty noses because their facial folds are short which makes it harder to lick and naturally moisten their nose. Their facial folds can also trap debris or bacteria if not routinely cleaned.
  
  
• Supplements: Salmon oil supports skin and coat health, keeping fur soft and shiny. For extra joint and skin support, look for blends with OptiMSM®. Skin & Coat Health Booster is rich in Omega-3’s to add shine and softness to a coat that can become dull and dry during the winter months.

Adjusted Nutrition & Hydration

In winter, dogs use up more energy keeping warm. Active breeds may require a slight increase in food or calorie-rich nutrition to stay healthy and energized through the cold.

• Extra Calories: Active dogs may need slightly more food in colder months.
  
  
• Joint Care: Cold weather can stiffen joints. Supplements that support mobility and flexibility help dogs, especially aging dogs to stay more comfortable. Hip & Joint Mobility Booster helps maintain flexibility and supports healthy joint movement for a happy and healthy pup.
  
  
• Hydration: Dogs tend to drink less in the winter so dehydration is a risk. It’s also important to keep fresh water away from any cold vents or drafts that may freeze the water. 

Grooming Matters

A well-maintained coat is your dog’s first line of defense against the cold, providing essential insulation and protection through the winter months.

• Brushing: Regular brushing removes dead hair, prevents mats, and
  
  distributes natural oils. Just 2–3 minutes daily, plus a weekly deep brushing will keep your dogs coat in great shape.
  
  
• Double-Coated Dogs: Breeds like Huskies, Chows, Samoyeds and Shepherds, or ones with a thick double-coat benefit from routine grooming to prevent matting that blocks insulation or can trap dirt and debris.
  
  
• After Walks: dry your dog thoroughly after snow or rain as a damp coat can cause discomfort or uncomfortable skin irritation.
  
  
• Check for Ice & Snow: Inspect the paws, toes, belly, and around the tail—especially in long-haired breeds—for clumps of ice.
  
  
• Bedding: Wash blankets and bedding often to lessen dirt transference and keep their coat clean. It also helps reduce the buildup of dirt and allergens and loose fur that can contribute to tangles and matted fur.

 Safety & Seasonal Hazards

Fireplaces are cozy in winter, but they can pose two risks to your dog: safety hazards and drying effects on their coat/skin.

• Dogs are naturally drawn to warmth and may get too close.
  
  
• Sparks, popping embers, or hot glass doors can cause burns.
  
  
• Puppies and curious dogs might not recognize the danger of a fireplace — use with caution.

How to Protect Them:

• Use a sturdy fireplace screen or gate to create a barrier.
  
  
• Place a dog bed near but at a safe distance to enjoy warmth without risk.

Never leave your dog unsupervised in a room with an open flame.

Cold weather brings risks that go far beyond low temperatures, including hidden hazards like ice melt, antifreeze, and reduced visibility.

• Temperature Limits: Dogs vary in what they can tolerate. Small or dogs with thin coats often need extra protection.

• Visibility: Winter days are short — use reflective collars, leashes, or LED lights to keep your dog visible at night.
  
  
• Chemicals: Antifreeze, ice melt, and de-icers arecommon in winter, and toxic if licked off paws. Wipe paws and belliesafter walks and use a clean cloth or pet wipe. Do NOT use baby wipes as theyoften have lotion, lanolin, or perfume that’s toxic to dogs.
  
  
  
• Debris: Remove sharp ice chunks or debris that could irritate paw pads, dry the paws thoroughly and apply Paw Protector. 

Exercise: If outdoor play is limited, provide indoor enrichment like puzzle toys, tug games, or short training sessions to keep your dog active and happy indoors.

• Icy Steps: Safely clear ice off steps and the sidewalk to minimize slips or falls – not only for you, but for your dog’s safety and wellness to minimize slips or falls— helping you and your dog stay steady and comfortable. 

Winterizing your dog is a full-body approach to keeping them safe,      comfortable, and thriving when the temperatures drop. With the right care, and Pet Prospect products, your pup can enjoy the magic of the season right alongside you.