Winter Is Coming: 5 Changes You Might Notice in Your Dog as the Weather Cools

As the temperature drops, your dog’s behaviour, habits, and health needs can subtly shift, just like ours do. From changes in appetite to increased stiffness, understanding these seasonal patterns helps you stay proactive about your pet’s wellbeing.

Here are five common changes you may notice in your dog as we head into the colder months, and what to do about them.

1. Increased appetite

Dogs often need more energy in winter due to the increased demand for thermoregulation, the body’s process of maintaining its internal temperature. This means your dog might seem hungrier than usual or look for more snacks. While the difference in caloric needs is fairly marginal, it’s still worth being mindful. Treats and extras should make up no more than 10% of their daily intake to maintain a healthy weight.

2. Drinking less water

With reduced physical activity and cooler temperatures, it’s common for dogs to drink less in winter. But hydration is still just as important. Refresh their water bowl daily and keep an eye on intake, especially if your dog is older or doesn’t get a lot of water in their diet.

3. Seeking out warm spots

Modern dogs feel the cold too! Particularly those with short or sparse coats, lean body types, or health conditions. If your dog is curling up in the laundry basket or burrowing under blankets more than usual, consider getting them a coat for outdoor walks and an extra blanket for bedtime. Small upgrades like a cosy jumper or heated bed can make a big difference to their comfort.‍

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4. Worsening joint stiffness

Cold, damp weather can exacerbate arthritis symptoms in dogs, especially in older pets or those predisposed to joint issues. You might notice they’re slower to rise, taking shorter walks, or avoiding stairs. Make sure your dog has a warm bed, ideally elevated or insulated from the floor, and positioned out of any draughts. And if you’re already aware of underlying joint issues, winter is a good time to check in with your vet.

5. Less itching, finally!

Here’s a silver lining: environmental allergies tend to ease up in the colder months. If your dog struggles with spring and summer flare-ups, you might notice they’re scratching less and their skin looks calmer. Enjoy the reprieve; and keep their coat and skin in good condition with regular brushing and balanced nutrition.

At Elita Genetics, we believe being proactive about your dog’s health starts with understanding the little changes. Whether it’s joint support, hydration, or a warm place to sleep, small tweaks in your winter routine can go a long way.

Want to stay ahead of the curve in pet health? Sign up today to be part of Australia’s first stem cell bank for pets and give your dog the best chance at a long, healthy, happy (and comfy!) life.