Winter Dog Health - What You Need to Know
Essential Cold-Weather Tips to Keep Your Dog Happy & Well
It honestly never occurred to me — not fully — that dogs can get the winter blues just like we do. But over the years, I’ve seen a clear connection between Ciccio’s mood, energy levels, and the weather.
On those cold grey days he’s slower, less playful, and so much more likely to curl up under a blanket and wait for spring. And honestly… same.
Winter affects our dogs more than we think.
Their joints stiffen, their digestion slows, their skin dries out, and their overall vitality drops. And when the days are short and walks are limited, they need a little extra support to stay healthy and happy.
So let’s talk about winter dog health, what to watch out for, and simple ways you can boost your dog’s well-being all season long.
1. Shorter Walks = Slower Digestion + Winter Weight Gain
When cold weather hits, our dogs naturally move less.
Shorter walks and longer naps mean their digestion slows too — which can quickly lead to weight gain, boredom, and restless energy.
This is where fiber becomes the quiet winter hero. Fiber helps keep digestion smooth, energy steady, and hunger in check, especially when exercise drops.
I add fiber to his regular kibble - it’s often a bit lacking in dog food unfortunately. I add whatever veggies I’m eating that day - sweet potatoes, green beans, zucchini, even chickpeas and black beans. Just a spoonful will add variety which is great for your pup’s microbiome, but they will love the tasty ‘human’ goodies!
I will also lean heavily on handmade treats from The Barkery. By using whole food ingredients - no concentrates, no powders - just real food.
I choose our high-fiber dog treats during winter, especially in enrichment activities.
My favorites for Ciccio are:
They’re perfect for snuffle mats and puzzle toys because they break into tiny pieces and turn enrichment time into meaningful gut support. Even 10 minutes of scent work indoors can replace a long winter walk.
Beetroot Bliss | Vegan Dog Treats
2. Cold Weather and Joint Stiffness
If your dog hesitates on stairs or takes longer to stand up after resting, the cold may be affecting their joints. Senior dogs feel it most, but even younger dogs can struggle in winter.
For natural joint support, Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric dog treats is one of my favourite winter add-ins. Prepared with homemade bone broth and a touch of peanut butter, your dog will go crazy for the flavor. What they don’t know is that the superfood turmeric will help ease inflammation and even helps to relieve aches and pains, helping ease stiffness and keeping your dog more comfortable on icy days. Pair this with warm coats, soft blankets, and gentle warm compresses after cold walks, and it makes a surprising difference.
3. Winter Weakens the Immune System (But Food Can Help)
Less sunlight in winter means less natural vitamin D — and cold temperatures can stress a dog’s immune system. Inside, heating dries out their skin and mucous membranes. It’s a tricky combination.
This is when fresh, whole-food nutrition matters even more.
That’s exactly why I created The Barkery Toppers — they’re an easy way to boost vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants without changing your dog’s main diet. Just sprinkle, mix, and serve. Your dog gets an immediate winter nutrition lift.
It’s one of the simplest ways to support winter immunity in dogs.
4. Dry Skin, Dull Coat, and Winter Itching
Swiss winters can be especially harsh on a dog’s skin. The cold outside + dry indoor heating creates that familiar “winter itch” — flaking, redness, and a coat that suddenly loses its shine.
Supporting skin health from the inside out is the most effective approach.
In winter, I rotate these three treats for Ciccio:
Chia Seed Crunch (omega-rich for skin hydration)
Calming Chamomile | Gluten Free (calming + skin-soothing)
Fresh Breath Spirulina (deep mineral and antioxidant support)
These treats nourish the skin, calm inflammation, and keep the coat soft and shiny throughout the winter months.
5. Dogs Can Get the Winter Blues Too
Dogs absolutely experience mood shifts during winter.
Lower light, fewer walks, and cold temperatures can make even the happiest pup seem a little flat.
This is where spirulina becomes something close to magic.
Yes, spirulina is packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and immune-supporting compounds — but what I see most clearly is its effect on vitality.
It doesn’t hype dogs up.
It brings them back to themselves.
Spirulina helps with:
- low mood
- sluggish energy
- “not themselves” days
- overall winter vitality
It creates that unmistakable spark — the same one I saw in Bucky during her cancer journey, when these Fresh Breath Spirulina treats first came to life. On cold grey days, spirulina just… lifts them.
Winter Isn’t Something to Fear — It’s Something to Support Your Dog Through
Winter dog health isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about the small, intentional choices that help your dog feel comfortable, energized, and emotionally supported.
More enrichment.
More fiber.
More warmth.
More nourishing whole foods.
More tiny moments of connection.
That’s really what winter wellness is: little habits that make your dog’s life softer, easier, and healthier — no matter how cold it gets outside.
