A vet nurse has shared her tips to keep dogs safe in cold weather – and shared which ones need the most help (stock image) (Image: Alexandra Jursova via Getty Images)
The UK has been hit with snow, ice and freezing temperatures this week, with The Met Office now issuing further yellow weather warnings as temperatures are set to hit -12C.
After the « coldest night of this winter so far » and snowfall across the UK, the forecaster is warning of icy conditions that are likely to cause disruption.
Numerous dogs will experience the effects of freezing conditions far more acutely than their owners may appreciate.
Whilst some pet owners resort to social media for advice on how dropping temperatures will impact their furry companions, seeking professional guidance is essential.
Leah Callaghan, Vet Nurse at Butternut Box, is emphasising which dog breeds are most vulnerable during icy weather and offering practical advice to help pet owners keep their dogs warm, comfortable and healthy throughout the winter period.
READ MORE: 5 easy methods pet owners can use to ‘calm a dog’s anxiety’
1. Lean and Short-Haired Breeds (Whippets, Greyhounds, Boxers, Vizslas)
Slender breeds with minimal body fat and lacking a thick undercoat feel the cold remarkably rapidly.
These dogs are frequently the first to shiver on freezing mornings.
« Every dog is different, » says Leah. « A husky might be in their element on a frosty morning, while a whippet or terrier could start shivering after a short walk. It’s about knowing your dog and watching how they respond. »
These dogs typically require a coat when temperatures fall to approximately 10°C to avoid swift heat loss and muscle stiffness.
2. Small and Toy Breeds (Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers)
Owing to their high surface-area-to-volume ratio, smaller dogs lose heat far more quickly than their larger counterparts.
« As the temperature drops, some dogs feel it more than others, especially smaller breeds, older dogs, or those with short coats, » the expert explains.
« They rely on us to spot when it’s getting too chilly and make little changes to keep them warm and comfortable. »
A properly-fitted jacket helps them maintain core body heat even during brief walks.
3. Puppies
Like small breeds, puppies struggle to regulate their body temperature. Their energy reserves are limited, and they tire more easily in cold conditions.
« Each dog’s tolerance varies; smaller breeds, puppies, and older dogs have a lower ability to regulate body temperature, whereas active or thick-coated breeds perform considerably better, » Leak notes.
Short, regular outings help prevent them from becoming too cold.
4. Elderly dogs and dogs with joint problems
Cold conditions prove especially challenging for senior dogs and those with arthritis, as low temperatures decrease blood flow and increase stiffness.
« For senior dogs and those with arthritis, cold weather exacerbates pain by reducing circulation and tightening muscles, » Leah explains. « For these patients, a good-quality coat is part of their clinical management, helping to minimise stiffness and improve mobility throughout the season. »
A warm jacket and consistent routine can significantly enhance their quality of life.
5. Dogs in damp or blustery conditions
Even thick-coated breeds can lose their insulating properties when their fur becomes soaked through.
These dogs would benefit from a waterproof jacket for those wet walks.
6. Dogs with reduced energy or decreased appetite in winter
If your pooch seems less enthusiastic about outdoor activities during the colder months, they might be expending extra energy to maintain their body temperature.
« Nutrition also plays a key role in helping dogs handle the cold. Meals made from fresh, high-quality ingredients give them the energy and nutrients they need to stay warm and active, » says the expert.
Nutritious, energy-rich meals can help keep them warm and lively during winter walks.
7. Dogs displaying signs of cold sensitivity
Some dogs will make it clear they’re feeling the cold much earlier than you might anticipate.
Common signs include:
- Shivering.
- Hunched posture.
- Tucked tail.
- Reluctance to walk.
- Lifting paws off the ground.
- Seeking warmth or contact.
These signs aren’t breed-specific – even those typically comfortable in cold weather can display them.
How to support cold-sensitive dogs
- Opt for short, frequent walks instead of long, chilly outings.
- Dry their fur and paws straight after walks.
- Use a dog-safe paw balm to shield from ice and salt.
- Keep their beds out of drafts.
- Stick to a regular routine.
- Expert’s conclusion.
Expert’s conclusion
Leah advises: « When temperatures fall, small changes in behaviour can say a lot. Trust what your dog is showing you. If they appear tense or eager to head home, it’s better to cut the walk short and keep them warm.
« Dogs can enjoy winter just as much as summer if you keep them comfortable and stick to their usual routine. »
