Cold Weather Nutrition for Dogs: What Your Pup Needs When Temperatures Drop

As winter settles in and temperatures fall, dogs experience several physiological changes that can affect their nutritional needs. Just like people adjust their habits throughout the colder months, dogs may require changes to their diet to stay healthy, energized, and comfortable.

Here’s a look at how cold weather impacts canine nutrition — and what kinds of foods or nutrients can help support your dog during the winter season.

❄️ Why Cold Weather Affects a Dog’s Nutritional Needs

1. Dogs Burn More Calories to Stay Warm

When it’s cold, dogs use more energy to maintain their body temperature.
This is especially true for:

Short-haired breeds
Small dogs
Senior dogs
Underweight dogs
Active breeds that spend a lot of time outside

Because of this extra energy demand, some dogs may benefit from slightly increased calories during winter.

2. Dryer Air Can Affect Hydration & Digestion

Indoor heating systems dry out the air, which can affect hydration levels in dogs.
Even dogs who drink regularly may become mildly dehydrated in winter.

Hydration also plays a major role in digestion, joint comfort, mobility, and overall well-being — making moisture-rich foods especially helpful during colder months.

3. Winter Can Be Challenging for Skin & Coat Health

Cold wind, snow, road salt, and dry indoor heat can contribute to:

Dry or itchy skin
Dandruff
Dull coats
Brittle hair or increased shedding

A supportive diet helps maintain the protective oils and moisture balance in the skin and coat.

4. Immune Support Is More Important in Winter

Seasonal stress, reduced sunlight, and lower activity levels can play a role in how well a dog’s immune system functions. Nutrition is a key part of supporting overall immunity during colder months.

🥣 How to Support Your Dog’s Nutrition During Cold Weather

1. Consider Moisture-Rich Foods

Moisture plays an important role in digestion, hydration, and skin health.
Adding some of the following can help increase your dog’s water intake naturally:

Wet food
Frozen raw food
Gently cooked food
Hydrating toppers like broths or goat milk

These options can also be easier to digest for some dogs.

2. Choose Diets With Good Quality Fats

Healthy fats are a major energy source for dogs and help maintain body heat.
They also support brain health, skin, coat, and the absorption of certain vitamins.

Look for diets with fat sources such as:

Salmon or other fish
Chicken fat
Beef fat
Flaxseed or other omega-rich oils

3. Look for High-Quality Protein

Protein helps maintain healthy muscle mass and provides energy during colder months — especially for active dogs.
Dogs who walk more, play outside in the snow, or join you on winter hikes may benefit from diets with slightly higher protein levels.

4. Don’t Forget About Omega Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are particularly helpful in winter. They support:

Skin and coat health
Joint comfort
Immune function
Heart and brain health

Fish-based diets, marine oils, and some supplements are excellent sources of omegas.

5. Support Gut Health

A healthy digestive system helps a dog absorb nutrients efficiently — which is especially important when calorie needs shift.

Probiotics and prebiotics may help support:

Strong immunity
Better digestion
Improved nutrient absorption

These can be found in certain foods, supplements, and fermented ingredients.

🐕‍🦺 Which Dogs Benefit Most From Cold Weather Dietary Adjustments?

Senior Dogs

Older dogs may struggle more with maintaining body heat or weight. They often benefit from:

Easily digestible foods
Moderate increases in healthy fats
Joint-supportive nutrients

Short-Haired and Small Breeds

These dogs lose heat more easily and may require:

Slightly more calories
Warm, moisture-rich meals
Indoor activity to keep muscles strong

Highly Active Dogs

Working dogs, hiking companions, or dogs who play outdoors frequently may need more calories and higher-protein diets to maintain energy levels.

🧊 Tips for Feeding Dogs in Cold Weather

Avoid sudden diet changes — adjust gradually
Monitor your dog’s weight weekly
Watch for signs of dehydration (dry nose, sticky gums, lethargy)
If your dog loses weight in winter, consult your veterinarian about increasing calories
Make sure fresh water is always available — even indoors

❤️ The Bottom Line

Cold weather can increase a dog’s caloric and nutritional needs, especially for pets who are active, older, or naturally sensitive to cold temperatures. Providing a diet rich in moisture, high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and supportive nutrients can help your dog feel comfortable, energized, and healthy throughout the winter season.

If you’re unsure how to adjust your dog’s diet for winter, your veterinarian or a qualified pet nutrition expert can help guide you based on your dog’s age, breed, lifestyle, and health needs.