Pet Winter Care Guide: Walks, Diet, Hydration & Skin Health Explained

Pet Winter Care Guide

Expert Winter Care Advice from Dr. Synghal Pet Care & Surgery (32+ Years of Experience) 

Winter may look comfortable to us, but for pets it brings major changes inside their body. Cold temperatures affect how they walk, eat, drink water, and even how their skin heals. 

At our clinic, backed by 32+ years of veterinary experience, we see that most winter health problems are not caused by cold alone, but by unchanged routines. When pet parents adjust daily habits correctly, most winter issues can be prevented. 

This guide explains winter care in the exact order it affects your pet’s body—starting with walks and ending with age-specific needs. 

1. Winter Walks: Where Seasonal Care Begins 

Walking is the foundation of your pet’s routine. In winter, wrong walk timing is often the first trigger for health issues like cough, stiffness, or low immunity. 

Cold air and fog affect: 

• Lungs and breathing 

• Joints and muscles 

• Energy levels 

✔ Correct Winter Walking Routine 

• Best time: Sunny midday hours 

• Avoid: Early mornings and late evenings 

• Duration: Shorter walks in colder weather 

• Observe: Stop if your pet shivers, slows down, or looks uncomfortable 

• After walk: Always offer water 

Once walking time is adjusted, the next important factor is how your pet is dressed for those walks. 

2. Winter Clothing: Support Movement, Don’t Restrict It 

Winter clothing should protect during walks, not be worn all day. Overdressing traps moisture and worsens skin problems. 

✔ Clothing Do’s 

• Use breathable fabrics 

• Put jackets 10 minutes before the walk 

• Remove clothing immediately after coming home 

• Provide warm resting spots indoors (beds, mats, rugs) 

✘ Clothing Don’ts 

• No woolens or double layers 

• No tight or loose fits 

• Avoid clothing during daytime warmth 

• Never force clothing on pets 

Proper clothing helps your pet walk comfortably without overheating, which directly affects appetite and digestion. 

3. Winter Diet: Appetite Increases, Activity Reduces 

Cold weather naturally increases hunger while reducing physical activity. If food quantity increases without balance, it leads to: 

• Weight gain 

• Joint strain 

• Reduced mobility 

✔ Balanced Winter Diet Structure 

• Protein (25–35%) 

Maintains muscles and helps retain body heat 

• Carbohydrates (40–55%) 

Oats, rice, dalia, vegetables for steady energy 

• Fats (~15%) 

Fish oil or Omega 3, 6, 9 for insulation and immunity 

• Fibre (5–8%) 

Supports digestion 

• Moisture (~70%) 

Prevents dehydration in winter 

✔ Winter Feeding Tips 

• Slight food increase only if required 

• Avoid overfeeding 

• Maintain vitamin and mineral balance 

• Always consult your vet before major diet changes 

Diet and hydration are closely connected—especially in winter. 

4. Water & Hydration: Less Thirst Doesn’t Mean Less Need 

Many pet parents notice pets drinking less water in winter. This is normal, but it increases the risk of: 

• Dehydration 

• Dry skin 

• Digestive issues 

• Kidney stress 

Why Pets Drink Less in Winter 

• Cooler temperatures reduce thirst 

• Lower activity reduces water loss 

✔ How to Maintain Hydration 

• Offer lukewarm water, not cold 

• Add water to meals 

• Include wet food or broth (dog-safe, properly strained) 

• Keep water bowls clean and accessible 

Proper hydration is essential for healthy skin, which is the next area most affected in winter. 

5. Why Skin Problems Increase in Winter 

Winter skin problems usually start quietly and worsen if ignored. 

Common Causes 

• Dry air reduces skin moisture 

• Natural oils decrease 

• Cold slows skin healing 

• Frequent baths or harsh shampoos 

• Damp or tight winter clothing 

• Poor nutrition or dehydration 

Progression: 

Dryness → Cracks → Infection → Discomfort 

✔ Preventive Skin Care 

• Reduce bathing frequency 

• Use gentle, moisturizing pet shampoos 

• Dry skin folds, paws, armpits, and groin thoroughly 

• Remove sweaters during daytime 

• Daily brushing 

• Ensure adequate protein and healthy fats 

Skin health is strongly influenced by age, which determines how much winter care your pet needs. 

6. Winter Care Changes by Age 

Puppies (0–12 Months) 

• Highest risk of hypothermia 

• Warm food and water 

• No fog exposure 

• Always indoors at night 

• Vaccinations on schedule 

Adult Dogs (1–7 Years) 

• Maintain exercise to prevent weight gain 

• Midday or early-evening walks 

• Clothing outdoors only 

• Regular grooming and paw care 

Senior Dogs (7+ Years) 

• Extra warmth mornings and nights 

• Short, frequent walks 

• Cold worsens arthritis 

• Orthopedic bedding recommended 

• Closer monitoring of appetite and movement 

When to Visit a Vet in Winter 

Consult your veterinarian if you notice: 

• Persistent shivering 

• Cough lasting more than 48 hours 

• Limping or stiffness 

• Loss of appetite 

• Cracked or bleeding skin 

• Foul smell from coat or ears 

Final Advice from Dr. Synghal 

Winter care is not about doing more—it is about doing things in the right order. 

When walks, clothing, diet, hydration, and skin care are aligned, most winter problems never develop. 

Small, informed changes can keep your pet comfortable, active, and healthy throughout winter. 

Quick Takeaway 

• Winter changes how pets walk, eat, drink, and maintain body heat—their routine must change too. 

• Proper walk timing, correct winter clothing, and balanced diet prevent weight gain and joint stress. 

• Pets drink less water in winter, but hydration remains essential for skin, digestion, and immunity. 

• Dry air, reduced moisture, and improper grooming make pets prone to winter skin infections. 

• Age-specific care is crucial—puppies and senior pets need extra protection in colder months. 

• Regular winter health guidance and check-ups at Dr. Synghal Pet Care & Surgery help prevent seasonal illnesses before they become serious. 

🐶🐱 Because a well-adjusted winter routine means a healthier, more comfortable pet.