To us, winter, the new year, and cold weather mean cozy sweaters, cuddling on the couch with our furry friends, and a comfortable vibe all around. What could be better? But what you might not know is that in these chilly winter months, your dog faces new challenges that can be hard to spot if you're not keeping an eye out for them. Dogs often experience dry skin, stiff joints, low immunity, and reduced activity in winter. Creating new routines to make sure your dog stays healthy during the chilly season is crucial, and it makes you feel healthier, too. Here is the ultimate winter wellness routine made to guarantee you and your dog stay feeling and looking great during the cold season, and might even beat winter boredom too!
Start From the Inside: Hydration & Nutrition Matter More in Winter
Dogs drink significantly less water in the winter months. Dogs have an instinct to drink water when they are hot. When dogs are panting from hot temperatures or losing water from activity, they have an instinct to rehydrate by drinking water. But in the winter, the opposite happens. Cooler weather means the “drink water” trigger isn't being sent to dogs' brains. This, combined with reduced activity in winter months, might make your dog drink less water, leading to dehydration.
There are many easy fixes to encourage your dog to drink water and ensure they stay hydrated. Try giving your dog a bowl of slightly warmed Brutus Bone Broth as an extra hydration boost. Another fast fix for dehydrated dogs is Goat Milk by Brutus Broth. Goat Milk by Brutus Broth is over 85% water and naturally lactose-free. Adding Goat Milk to your dog's kibble entices them to eat and is a great hydration booster when you're worried they might not be getting enough water.
Support Joints & Mobility
It might seem tricky for you and your dog to get enough outdoor exercise when it's chilly. But cold weather is often associated with joint stiffness in dogs, and long-term inactivity can lead to weight gain and other health concerns. Finding the balance between outdoor winter activities and ensuring your dog stays safe will keep your dog healthy all winter long.
Dogs experience stiffer joints in cold weather, especially dogs with preexisting joint issues and aging dogs. Ensuring your dog's diet supports their joints is especially important in winter. Brutus Bone Broth is formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin to help your dog's hip and joints. Adding a little Brutus Bone Broth to your dog's meals helps ensure their joints stay healthy throughout winter.
Finding time to go for outdoor walks and play fetch when there's no ice on the ground is a great way to keep your dog active, but it's very important know the signs of cold intolerance in your pets when outside in cold weather. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Shivering
- Whining, barking
- Tail tucking or hunched posture
- Lifting paws off the ground
- Reluctance to walk
- Sudden anxious behavior
The best rule of thumb: If it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your dog. If you see your dog exhibiting any of these signs, move them to a warm, dry space and monitor them for changes.
Skin, Coat & Paw Protection
Just like how the cold weather makes your skin feel dry, it does the same thing to your dog's skin, coat, and paws. The winter air outside, and even the heated air in your home, has a drying effect on your dog's skin & coat. This can lead to flaky, irritated skin, a dull coat, and even dry, cracked paw pads. Supporting your dog's hydration from the inside out with Brutus Bone Broth and Goat Milk by Brutus Broth can be a game-changer, as your dog's skin and coat need extra attention. Giving your dog regular baths in winter is also a great way to keep their skin and coat from drying out. It's essential to use a dog shampoo without fragrance, and oatmeal-based shampoos are a plus! Try Pride + Groom’s The Sensative One Shampoo for a skin-and-coat reset.
Another important thing to consider in the winter months, if you live in a snowy place, is paw health. Ice and salt on the roads can be extremely harmful to your pet. We recommend using booties when walking your dog in winter, or at least a paw balm for those who refuse to wear shoes outside. It's also a good habit to regularly check your dog's paws for irritants and scratches.
Cozy, Calm & Mentally Stimulated
Winter boredom is real, even for couch-loving pups. We know it's so easy to stay on the couch, cuddled under blankets all day when it's chilly out with your pup, but you both need some mental stimulation to keep living your best life. Make it a goal to go on a health walk every day. This is a longer walk than just quickly letting your dog outside to go to the bathroom. Bundle up yourself and your dog with booties, a coat, and whatever else they might need, and go for a walk outside. Walking, sniffing, and exploring new environments are crucial mental stimulants for dogs, and going for a long walk will help your pup stay calmer throughout the day.
Using an enrichment toy when your dog has pent-up energy, and it's too chilly to play outside for extended periods, is also a way for your dog to get a mental workout while staying warm. Use Brutus Broth’s Enrichment Ball and try out a new recipe to keep your dog entertained for hours on end. Here are some of our favorites:
It's time to reframe winter as a season from couch-rotting and minimal exercise to one of intentional care for both you and your pup. Many of the wellness habits that benefit your pup also benefit you! Finding ways to stay mentally stimulated during indoor time, making sure you get outside at least once a day, and prioritizing hydration will help you feel your best during colder months. It's time to lean into cozy season, but in a way that prioritizes your and your dog's health.