Winter Effects on Your Dog’s Weight

Winter Effects on Your Dog’s Weight: Why It Happens and How to Help

Winter can be a challenging season for dogs — from icy walks to long, lazy days indoors. But did you know that cold weather can also affect your dog’s weight? When the snow starts to fall and temperatures drop, many of us notice changes in our dogs — from lower energy to dry skin. One change that can sneak up on pet parents is weight fluctuation. Dogs may gain or lose weight in the winter depending on their activity level, metabolism, and environment.

Understanding these seasonal shifts can help you keep your pup at a healthy weight year-round.

A brisk winter walk can help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

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🐾 Why Dogs May Gain Weight in Winter

• Less activity: Cold weather and shorter days often mean fewer walks, shorter playtimes, and less overall movement.
• Extra calories: Many owners add “comfort foods” or extra treats during the holidays, leading to calorie overload.
• Indoor lounging: More time spent curled up indoors = fewer opportunities to burn energy.
• Warm indoor environments: Heated homes reduce the body’s need to burn calories to stay warm, which can contribute to gradual weight gain.

Weight gain puts stress on the joints and heart, and it can set the stage for obesity-related conditions like diabetes and arthritis.

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🐕 Why Some Dogs Lose Weight in Winter

Not all dogs pack on pounds. Certain dogs may actually lose weight in the colder months:

• Increased calorie burn: Dogs use more energy to stay warm, especially lean breeds or those with short coats.
• Working dogs: Huskies, shepherds, and other active breeds often stay busier in winter and burn more calories.
• Picky eaters: Some dogs eat less when it’s cold or if water intake drops.

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⚖️ How to Monitor Winter Weight

• Regular weigh-ins: Check your dog’s weight monthly. Even a few pounds matter.
• Body condition score (BCS): Feel your dog’s ribs. You should be able to feel them without pressing hard, but they shouldn’t be sticking out.
• Watch for subtle changes: Struggling to jump onto the couch, a tighter collar, or less stamina on walks may all be signs of weight gain.

For more guidance, see our post on how nutrition impacts your dog’s heart and overall health.

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🍲 Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Weight in Winter

• Adjust meals: If activity drops, slightly reduce calories. If your dog is more active in the cold, they may need an increase.
• Stick to high-quality proteins: Warming proteins like lamb or beef help maintain energy while keeping meals nutrient-dense.
• Hydration matters: Dry indoor air from heaters can cause dehydration, even when dogs don’t seem thirsty. Offer fresh water often, and try moisture-rich options like warm broths, soaked kibble, or goat’s milk.
• Indoor activity: Tug games, puzzle feeders, and short training sessions keep minds sharp and bodies moving.
• Weigh food, not just eyeball: Overestimation is a common cause of weight gain.

You can also browse our dog nutrition articles for more seasonal feeding advice.

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🌷 Spring Check-In

As temperatures rise, re-evaluate your dog’s food portions and exercise routine. Many dogs naturally slim down in spring, so you may need to adjust meals again to prevent unintentional weight loss. Seasonal awareness helps maintain balance throughout the year.

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📚 References

• National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, 2006.
• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. “Pet Obesity Survey Results 2023.” petobesityprevention.org.
• American Veterinary Medical Association. “Winter Pet Safety Tips,” updated 2024.
• American Kennel Club. “Keeping Dogs Healthy in Winter.”

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⚠️ Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary guidance. Every dog is different. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, exercise, or weight management plan.