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Is it too cold for your dog? Signs to watch out for during winter
Is it too cold for your dog?
Signs to watch out for during winter
Is it too cold for your dog?
Signs to watch out for during winter
Is it too cold for your dog? Signs to watch out for during winter
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Durante l’inverno, le passeggiate restano un momento importante di relazione e benessere per il cane. Dopo diverse settimane di freddo, però, anche uscite brevi possono diventare più impegnative, soprattutto per quei cani che tendono a essere più sensibili alle basse temperature.
Alcuni soggetti – come i cani più anziani, di piccola taglia o con una conformazione particolare – possono disperdere calore più rapidamente e faticare di più a respirare aria fredda e secca. In questi casi, il disagio non sempre è immediato o evidente all’esterno, ma può emergere una volta rientrati in casa.
Toki recommends: If you want to understand how seasonal changes affect your pet's breathing, you can also read our in-depth article on autumn air and coughing in pets.
Signs to watch for after a winter walk
Dogs do not always express discomfort in an obvious way, but there are small signs in their behaviour that are worth paying attention to, especially after exposure to the cold. After a winter walk, be mindful if you notice:
- Shivering or stiffness, particularly in the legs
- Slower pace or reluctance to continue walking
- Heavier or noisier breathing once back in the warmth
- Unusual tiredness, even after a short activity
If these signs persist, it’s helpful to reduce exposure to the cold and help the dog recover calmly, without forcing them.
How to help your dog recover after the cold
Once back inside, small targeted actions help your dog relax and recover more quickly:
- Thoroughly dry the body and paws, especially between the pads, to prevent cooling down and irritation
- Use blankets or soft surfaces, avoiding direct heat sources that could cause stress or dehydration
- Check the paws: salt, ice, or moisture can cause redness or discomfort
- Make sure they have fresh water available: the cold can reduce the urge to drink, but hydration remains essential
- Monitor breathing and behaviour: if you notice laboured breathing, coughing, or unusual tiredness, it’s best to encourage rest and keep an eye on them
- Ensure winter coats or protections are well-fitted, dry, and the right size for future outings
👉 If your dog is elderly, small in size, or has known respiratory sensitivity, these precautions become even more important.
When breathing needs extra support
In some cases, especially after exposure to the cold or in the presence of very dry air, breathing may remain more laboured even after returning inside.
During these delicate moments, offering support can help the dog regain calm and comfort. Having a ready-to-use oxygen kit means you can provide support when breathing seems more difficult, calmly and without adding stress. This is not about replacing the veterinarian's advice, but about supporting the dog in their recovery, especially during the colder months.
Toki recommends: Think of oxygen support as a seasonal resource, to have on hand like an extra blanket during the winter: it’s not always needed, but it’s reassuring to have when the cold challenges your pet’s breathing.
Reducing risk during winter walks
To continue going out during the colder months, without giving up on exercise:
- Choose less rigid times, when your dog’s body is more responsive
- Reduce the duration of walks if the air is dry or the wind intensifies the cold
- Observe the dog, especially after returning, when the body “reacts” to the effort
- Adapt the activity to their actual energy levels, not to those from the previous day
With a bit more attention, winter can remain a season to enjoy together, without overexerting your dog’s body.
In summary
Winter cold is not always a problem, but it can become one if underestimated. Recognising the signs, aiding recovery, and preparing for moments of need is the best way to support your dog during the colder months, with calmness and care. In the next article, we will discuss how winter affects your pet's breathing even indoors, with dry air and domestic heating.
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