Introduction — why winter changes everything?

 

Winter is a special time for a dog. Not only does the weather change, but also the way a dog's body functions daily. With the arrival of frost, moisture, and shorter days, a dog must use more energy to maintain proper body temperature.

 

That's why many dogs in winter:

• gets tired faster,
• sleeps more,
• more often demands food,
• the dog seeks human closeness and warmth 
• may lose weight despite normal feeding.

 

 

What happens in a dog's body in winter?

 

Animal thermophysiology studies confirm that when temperature drops, several precisely programmed mechanisms activate in a dog:

Shivering thermogenesis — rapid calorie burning

Muscles perform micro-shivers that generate heat. This process is exceptionally energy-consuming.

Non-shivering thermogenesis — brown adipose tissue activity

This is the most efficient way to produce heat. Dogs with little brown adipose tissue (e.g., miniature breeds like maltipoo) quickly get cold and burn more energy.

Increased respiratory system activity

Cold, dry air affects the mucous membranes of a dog's nose. 

 

Increased heart and circulation work

Blood circulates intensively to warm the body.

Altered water balance

Dogs drink less but lose more water, making dehydration easier — especially in active dogs.

 

Why do dogs burn more energy in winter?

 

7 most important reasons

1. Maintaining a constant body temperature

A dog's body must maintain 37.5–39°C regardless of the ambient temperature.

2. Wind and moisture drastically increase heat loss

Wet fur loses its insulating properties.
Wet fur = higher calorie consumption.

3. Moving through snow requires more effort

Even a simple walk becomes more energy-consuming — snow acts as natural resistance.

4. Less light and metabolism

In winter, vitamin D production decreases — the body compensates by increasing metabolic processes.

5. Intense short-term activities

A short, intense run in the snow burns more energy than a long summer walk.

6. Winter "metabolic stress"

The body operates in heat retention mode, which increases fat burning.

7. Seasonal behavior changes

Some dogs become more excited or cuddly in winter — their energy needs also change.

Facts and myths about winter caloric needs

 

✔ Fact: dogs may need 20–40% more energy in winter

This especially applies to dogs:

• active,
• slim,
• small,
• short-haired.

✔ Fact: working dogs burn up to 3 times more energy

 

❌ Myth: Every dog must eat more in winter

Low-activity dogs have tendency to gain weight. 

 

❌ Myth: Thick fur means no energy loss

Fur insulates but does not turn off metabolism.

 

The influence of dog breed on energy requirements

Each breed copes with cold differently.

Breeds that tolerate winter well:

• Huskies
• Malamutes
• Samoyeds
• Australian shepherd — active breed with excellent insulation

Sensitive breeds:

• poodle — has insulation but a fast metabolism
• maltipoo — rapid heat loss
• Jack Russell — small, slim, extremely active
• Cane Corso — large but short-haired

 

Winter activity — the paradox of movement in the frost

 

In winter, many owners shorten walks because it is cold, slippery, or gets dark quickly. This is natural. However, the paradox is that:

📌 dogs burn more energy in winter even during shorter walks.

 

Why?

1. Moving in snow is more energy-consuming

Snow and ice act like resistance training.
Muscles work harder, and the dog tires faster.

 

2. Muscle tension in response to cold

The body involuntarily tenses muscles, which increases calorie consumption.

 

3. Increased respiratory effort

Breathing cold air strains the respiratory tract.

 

4. Short, intense activities

Dogs often run, jump, and roll in the snow in winter — each of these behaviors is intense effort.

 

Winter dog diet — expert step-by-step guide

 

A well-chosen diet in winter is key for the dog to:

• maintains proper weight,
• does not get cold,
• has a strong immune system,
• does not lose energy and joy of life.

Here are the most important nutrition rules for winter:

 

✔ RULE 1: We increase fat

 

Fat is the MOST IMPORTANT ingredient in the winter diet.
Dogs burn it faster than in summer because it is the most efficient fuel for the body.

Good sources of fat:

• salmon
• sardines
• salmon oil
• eggs
• fatty meats (in moderation)

 

✔ RULE 2: We increase protein

 

Muscles work harder in winter.
Therefore, protein intake should be increased by 10–20%.

You will find high-quality protein in:

• turkey meat
• beef
• fish
• eggs
• high-quality high-meat food

If you want to choose the best type of food, be sure to read:
➡ [dry dog food — how to choose the best]

 

✔ RULE 3: We add complex carbohydrates

 

They provide stable energy.

Best winter carbohydrates:

• sweet potatoes
• rice
• oat flakes
• pumpkin
• millet groats

 

✔ RULE 4: Increase meal calories by 10–40%

 

(amount depends on breed, activity, and coat)

 

✔ RULE 5: Dogs need more micronutrients in winter

 

Most important:

• Omega-3
• Vitamin D
• Zinc
• Probiotics
• Antioxidants (winter fruits)

 

✔ RULE 6: Take care of hydrationdehydration

 

In winter dogs drink much less but need more.

You can:

• serve warm water,
• add water to food,
• introduce broths (no salt, no spices).

 

Sample winter menus (5 models for different dog types)

 

Here are specific, ready-made nutrition models tailored to dog type. They are perfect as a practical addition to a premium article.

 

Table: Winter menus for different dog types.

Dog type	Calories in winter	Fat	Protein	Carbohydrates	Recommended products
Small sensitive dog (Maltipoo, Chihuahua, York)	+20–30%	18–22%	28–32%	Sweet potatoes, rice, pumpkin	Turkey, chicken, egg, salmon
Medium active dog (Australian Shepherd, Border Collie)	+20%	20–25%	28–35%	Rice, groats, carrot	Beef, salmon, turkey, fatty fish
Large short-haired dog (Cane Corso, Boxer)	+10–15%	15–20%	26–30%	Rice, sweet potatoes, pumpkin	Beef, turkey, eggs
Very active dog (Jack Russell, terriers)	+30–40%	20–25%	30–35%	Rice, oatmeal	Red meat, offal, fish
Sport/working dog (sled, canicross, bikejoring)	2–3× more	30–40%	32–38%	Complex carbohydrates	Salmon, beef, eggs, fatty meats

 

Fruits in a dog's winter diet — which are best?

Fruits can be a great addition to support immunity.

Best winter fruits:

• Blueberries (antioxidants),
• Cranberry (urinary system),
• Apples (fiber),
• Banana (energy),
• Pear (hydration).

 

Winter treats — which to choose? 

Winter treats should:

• support energy,
• be easy to hold with gloves,
• be high in meat.

Best options:

• Dried meat,
• Natural chews,
• Salmon cubes,
• Energy bars for dogs

 

Dog health in winter (nose, skin, paws, immunity)

 

TABLE: Dog health in winter — symptoms, risks, solutions

 

 

Energy requirement table for dogs in winter

 

The table below shows approximate daily calorie requirements for dogs in winter.
Values apply to healthy dogs of normal weight, without metabolic diseases.

 

 

TOP checklist — winter dog care

(20 key points, perfect for printing)

 

✔ Nutrition

• ☐ Increase calories by 10–40% depending on the dog's needs.
• ☐ Choose high-fat, high-protein foods 
• ☐ Add fats: salmon oil, fatty fish.
• ☐ Provide omega-3 and vitamin D.
• ☐ Provide warm water or broth.
• ☐ Use fruits jas natural immune boosters

 

✔Health and safety

• ☐ Protect paws from salt — balm + winter boots.
• ☐ Check the condition of the nose
• ☐ Watch the skin and coat — heating dries them out.
• ☐ Ensure regular deworming and hygiene.
• ☐ Increase the amount of light in the home (important for mood).

 

✔ Activity

• ☐ Maintain regular walks despite the frost.
• ☐ Shorten walks but increase play intensity.
• ☐ Exercise indoors
• ☐ Provide mental stimulation (scent toys).

 

✔ Comfort and behavior

• ☐ Use clothing for sensitive dogs (e.g. maltipoo, poodle, chihuahua).
• ☐ Pay attention to stress signals — e.g. excessive licking
• ☐ Provide a warm place to rest.
• ☐ Check your dog's weight once a week.

 

 

Most common mistakes by caretakers in winter

 

(and how to easily avoid them)

❌ 1. No diet changes despite frost

➡ Solution: adjust calories + fat + protein.

❌ 2. Overfeeding less active dogs

➡ Tip: check the article [how to slim down a dog without stress].

❌ 3. Lack of paw protection

➡ Salt and ice lead to inflammation and cracks.

❌ 4. Assuming the dog will "manage on its own in winter"

➡ Especially dogs of the poodle breed, maltipoo, Jack Russell    

❌ 5. Too short walks without compensating activity

➡ Solution for dogs lacking activity scent games, indoor training 

❌ 6. Ignoring behaviors that may signal discomfort

❌ 7. Inappropriate treats

 

FAQ — 12 most frequently asked questions about a dog's winter diet

 

1. Does every dog need more calories in winter?

No — it depends on activity, breed, coat, and individual metabolism.

 

2. Should less active dogs also eat more?

No. They usually require body weight monitoring.

 

3. What if a dog loses weight in winter despite normal food intake?

Increase calories by 10–20% and check activity level.

 

4. Is a wet nose in winter a sign of illness?

Not always.

 

5. Can I give fruits in winter?

Yes, but only safe ones.

 

6. Should winter treats be different from summer ones?

Yes.

 

7. Does a dog need supplementation in winter?

Usually yes: omega-3, vitamin D, probiotics.

 

8. Does breed affect energy burning in winter?

Yes. Breeds like Australian Shepherd burn more energy, while breeds like maltipoo get cold faster.

 

9. Can a dog get frostbite on its paws?

Yes — that's why protection is key.

 

10. Do working dogs need to eat much more in winter?

Yes, even 2–3 times more.

 

11. Can a dog have "winter depression"?

Yes — shorter days affect serotonin production.

 

12. Is a dog coat necessary?

For short-haired and small dogs — yes.

 

Summary — winter energy of the dog under the microscope

Winter is a period that significantly changes a dog's energy needs. The body works harder to maintain warmth, immunity, and the proper functioning of all systems. Therefore, a winter diet should be richer, more caloric, fatty, and tailored to the individual needs of each dog.