Winter changes many things for our pets in ways we often overlook. Morning walks become shorter, the sun sets earlier, and even the most playful dogs start curling up in their favorite warm spots. As pet parents, we often focus on sweaters, blankets, and warm beds. However, a dog's winter comfort starts with what goes into their bowl.
For many pet parents, the biggest confusion is simple: Should I increase the food? Should I add something warm? What counts as warm food? What supplements are okay? This guide breaks down winter nutrition practically for daily life. No complicated terms, just what your dog truly needs and how services like Zigly help you meet those needs without second-guessing.
Why Do Dogs Need a Different Diet in Winter?
Many dogs change how they use energy in winter. Some stay active, but most slow down. Their bodies work harder to stay warm, which means:
More calories may be needed for certain dogs. Breeds with low body fat or single coats (like Beagles, Dobermans, and Greyhounds) burn more energy trying to maintain body heat. Joint stress increases. Cold weather makes joints stiff. A supportive diet becomes essential for older dogs, large dogs, and breeds prone to arthritis.
Skin becomes dry. Winter air often leads to flaky skin, increased shedding, and dull coats. Diet plays a significant role here.
Understanding these changes helps you create a diet plan that not only fills their stomach but also genuinely supports their winter health.
1. Balance the Calories
A common mistake in winter is increasing food without understanding your dog’s activity level. Some dogs become couch potatoes, while others stay as active as they were in spring.
When to increase calories:
- If your dog is lean or athletic
- If they run, play, or train outdoors regularly
- If they lose weight quickly during winter
When not to increase calories:
- If walks are significantly reduced
- If your dog already gains weight easily
- If they are middle-aged or senior with low activity
A balanced calorie adjustment is ideal. The goal is to maintain a healthy weight not to bulk them up.
2. Warm doesn’t mean hot
It means foods that support digestion and help the body generate steady internal warmth.
What you can add:
- Warm water or bone broth mixed with kibble
- Steamed vegetables like pumpkin, carrots, or beans
- Lightly cooked chicken or eggs (if your dog isn’t allergic)
- High-quality wet food for hydration
Warm meals are particularly helpful for senior dogs who struggle with digestion or appetite in colder weather.
Try Applod’s premium range of wet foods and broths options that are safe, vet-approved, and easy to mix with daily meals. You don’t have to worry about unsafe mixes or low-quality products.
3.Boost Immunity with Natural Additions
Winter often raises the risk of infections, especially in dogs that go out often. Safe, natural immune-boosting foods include:
- Blueberries or apples (small quantities)
- Turmeric in tiny, vet-approved doses
- Omega-rich fish for skin and immunity
- Probiotics for gut health
If your dog is prone to seasonal illness, supplements are even more important.
4. Focus on Joint Health
Cold weather can be hard on joints. Even young dogs that once jumped around may start to slow down.
For winter, joint-supportive nutrients become essential:
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- High-quality protein
Dogs with hip dysplasia, arthritis, or breeds at risk benefit significantly from a winter-specific diet.
Explore prescription diets on Zigly. Early signs can be spotted before they become painful problems.
5. Don’t Ignore Hydration
Most pet parents think hydration is a summer issue. In winter, dogs drink less water because they don’t feel as thirsty. But dehydration silently causes:
- Dull coat
- Dry skin
- Low immunity
- Poor digestion
Tips to keep up hydration:
- Mix warm water into meals
- Add broths
- Incorporate wet food
- Keep water bowls clean and slightly warm
Zigly offers lifestyle bowls and insulated feeders to keep water fresh and appealing to dogs during colder months.This small change can dramatically improve hydration.
6. Keep Their Gut Happy
Winter often slows down digestion. Some dogs get constipation or irregular appetites. A winter-friendly gut plan includes:
- A mix of kibble and wet food
- Lightly cooked veggies
- Probiotics
- High-fiber treats
Healthy digestion leads to better immunity, energy, and coat health.
7.Treats: Choose Wisely
Dogs love treats even more in winter because they crave warmth and comfort. Healthy winter treats include:
- Jerky treats
- Sweet potato cubes
- Dental sticks
- High-protein biscuits
But moderation matters. Treats should never account for more than 10% of daily intake.
Applod’s treat range is curated for safety, freshness, and ingredient transparency. You don’t have to worry about preservatives, unsafe fillers, or misleading labels.
8. Recognize When Your Dog Needs a Vet-Approved Diet
Some dogs need special winter diets due to health issues. If your dog shows these signs, a vet consultation is necessary:
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Low energy each morning
- Excessive shedding or dry patches
- Slower movement
- Frequent stomach issues
- Loss of appetite
Instead of experimenting at home, getting a structured plan from a vet can prevent long-term problems. Zigly’s dependable support: Zigly’s pet care ecosystem combines veterinary guidance, grooming, and pet products all in one place. Whether it’s a quick check-up or a full nutrition consult, you receive everything under the same trusted umbrella.
How Zigly Makes Winter Feeding Effortless
Winter brings enough confusion for pet parents diet shouldn’t add to it. Zigly solves this in several ways:
- Vet-led diet consultations
- Authentic pet food options across dry, wet, freeze-dried, slow-cooked, and prescription diets
- Skin and coat supplements for winter dryness
- Lifestyle bowls and feeders that maintain temperature and hydration
- Home delivery within minutes so you never run out of essentials
- Personalized guidance tailored to your dog’s breed, age, size, and medical history
Instead of searching for answers or making risky assumptions, you receive structured, reliable support designed for your dog’s real needs.
Conclusion
A good winter diet isn’t about feeding more; it’s about feeding smart. When meals are warm, balanced, and support skin, joints, and immunity, your dog can move through winter healthy, energetic, and comfortable.
