By Sarah Bennett, Certified Animal Nutritionist

Dog Winter Care: Paw Protection, Hypothermia & Indoor Exercise

Winter presents its own set of hazards for dogs: freezing temperatures, icy pavements coated with chemical de-icers, and the persistent risk of antifreeze poisoning (ethylene glycol). Knowing how to protect your dog's paws, recognise hypothermia, and keep them active indoors will help both of you enjoy the colder months safely.

Recognising and Treating Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when a dog's core body temperature drops below 37°C (99°F). It develops faster than many owners realise, particularly in wet conditions, after swimming, or during prolonged exposure to wind and cold.

Mild hypothermia signs: Shivering, whimpering, reluctance to move, cold ears and paws, hunched posture.

Moderate to severe signs: Muscle stiffness, slow or shallow breathing, pale or blue-tinged gums, dilated pupils, extreme lethargy, and eventually loss of consciousness.

First Aid for Hypothermia

1. Move your dog indoors immediately to a warm, dry environment.
2. Wrap them in warm (not hot) blankets or towels. A warm water bottle wrapped in a towel can be placed near — not against — the body.
3. Offer warm (not hot) water or diluted broth if the dog is conscious.
4. Call your vet — even mild cases should be assessed, as hypothermia can mask other injuries or underlying conditions.

Never use a hair dryer or heating pad directly on a hypothermic dog, as rapid rewarming can cause shock. Warming should be gradual.

Paw Care in Winter

A dog's paws are the most vulnerable body part in winter. Road salt, chemical ice-melt compounds (including potentially toxic chloride salts), and freezing temperatures can cause cracking, bleeding, chemical burns, and ingestion of toxic substances through licking.

Road Salt and Ice-Melt Chemicals

Many commercial ice-melt products contain sodium chloride, calcium chloride, or magnesium chloride. These can irritate and chemically burn paw pads and are toxic if ingested in quantity. Always wipe your dog's paws with a damp cloth immediately after winter walks — pay attention to between the toes where ice balls and chemical residue accumulate.

Dog Boots

Dog boots provide the most complete protection from cold, salt, and ice. Introduce them gradually — allow your dog to wear them indoors first so they can adjust. Look for boots with a non-slip sole, adjustable fastening, and waterproof material. Many dogs walk awkwardly at first but adapt quickly with consistent positive reinforcement.

Paw Wax

If your dog refuses boots, paw wax is an excellent alternative. Applied before walks, it creates a protective barrier against ice and de-icers, and moisturises pads that have dried and cracked in cold air. Reapply after every few walks and always wipe paws clean before reapplying.

Which Breeds Need Coats — and Which Don't

Dogs that benefit from coats: Short-coated breeds (Greyhounds, Whippets, Boxers, Dobermanns, Chihuahuas), small and toy breeds, elderly dogs, puppies under 6 months, dogs with health conditions affecting circulation or immunity, and recently clipped or groomed dogs.

Dogs that generally don't need coats: Thick double-coated northern breeds (Siberian Huskies, Malamutes, Samoyeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Golden Retrievers) have evolved for cold climates and their coat provides superior natural insulation. Putting a coat on these breeds can interfere with their thermoregulation and may cause overheating during exercise.

Fit is critical: a coat should cover from the base of the neck to the base of the tail, leaving the legs free and not restricting movement or breathing. Check for chafing under the armpits after each use.

Indoor Exercise Ideas

On very cold or icy days, outdoor exercise may need to be limited or skipped entirely. Keeping dogs mentally and physically stimulated indoors prevents boredom and the destructive behaviour that often follows it.

• Scent work and nose games: Hide treats or a favourite toy around the house for your dog to find. Even 15 minutes of active sniffing is mentally exhausting in the most positive sense, and provides a level of enrichment that physical exercise alone cannot replicate.
• Staircase exercise: Walking up and down stairs is excellent low-impact cardio for most healthy dogs. Use treat lures to build enthusiasm and pace.
• Obedience and trick training: Winter is ideal for consolidating commands or teaching new tricks. Short 5–10 minute training sessions repeated several times a day provide both mental stimulation and valuable bonding time.
• Interactive puzzle feeders: Replace the food bowl with a slow feeder, lick mat, or puzzle toy to make mealtimes mentally engaging.
• Indoor fetch or tug: In hallways or larger rooms, structured games of fetch or tug release energy safely without exposure to icy conditions.

Antifreeze — A Critical Winter Danger

Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is one of the most dangerous toxins dogs and cats can encounter during winter. Its sweet taste makes it attractive to pets, and even tiny amounts can cause rapid, severe kidney failure. If you suspect your dog has contacted or ingested antifreeze, this is a veterinary emergency — call your vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms. Read our full article on Antifreeze Poisoning in Pets for the complete symptom timeline, treatment window, and prevention guidance.

For broader winter pet safety advice, see the AVMA's cold weather pet safety page and the AKC's winter care guide.