- VEG
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Cold weather doesn’t just affect humans—it’s difficult for older pets, too. As dogs age, they’re prone to arthritis, mobility problems, stiff joints, and risk of injury, especially when the weather turns cold. Think: drafts in the home, snow in their yard, and icy conditions on their walks.
So, learning about cold weather pet safety is key for any dog owner who lives in colder climates, but especially if you have a senior dog. Let’s explore how the cold weather affects older dogs and what you can do to keep your dog more comfortable, safer, and happier.
Cold weather is tough on senior dogs
There are certain factors that affect how well an older dog handles the cold weather. In this section we'll cover:
Arthritis
Circulation and metabolism
Slips and falls
How cold weather affects arthritis in dogs
The meeting place for two bones is at the joint. Cartilage at the end of the bones should be smooth, and fluid between the joints serve to cushion the cartilage and reduce risk of bone-damaging friction. With good joint health, dogs can experience flexibility and mobility with ease.
As dogs age, cartilage can thin out and break down, causing pain and inflammation in the joints. Arthritis is a common reason that dogs suffer from chronic pain.
Did you know that arthritis in dogs worsens in cold temperatures? It’s true. In cold temperature, tissue between a dog’s joints becomes thicker, making it painful to move.
That alone can affect an older dog. But there are other risks aside from joint and mobility issues.
The cold can create slower circulation and sluggish metabolism
As all pets age, they struggle to regulate body temperature. Dogs are more likely to have a problem regulating their temperature, since they tend to leave the house for longer periods of time. Daily walks and days in the yard can challenge an older dog to maintain proper temperature. Learn how cold is too cold for your dog in our blog.
Older dogs experience increased risk of slips and falls in cold weather
Senior pet mobility really takes a hit in cold temperatures, because icy or slippery surfaces are dangerous for aging pets. Muscle pulls and tendon tears happen easily if a dog's legs become splayed while walking on an icy walkway. And brittle bones in older dogs means the risk of a bone fracture or break is higher, so maintaining a safe walking path is key.
If your pet is near icy or snowy conditions, pet booties with gripping material on the soles and paw protection balm or wax are two ways to help protect your pet from. See our blog for more winter pet safety tips.
Signs your senior pet may be struggling in winter
Older pets often show problems with mobility due to arthritis and joint pain, which increases in colder temperatures. Know when your dog is in pain or discomfort by reviewing the signs below.
Some signs your older dog is in pain
Safety and wellness tips for aging dogs in cold weather
When winter rolls around, all is not lost for older dogs. There are ways to help mitigate the pain and discomfort that comes with cold weather. Read on to see how to keep your dog warm in winter, indoors and outside.
How to keep dogs warm indoors in winter
Your dog will spend a lot more time indoors during cold weather. There are a few steps you can take to help minimize discomfort they may be feeling.
Set up warm, orthopedic bedding. Orthopedic beds are comforting for dogs with joint pain and arthritis. They’re designed to minimize stress on joints, which can be a relief after navigating the cold.
Keep dogs off slippery floors. Coming in from a walk can mean that snow and ice are tracked into the home. This can create slippery spots on floor mats and bare floors. Brush off paws and shoes after coming in from inclement weather to avoid slips. Set up thick mats or throw rugs near your home’s entrances.
Encourage gentle indoor activity. Light activity can help maintain a senior dog’s mobility. Don’t stretch them beyond their physical means, but some slow chasing around the living room or a pull toy challenge can help get your dog moving.
Maintain a consistent warm temperature in the home. Fluctuations in heat sources can create additional problems. For arthritic dogs, varying temperatures will affect the fluid that lubricates the joints; making the fluid change from thinner in warmer temperatures to thicker when it’s colder. When joint fluid is thicker, muscles around the joints tighten, creating joint pain and stiffness.
How to keep dogs warm outdoors in winter
Walks, potty breaks, and just a little activity in the brisk air is not bad for your aging dog, but every venture outdoors can be challenging. Here are a few ways you can help your beloved pet stay warm and maybe actually enjoy the outdoors in winter!
Keep outdoor breaks short. A dog may want to find that perfect spot to relieve themselves but in snow and ice, they may have trouble deciding where to go. Gently encourage them to go and bring them indoors soon after.
Bundle up your dog. Pet sweaters, coats, or booties are a necessity in cold weather, even if it’s just a quick trip outside. Hypothermia sets in quicker than you think, and the warmer you keep your pup, the better!
Watch out for winter-weather substances. Be mindful of salts and ice melt products, as well as antifreeze in your driveway and garage. Antifreeze is highly toxic.
VEG emergency vet hospital is open 24 hours to care for dogs and all pets
As your dog ages, you’ll want to set up senior pet checkups with your primary care vet. For emergency and urgent care needs, remember your nearby VEG vet hospital is always open with emergency vet care for dogs and all kinds of pets. Save us to your contacts, and follow us on Instagram for more safety tips.
