Category: Winter Tips

As the frost begins to settle on the windowpanes and the morning air takes on that sharp, biting chill, we instinctively reach for our thickest sweaters and woolly socks. But as we bundle up, our thoughts naturally turn to the four-legged family members waiting by the door, tails wagging, ready for their morning trot.

There is a common myth that because dogs wear a fur coat, they are naturally “winter-proof.” While dogs do have natural protection from their fur, that doesn’t mean they’re winter-proof. For our dogs, winter isn’t just about frolicking in the snow; it’s a season that requires extra love, careful preparation, and a little bit of “paw-sitive” intervention to keep them safe.

In this guide, we will explore the emotional and practical sides of winter pet care, ensuring your pup stays as warm as the love they give you every day.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Your Dog’s Cold Tolerance
2. Winter Wardrobe: More Than Just a Fashion Statement
3. The Hidden Dangers of Winter Walks
4. Creating a Cozy Indoor Sanctuary
5. Nutrition and Hydration in Cold Weather
6. Winter Grooming: Why the “Winter Coat” Needs Care
7. FAQs: What Dog Owners Ask Most
8. Conclusion: The Warmest Winter for Your Pup

1. Understanding Your Dog’s Cold Tolerance

Just like humans, every dog feels the cold differently. A thick-coated Siberian Husky will view a snowstorm as a playground, while a short-haired Greyhound or a tiny Chihuahua might start shivering the moment the thermostat dips below 50°F.

Age and health also play a massive role. Senior dogs often suffer from arthritis, which is scientifically proven to be exacerbated by cold, damp weather. If you notice your older dog moving a bit slower or struggling to get up after a nap on a cold floor, they aren’t just “getting old”, they’re feeling the bite of the season.

Key Rule: If it’s too cold for you to stand outside without a coat, it’s likely too cold for your dog to be out for long periods.

2. Winter Wardrobe: More Than Just a Fashion Statement

We often see dogs in sweaters and think they look “cute,” but for many breeds, a winter coat is a necessity.

• Sweaters and Jackets: Look for breathable but insulated fabrics. The coat should cover the dog from the neck to the base of the tail and also protect the belly.
• The Fit Matters: A coat that is too tight can restrict movement and cause chafing, while one that is too loose won’t trap body heat effectively.
• Booties: Many dogs find booties strange at first (expect some high-stepping at first), but they are the best defense against ice shards and toxic de-icing salts.

3. The Hidden Dangers of Winter Walks

Walking in a winter wonderland is magical, but it holds hidden hazards. Antifreeze, often leaked from cars, has a sweet taste that is lethal to dogs even in tiny amounts.

Furthermore, the salt and chemical melts used on driveways can cause painful chemical burns on paw pads. Always keep a towel by the door to wipe down their paws immediately after a walk. This prevents them from licking the chemicals off their feet and keeps their paws from cracking.

4. Creating a Cozy Indoor Sanctuary

When the wind is howling outside, your home should be a bastion of warmth.

• Elevate the Bed: Cold air settles on the floor. If your dog sleeps on a tile or hardwood floor, consider an elevated pet bed or adding an extra layer of blankets.
• Avoid Drafts: Keep your dog’s sleeping area away from drafty doors or uninsulated windows.
• Heat Sources: While we love a roaring fireplace, never leave a dog unattended near one. Space heaters should also be used with caution to prevent accidental tips or burns.

5. Nutrition and Hydration in Cold Weather

Did you know that staying warm burns calories? Some active dogs may need a slight increase in their food intake during winter months to provide the energy needed to regulate body temperature.

However, hydration is the most overlooked factor. Dry winter air can dehydrate dogs just as much as summer heat. Ensure their water bowl is always full and that the water isn’t too cold.

6. Winter Grooming: Why the “Winter Coat” Needs Care

It’s a misconception that you should stop grooming in winter. A matted coat doesn’t insulate well; in fact, mats can trap moisture against the skin, leading to infections or “hot spots.”

Keep their coat brushed and clean. If you give them a bath at home, make sure they are 100% dry before letting them step a paw outside. A damp dog in freezing temperatures is a recipe for hypothermia.

7. FAQs: What Dog Owners Ask Most

Q: How can I tell if my dog is too cold?

A: Look for signs like shivering, whining, anxious behavior, or “turtling” (tucking their tail and hunching their back). If they are lifting their paws off the ground or refusing to walk, it’s time to head inside.

Q: Can dogs get frostbite?

A: Yes. Frostbite usually affects the ears, tail, and paws. If the skin looks pale or gray and feels cold to the touch, contact a vet immediately.

Q: Is it okay to leave my dog in the car during winter?

A: No. Just as a car becomes an oven in summer, it acts like a refrigerator in winter, trapping the cold air and potentially leading to hypothermia.

The Heart of the Matter: Love in Every Degree

At the end of the day, our dogs rely on us for everything. They don’t have the words to tell us their joints ache or that the floor feels like ice under their paws. They simply trust us to know. Taking these extra steps isn’t just about “pet ownership”, it’s about honoring that silent bond and making sure that through every snowfall and freezing night, they feel the warmth of your home and your heart.

When You Can’t Be There to Keep Them Warm

Life doesn’t stop just because the temperature drops. Whether you have a winter business trip or a family emergency, there are times when you can’t be there to tuck them in. That is where we come in.

At New Inn Kennels, we understand that your dog isn’t just a pet; they are your family. Our facility is designed to provide a “home away from home,” with climate-controlled environments that remain comfortable no matter how low the temperature drops. Our staff provides the personalized attention and extra blankets your pup deserves, ensuring they stay warm, happy, and loved until you return.

Planning a winter getaway? Book a cozy stay at New Inn Kennels today and give your dog a vacation of their own

If your dog started coughing this winter, you are not alone, we get a lot of calls about this every year. Cold weather, heaters, dry indoor air, and holiday boarding all show up at the same time, and suddenly everyone is worried their dog “caught something.”

Sometimes the cough is kennel cough (a contagious infection).
Other times, it’s simply the dog’s throat reacting to dry or cold air,  just like humans who start clearing their throat more once the heat turns on.

So how can you tell the difference? Here’s a simple breakdown.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory infection dogs can catch from other dogs in shared environments, boarding, daycare, dog parks, grooming, or training classes.

Typical signs:

• A dry, honking or hacking cough that comes in bursts
• Gagging or retching after coughing
• Mild runny nose or watery eyes
• Dog still acts normal otherwise (eating, playing, wagging)

It usually sounds like the dog is trying to clear something stuck in their throat.

Most healthy dogs recover with rest and vet guidance if needed, but puppies, seniors, and dogs with weak immunity need closer monitoring.

What is Cold Air / Dry Air Throat Irritation?

Not all winter coughing is an infection. Many dogs get a cough or throat irritation because of:

• Breathing in very cold air outdoors
• Dry indoor heat (forced heating dries their airway)
• Dust or air changes during holiday house cleaning
• Pulling on the leash in cold weather (pressure on trachea)

Typical signs of irritation:

• Occasional coughing, not long coughing fits
• Cough often happens after a walk in the cold or first thing indoors
• No nasal discharge, no gagging, no lethargy
• Improves once inside or after drinking water

This is more like the “dry throat” humans get in winter, uncomfortable, but not contagious.

Quick Comparison

Feature	Kennel Cough	Cold / Dry Air Irritation
Cause	Virus or bacteria	Temperature & dry air
Contagious	Yes	No
Cough sound	Persistent, honking	Occasional, mild
Other dogs at risk	Yes	No
Vet required?	Sometimes	Usually no

When to Call a Vet

Contact your vet if your dog…

• Stops eating or drinking
• Has breathing difficulty
• Acts weak or unusually tired
• Has coughing that persists more than a week
• Is a puppy, senior, or has known respiratory issues

Better to call early than wait too long.

Can Dogs Still Board or Attend Daycare If They’re Coughing?

If it’s kennel cough — no. They must stay home until cleared, to protect others.
If it’s just dry-air irritation — boarding is usually fine, but mention it to the facility so they can monitor.

How New Inn Kennels Handles Winter Cough Concerns

At New Inn Kennels, we:

• Require Bordetella and core vaccines
• Monitor dogs for coughing during stay
• Isolate and notify if symptoms are observed
• Maintain sanitized, well-ventilated spaces
• Educate parents on when to rest their dog at home

Our goal isn’t to pretend exposure never happens, it’s to reduce risk and respond responsibly when it does.

Because winter should be cozy, safe, and stress-free, for both you and your dog.

When the weather gets cold, most dog parents focus on sweaters, paw care, and warm beds, but one winter habit often goes unnoticed: dogs drink significantly less water in the colder months.
And when they drink less, their body still loses moisture through breathing, heating systems, and digestion, which makes winter dehydration a real and common issue.

If your dog suddenly isn’t finishing their water bowl the way they do in summer, it’s not unusual, but it is something you should understand and manage.

Why Dogs Naturally Drink Less in Winter

Dogs instinctively drink more when they are hot, panting, or losing fluids through exercise. In winter, the opposite happens:

1) Less heat = less thirst trigger
Cooler air doesn’t cause panting or overheating, so their brain doesn’t send “drink more” signals.

2) Indoor heating dries them out silently
Forced heat systems dry the air,  meaning moisture leaves the body without the dog realizing it.

3) Reduced outdoor activity
Shorter walks and less running means less water loss, but internal hydration still matters.

4) Cold water is less appealing
Just like we prefer warm drinks in winter, some dogs dislike very cold water bowls.

5) Boarding & routine changes
During or after boarding, dogs may drink at different times or less frequently due to schedule shifts or excitement.

The result?
They seem hydrated because they’re not panting, but their body may be operating on a water deficit.

How to Tell If Your Dog Might Be Mildly Dehydrated

Watch for subtle signs like:

• Nose feels unusually dry
• Gums are sticky instead of slick
• Skin doesn’t bounce back quickly when gently lifted
• Dog is more tired than usual
• Harder stools or constipation
• Dandruff or dry winter coat
• Excessive licking of lips or blankets

In winter, dehydration is often slow and silent, not dramatic.

Why Winter Dehydration Matters More Than People Think

Water isn’t just for “thirst.” Dogs need moisture for:

• Joint lubrication (especially important in cold weather stiffness)
• Digestion & bowel regularity
• Kidney and liver function
• Temperature regulation indoors and outdoors
• Cushioning organs during exercise or stress
• Immune function (winter = cough/cold season)

Dogs that are even slightly dehydrated are more likely to show fatigue, digestive upset, and dry coughing, all of which owners often misread as illness instead of hydration.

How to Fix It at Home – Easy, Safe Winter Hydration Tricks

You don’t have to force water. You just have to make water more inviting and add moisture through other sources.

Try these:

✔ Offer lukewarm water, not ice-cold
Dogs drink more when the bowl water is room-temp or slightly warm.

✔ Add water to meals
Mix 2–4 tbsp of warm water or broth into kibble.

✔ Use bone broth or chicken broth (no onion/salt)
A tablespoon in the bowl makes dogs lap up more.

✔ Offer more frequent small water breaks
Many dogs won’t drink a full bowl but will sip more often.

✔ Use wet food or moisture toppers a few days a week
Canned pumpkin, wet food, or hydration toppers work like sponges.

✔ Try a fountain for picky drinkers
Moving water encourages curiosity and intake.

What We Do at New Inn Kennels During Winter Boarding & Daycare

At New Inn Kennels, we know winter dehydration sneaks up easily when dogs are indoors more, so we build hydration into our care:

• Multiple water checks throughout the day
• Fresh, non-chilled water (not left cold from outdoor bowls)
• Monitoring intake and behavior after play
• Warm indoor environment without overheating
• Extra rest breaks so dogs don’t skip drinking due to excitement
• Notifying parents if a boarder shows signs of dehydration

Because hydration isn’t just about a water bowl, it’s about noticing how much disappears from it.

When to See a Vet Instead of Managing at Home

Call your vet if you see:

• Refusal to drink for 24+ hours
• Vomiting or diarrhea with low drinking
• Sunken eyes, weak walking, or collapse
• Thick saliva, pale gums, or heavy panting indoors
• A senior dog showing sudden dehydration signs

Young, healthy dogs bounce back fast once you intervene.
Puppies, seniors, and medical dogs need faster oversight.

The Winter Rule for Dog Parents

Don’t wait for your dog to act thirsty, assume they need help staying hydrated in winter.

The combination of reduced exercise, heated indoor air, and unnoticed body moisture loss makes dehydration one of the top under-discussed winter health issues.

Hydration is prevention, of fatigue, constipation, joint pain, winter colds, and post-boarding stress.

Boarding This Winter? Choose a Place That Watches What You Can’t

Dogs won’t always drink enough on their own, especially in winter. That’s why at New Inn Kennels we don’t just provide water, we monitor hydration as part of our routine care, especially during colder months and after play sessions.

If you need safe winter boarding or daycare where your dog’s comfort, hydration, and recovery are actively monitored, we’d be happy to host them.

Because a good boarding stay should send your dog home happy, calm, and healthy… not silently dehydrated.