Five Cosy Winter Foods That Are Safe And Nourishing For Dogs
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As the winter gusts draw in, there is an increasing importance to prioritise your dogs' health, care and wellbeing, whilst you're bundled up in warm blankets and sipping on hot chocolate, your furry best friend relies on you to keep them comfortable during this chilly season.
Why is this important?
As days become colder and temperatures begin to drop, your dog’s habits and emotions may change. Understanding these seasonal shifts ensures we can provide the correct dog care and nutritional support for their health throughout the winter season.
Routine changes
During winter, dogs may experience changes in daily habits like appetite, water intake and sleeping patterns.
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Tolerance To Cold Differs Between Dogs
All dogs are affected by the cold differently. Factors such as breed, coat type, age, weight, health and other factors can contribute to how well they can cope in colder temperatures.
Increased Joint Stiffness
Colder weather can cause joint issues such as stiffness, joint pain and arthritis, especially seen in senior dogs and those with mobility limits.
Behavioural Changes
Just like humans, dogs can also feel subtle emotional and behavioural changes in winter. They may become clingy and less active, whilst others, especially snow loving breeds will become more active and playful during the winter months.
Winter foods perfect for your pup:
The right food makes a difference to your dogs overall health - so here are nourishing and warming food options:
Winter comfort “Soup”
To name one of the best superfoods that brings warmth and nutrition during winter is its warm and cosy bone broth, served only slightly warm. Thus, helping joint mobility, digesting and gut health, hydration and overall immune functions.
- Bone broth: Rich in collagen, glucosamine, amino acids and essential minerals that aid a dog's overall internal health.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates act as a means of supporting body warmth, digestive health and energy to help dogs feel fully comfortable during more colder months.
- Sweet potato: Naturally sweet and gentle on the gut and contains fibers, vitamins and antioxidants, a perfect base for a meal or nourishing topper.
- Oats: Rich in fiber, healthy fats, and nutrient packed, improving coat and skin health
Protein
Protein is essential during winter as it helps maintain body warmth, muscle strength, supporting their coat, skin, hair, cell repair, immune system and energy levels.
- Turkey (cooked plain): High quality protein that is lean / low fat and provides vitamins and amino acids
- Chicken (cooked plain): Lean Protein source that is gentle on the stomach and contains important vitamins and amino acids
- For a safe, natural way to incorporate it, Puppery offers air-dried, real chicken treats that also support bone health and dental hygiene.
Fiber
As dogs tend to exercise less during winter as a result of being less active, natural fibers promote better digestion, gut health and bowel regularity.
- Carrots: Low calorie source that supports digestion, eye, skin and coat health, that is highly rich in antioxidants and Vitamin A and C.
- Cauliflower: It contains antioxidants and vitamin C and K for immune support and bone health.
Fruits
The winter season is the perfect time to add antioxidants rich fruits that can be used as treats or toppers that support everything from immune health to dental health.
- Blueberries: packed with antioxidants that supports the brain, health and overall immune health
- Apples: Hydrating, low calorie snack that is source of Vitamin A and C which aids digestion
Homemade winter comfort bowl:
- A splash of slightly warm bone broth
- Mashed plain sweet potato
- Lean boiled chicken or turkey
- Steamed carrots or cauliflower
- A few blueberries or small chunks of apples
Paws for final thoughts:
As we deepen into the colder months, adjusting your dog’s winter nutrition becomes essential to help keep them warm, healthy, and comfortable. As paw-rents, you know your pup best, so introduce new foods gradually, monitor how they respond, and stay consistent. Avoid overly seasoned, fatty human foods and keep away from toxic ingredients like chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, avocado, and artificial sweeteners.
By focusing on nutrient-dense, warming foods rich in protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and hydration, you can support your dog’s immune system, joint health, digestion, and even emotional wellbeing. So as you prioritise your own health and wellness this winter, don’t forget to do the same for your furry best friend, because a happy, healthy dog starts from within.