Winter weather poses special problems for outdoor dogs. If your dog is housed outdoors make sure they have adequate shelter. Protected from the wind and blowing snow. Bedding should be replaced or renewed frequently and kept dry. Damp bedding does not insulate and wet dogs are more prone to hypothermia and frost bite.

Cold temperatures put increased energy demands on outdoor dogs and caloric intake should be increased to meet the demand. Water intake may drop, but fresh unfrozen water should be offered on a daily basis. If you are using heated water dishes make sure the dog cannot chew the cord. If your dog is shivering, you should provide a warmer housing environment for them. Excercise caution when bringing outdoor animals inside and then putting them back out during cold weather, if you bring an outside dog in make sure you let it acclimate to the cold before putting it outside again. Subjecting dogs to 60 or 70 degree temperature changes rapidly is not good. Take the time to observe your dog in cold weather. Spend a little extra time with them while feeding and stick your hand in the dog house often to make sure it is warm and dry. Cold weather can accentuate health problems and extra care should be given in times of extreme cold.