Just like humans, dogs too put on ‘winter weight’. The combination of not being able to go outside as often due to bad weather conditions, more treats (especially with the holidays) and the fact that dogs, like all animals, need more calories in the winter just to stay warm, means that by spring if things aren’t done right, you can have one pudgy pooch! However, you can keep your dog’s weight down and still keep him warm just through the proper foods in your pet’s diet.

The fact is that James will need more calories in the winter just to stay warm. In studies done on both huskies and beagles, it was found that both breeds ate more in the winter – usually about 2/3 as much food – in order to keep their body temperature elevated. This is because the body needs the fuel just to keep warm and when temperatures plunge, the food intake must rise. Humans are the same way; we ‘bulk’ up in the winter because we need a few extra calories just to offset the cold.

He Doesn’t All Those Extra Sweets and Treats

It’s important not to use winter as an excuse to be lax about your treats! Dogs should still be discouraged from many human treats, especially candy or those with lots of sugar. Keep the portions of additional cooked food small and try adding some vegetables as well to keep up nutrients and to give balance to the protein and fats. Add only pure foods like cooked meat or vegetables, and avoid things like gravies or mixed foods, and make sure to keep the portions small (about one pound a day is sufficient for even more active dogs). Again, this is dependent upon his size and weight. You will want to adjust if your dog is a Pekingese or a Bull Mastiff. And if your dog isn’t being very active, but spends most of his days indoors, then you probably won’t have to add much more to his diet anyway; but do keep plenty of fresh water on hand because whatever method you use to heat your home is dehydrating.

Winter can mean fun times for your dog, but remember that he will need some extra attention when the snow starts falling. If you have an outdoor dog or one that loves to be outside, it is important to help him bulk up by feeding him the right foods so that he stays warm all winter without turning into the Pillsbury dough boy by spring.

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