Winters feel cozy for us, but our dogs feel the change too. Colder days can make them a little less active, hungrier than usual, or sometimes even low on energy. Their body needs just a bit more warmth and balanced nutrition to stay active, playful and comfortable throughout the season.

So this winter, instead of completely changing their diet, we can simply add a few warm, nourishing, gentle foods to keep them comfortable, healthy, and happy. And trust me, it isn’t complicated—just thoughtful and balanced.

Why Winter Diet Matters

When the temperature drops, your dog’s body works extra to maintain warmth. That means they burn more calories, even while resting. At the same time, winter often brings a few common issues:

• Dry or itchy skin
• Dull coat
• Stiff joints (especially in senior and large-breed dogs)
• Less outdoor playtime results in possible weight gain
• Lower water intake

This is where food can make a difference.

The right winter foods for dogs gives warmth, supports immunity, maintains digestion, and keeps their coat healthy and soft through the season.

Winter-Friendly Foods for Your Dog

—So here are 10 best dog food for winter that you can add to your dog’s diet to keep them warm, happy and full of life:

1. CHICKEN

A simple, warm source of protein that keeps your dog's strength up and supports immunity during colder days. Just boil it and keep it plain–no salt, no masala.

2. EGGS 

Eggs are great for muscle health and they naturally add shine to the coat. A boiled egg or a light, no-oil scrambled one works perfectly.

3. BONE BROTH 

This is something that feels comforting from the inside. It keeps joints healthy and also helps with hydration—especially for senior dogs.

4. SWEET POTATOES

They release energy slowly, which makes them perfect for winter. Boiled and mashed is the easiest way to offer them.

5. CARROTS

A simple and crunchy snack, full of antioxidants that are good for the eyes and boosts immunity. You can steam them or give them raw if your dog enjoys chewing.

6. PUMPKIN 

It is soothing for the stomach. Just a spoon or two mixed into their meal can keep digestion smooth.

7. OATS 

A warm bowl of oats (plain, without sugar or milk) can be really comforting in winter. They’re gentle, filling, and easy on the tummy.

8. FISH (like Salmon or Sardine)

Rich in natural oils that help keep the skin and coat healthy. They are really helpful when winter dryness kicks in.

9. APPLES

A light, sweet, vitamin-rich treat. Just remove the seeds and cut them into small pieces before serving.

10. BANANA 

Provides quick, natural energy—perfect for playful dogs or puppies who stay active even in the cold.

Foods rich in omega fatty acids (like fish, flaxseed, or supplements recommended by a vet) can help reduce dryness, flakiness, and itching. A healthy coat starts from what’s inside the bowl, not just external grooming.

Feeding Tips for Winter

• Serve warm food for dogs in winter, not straight from the fridge—warmth supports digestion and comfort.
• Keep an eye on portion size. Dogs can put on weight faster in winter.
• Make sure they have fresh drinking water, even if they aren’t asking for it.
• If you’re adding something new to the diet, start small and observe how their body responds.

Hydration Matters in Winter

Even though it’s cold, your dog still needs enough water. They may not feel as thirsty, but their body still loses moisture through breathing and digestion. You can encourage hydration by offering warm water or adding a little bone broth to their meals.

What to Avoid

• No spicy, salty, or sugary foods; their system doesn’t process these well.
• Skip fried or packaged snacks, they add unnecessary fat and can upset digestion.
• Never feed chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, raisins—these are harmful and can be toxic for dogs.

Keeping it simple is always safest.

For Senior Dogs

Older dogs may feel joint stiffness more during winters. Warm meals, bone broth, gentle walks, and soft bedding can really help them stay comfortable. Talk to your vet if you notice limping, slow movement, or hesitation in climbing.

A Little Reminder

Every dog is different.

You know your furbaby’s habits, energy, likes, and quirks better than anyone.

So don’t try to add everything at once. Pick one or two foods that feel right and gently include them in their diet. Consistency matters more than variety.

The goal is not to “change” their food.

It’s simply to support their comfort during the colder months—a little warmth, a little nourishment, a little ease.

Just how care should feel.

FAQs

Q: How often should I feed my dog in winter?

— Most dogs can continue with their usual meal schedule, but they may feel hungrier because they use more energy to stay warm. You can slightly increase the portion if they seem more active or are losing weight. Just keep an eye on their overall body condition.

Q: Are fruits safe for dogs in winter?

— Some fruits like apples and bananas are safe in small portions. Just avoid grapes, raisins, and seeds.

Q: Do dogs need more water in winter?

— Yes, even though they may not ask for it. Dogs tend to drink less in cold weather, so make sure fresh water is always available.

Q: Can I give homemade food instead of packaged food in winter?

— Yes, but make sure the meals are balanced. If you are unsure, you can add homemade items (like boiled chicken or veggies) along with their regular food instead of replacing everything.

Why Choose Furever Kare

Feeding the best winter foods for dogs is not just about nutrition—it’s an everyday act of love. Winters can be a little tough on them, but a thoughtful bowl, a warm meal, and a bit of extra care can make all the difference.

And if you’re looking for winter foods for dogs, treats, grooming essentials, or even small comfort accessories that are safe and dependable—Furever Kare keeps it simple for you. We only bring in products that we genuinely trust for our own furbabies, every product here is verified, pet-safe, and chosen with care, so you don’t have to search endlessly or worry about what’s right and what’s not.

So, whenever you feel unsure about what to pick, you can come back to Furever Kare—a place where your furbaby’s comfort is the priority.

Warm meals, warm cuddles, and a warm winter ahead. 🤍🐾