GWF Nutrition: Cold Weather Care for Your Dog’s Joints 

Stiff joints and other aches and pains can feel worse for your dog during the colder months, and even a warm home can have cold floors and draughts that you may not have noticed.  
Here are a few ways to help make your dog more comfortable during the colder months, especially if you have an older pet who seems stiffer in the winter. 

Revamp Their Cosy Corner 

Nothing compares to snuggling up in a warm bed on a chilly winter's evening. And because heat rises, a raised bed will help keep your dog off the cold floors and away from draughts. Try to avoid placing it under windows and too close to doors or radiators. 


If your dog struggles to climb into a raised bed a small ramp or ‘stepping block’ may help. Add some warm blankets for extra cosiness and think about investing in some draught excluders for doors and windows. Moving your pet's bed to a warmer room in the house can be a good idea over the winter too. 

Heated Pads 

These can be very useful for dogs who struggle with raised or padded beds. They run on a low voltage and can be left on for long periods of time. The extra warmth can also encourage better blood supply.

  • When choosing an electric heated pad ensure you choose one from a trusted brand with all the relevant safety markings.
  • Make sure it runs off a low voltage supply, usually 12v, and opt for one with a chew resistant power cord to avoid any nasty accidents. 

Wrap Up on Winter Walks 

When you're pulling on your winter woollies, why not do the same for your dog? His very own jumper or coat will do wonders for keeping him warm outside if he's sensitive to the cold. Boots are another way you can protect your pooch from the elements, as well as hazards like anti-freeze and salt crystals.  


Time it Right 

Walks can be really important for your dog physical wellbeing and for giving him the stimulation he needs, as long as it’s not too strenuous or high impact on those joints. However, if it's cold outside, try to plan them nearer to the middle of the day when the temperatures will be a little warmer. It’s also safer than going out after dark when you are less visible to motorists and other pedestrians. 


Weight Management 

Maintaining a healthy weight is really important when it comes to looking after your dog’s joints. Even a short walk each day will help to keep him healthy, even if he is slower than he used to be, as well as the right diet for his age and lifestyle.   


After Walkies 

Movement will get the blood pumping and warm you both up, but don't forget that too much time in extreme cold can also be detrimental. Once you return home from a winter walk, make sure you both dry off and warm up properly. 

A warm bath for your dog is a great way to warm them through, especially if they are wet from romping in the snow or puddle splashing. Pat them dry with a towel or use a hair dryer and they'll be ready for some post walk snuggles. If you have a rug by the fire, even better! 


Give Your Dog's Winter Health a Boost 

During the colder weather joint stiffness can feel more uncomfortable for your dog. A comprehensive joint & muscle supplement added to the daily diet can help to keep your dog active. 
A proper range of nutrients as well as some key active ingredients is what separates the best joint supplements from other simpler supplements. Joint Aid for Dogs includes 32 high quality active ingredients all specifically chosen for the role they play in supporting your dog's joints and muscles. 


Look out for a supplement that provides not only glucosamine but hyaluronic acid or chondroitin too, as these nutrients work best together. Actives like collagen matrix, MSM, omega 3 fatty acids, turmeric extract and black pepper extract are also beneficial.