Making Colder Days Easier for Senior Dogs & Dogs with Arthritis

As the colder weather creeps in, many of us reach for an extra jumper—or three—slip on some cosy socks, and put the kettle on. Our dogs feel the change too—especially seniors and those living with arthritis. Stiff joints can ache a little more in the cold, and the things they usually find easy can suddenly feel harder.

The good news? A few small changes can make a BIG difference to their comfort and happiness. Here are some simple ways to help your dog thrive this winter:

🐾 Keep Them Warm & Cosy

A soft bed in a draft-free spot with cosy blankets or a memory foam mattress gives extra joint support. Thin-coated breeds like sighthounds—and senior dogs in particular—really benefit from a warm coat on chilly walks. Some dogs can wear socks or boots, and non-slip paw socks are perfect for indoors or on dry weather walks.

🐾 Choose Gentle, Low-Impact Enrichment

When it’s frosty outside, long walks aren’t always the best choice. Instead, keep your dog’s mind busy with easy enrichment:

• Sniff games indoors, snuffle mats, snuffle balls, rolled up towel with hidden treats.

• Puzzle feeders, Kongs or Likimats

• Sniffaris in the garden

• Hide treats in their bed or around the living room

• Raise snuffle mats or puzzle feeders on a cushion or low box to prevent your dog from bending or straining their neck or joints.

• Use surfaces like rugs or mats to prevent slipping

• Keep sessions short and at your dog’s pace to avoid overexertion or frustration.

These low impact activities keep their mind active without putting strain on the joints.

🐾Little and Often

Short, gentle walks or a few minutes of stretching help keep joints moving comfortably. Always let your dog decide how much they want to do—some days they’ll be more active than others.

🐾 Make Home Easy to Navigate

Simple adjustments at home go a long way. Non-slip rugs, ramps, or even just moving their bed to a warmer, quieter spot can make everyday life more comfortable for dogs who find the cold tricky.

🐾 Check In With Your Vet

While small adjustments at home can make a big difference, it’s always a good idea to check in with your vet, especially if your dog is senior, has arthritis, or shows any signs of discomfort. A vet can:

• Assess your dog’s joint health and mobility

• Recommend safe exercise routines and low-impact enrichment

• Suggest treatments, supplements, or medications if needed

• Help you spot early signs of arthritis or other age-related issues

🐾 CAM

We’re big supporters of Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), led by Dr Hannah Capon. CAM is a brilliant resource for owners—packed with advice, practical tips, and support for caring for dogs with arthritis. You can find them at www.caninearthritis.co.uk

Final Thoughts

Cold weather doesn’t have to mean sore, uncomfortable days for your dog. With a warm and cosy bed , gentle enrichment, vet visits and a few small home adjustments, you can keep your dog feeling safe, supported, and happy all winter long.

If you’d like to know more, get in touch, or even pop in for a visit, we have free resources and advice available at Hounds Retreat.

At Hounds Retreat, we follow guidance from Canine Arthritis Management (CAM). I’ve also completed their Advocate Level 1 course, which helps me tailor enrichment and care for dogs with arthritis

Here at Hounds Retreat, we specialise in solo, enrichment-based care for sighthounds, rescues, and seniors—because every dog deserves a day that’s tailored to their needs. 💙 www.houndsretreat.com