How to Keep Your Pet Warm and Safe During Winters

I’m from northern Minnesota here and that means easily -30 degrees fahrenheit in the winters. But I’ve noticed when you offer your pet the opportunity to go in or outside. They usually don’t just sit outside and freeze to death lol. In fact, they never do. We took on my SO’s grandma’s dog with my only stipulation was that he HAD to use the doggy door. Little dog figure it out. Adores it. And there has never been a problem. So, yeah, he’s a part of the family.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

Even though Aussie winters aren’t as brutal as they are in other parts of the world, the cold can still sneak up on us. It’s not just us reaching for extra layers or hovering near the heater—our pets feel it too. 

Whether you’ve got a cat that loves curling up on a warm laptop or a dog who suddenly refuses to step outside, the chilly months can throw them off.

So how do you help them stay warm, safe, and happy when the temperatures drop? Let’s walk through some down-to-earth ways to make winter easier on your furry friends.

Some Pets Feel It More Than Others

Just like people, some pets handle the cold better than others. A fluffy border collie with a thick double coat might not mind the brisk air, while a short-haired greyhound could be shivering the moment they step outside. 

Age plays a role too—older animals, puppies, kittens, and those with medical issues tend to feel the cold more.

You know your pet best. If they’re acting differently—moving slower, curling tighter in their bed, or constantly seeking heat—it might be time to change things up.

Warm Up Their Sleeping Space

Start by checking where your pet sleeps. Is it near a draughty door or on a tiled floor that gets icy overnight? Try moving their bed to a warmer part of the house. A soft, raised bed with a thick blanket or even an old jumper you’ve worn (they love your smell) can do wonders. 

Make sure it’s not right in front of a heater or fireplace though—too close can be dangerous.

For pets that sleep outside, extra care is needed. Their shelter should be waterproof, windproof, and off the groun. Straw makes good bedding, and thick covers over the entrance can help block the breeze. 

If it gets really cold, it’s worth bringing them indoors at night—even just into the laundry or garage.

Walks Are Still Important—Just Time Them Right

Even in the middle of winter, dogs still need to stretch their legs. Skipping walks entirely usually does more harm than good. But that doesn’t mean dragging them out first thing in the freezing cold.

If you can, aim for a stroll later in the morning or early afternoon—once things have warmed up a bit. That’s usually when the weather’s closest to the ideal temperature for your pet, especially if they’re a bit sensitive to the cold. Every dog’s different, so watch how they react.

And on wet days? Keep it short and sweet. Chuck on a doggy jumper if needed, avoid puddles, and towel them off as soon as you’re home—especially the paws and belly.

Know the Signs They’re Too Cold

Pets can’t tell us when they’re freezing, but they usually show it in little ways. You might notice your cat curling into tighter balls, or your dog becoming clingier than usual. Some might shiver or even act a bit grumpy. 

Others retreat to odd places—like under beds or behind furniture—where it’s warmer and quiet.

If you think your pet’s struggling with the cold, take it seriously. A bit of extra warmth could make all the difference.

Outdoor Animals Need Extra Attention

Backyard pets—whether it’s dogs, rabbits, chickens, or guinea pigs—still need regular checks in winter.  Wind and rain can be a real problem, especially if their enclosures aren’t properly insulated. Make sure hutches and kennels stay dry and out of the wind. Line floors with straw or shredded paper and keep food and water in sheltered spots. 

In some places, water bowls can even ice over, so check them daily. If it’s particularly cold overnight, consider moving hutches into a shed or sheltered spot to keep the worst of the weather off them.

Food, Water, and What to Watch For

Pets often burn more energy staying warm, so don’t be surprised if they seem hungrier. Make sure they’re getting enough food—but don’t overdo it if they’re moving less. The goal is to keep them healthy, not heavier.

Also, keep an eye on their water. Some pets drink less in winter, especially if the water is icy cold. Try topping up their bowls more often with room-temp water, and maybe move their bowl out of draughty areas.

Don’t Ditch the Grooming

It might be tempting to let grooming slide during winter, especially for long-haired pets. But regular brushing actually helps with warmth—it gets rid of loose hair and improves circulation.

Just avoid giving too many baths during colder months. Over-washing can strip their skin’s natural oils and make them more prone to getting cold. If you need to bathe them, make sure they’re properly dried and warm afterwards.

Be Careful with Heaters

It’s no surprise that pets love curling up near a heater on a cold night—but they don’t always know when they’re too close. If your dog or cat tends to sprawl right in front of the heat, keep an eye on them, just to be safe. 

And never leave portable heaters or electric blankets running when no one’s around.

For homes with fireplaces or wood burners, a fireguard is a must—especially if you’ve got a curious pup or a clumsy tail-wagger. Make sure your pet has space to move away if it gets too warm.

And if you’re using heaters often during winter, you might want to look at an energy-efficient option. It won’t just keep your power bills in check—it’s better for the planet too.

Bored Pets = Troubled Pets

When it’s cold outside, pets might spend more time indoors. For active animals, that can lead to boredom. And boredom often turns into chewing things they shouldn’t or waking you up at 3 a.m.

Puzzle feeders, indoor games, or even a few extra training sessions each day can keep their minds busy. Cats, in particular, love a good cardboard box or a paper bag to play in. It doesn’t have to be expensive—just interesting.

Simple Care, Big Comfort

At the end of the day, winter pet care is mostly about paying attention. If your pet seems uncomfortable, adjust their routine. Give them somewhere warm to sleep, keep their water fresh, and make sure they’re still getting enough stimulation.

You don’t need fancy gadgets or heated pet beds to do the right thing. A little common sense and a bit of extra care go a long way.  And let’s be honest—there’s something lovely about sharing a quiet, warm evening with a pet snoozing beside you while the rain taps on the window.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)