Winter Nutrition: How Your Dog’s Calorie Needs Change in Cold Weather

Written By Arturs Gorenko

In cold months, dogs often burn more energy to maintain body heat — but not every dog needs more food.
Understanding metabolism and body condition score helps you avoid both weight gain and nutrient deficiency.

Dogs Who Need More Calories

  • Outdoor-working dogs

  • Active long-walk dogs

  • Lean or short-coated breeds

  • Puppies during growth

Dogs Who Need the Same or Even Less

  • Indoor dogs with minimal activity

  • Older dogs with slower metabolism

  • Overweight dogs

What to Adjust

  • Increase high-quality proteins for muscle maintenance

  • Slightly increase fats for energy if needed

  • Add omega-3s to support skin and coat

  • Evaluate body condition every 2–3 weeks

A strong understanding of digestive anatomy and nutrient absorption — now easily visualized through advanced VR teaching tools like VETVR Anatomy — helps owners and future veterinarians make the best nutrition decisions for winter health.

Arturs Gorenko
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