If you’ve been wondering what to feed dogs in winter, you’re not alone. When temperatures drop, our furry friends burn more energy staying warm, which means their diet and treats may need a seasonal upgrade.

Winter can bring shorter walks, chilly mornings, and lots of cozy nap time indoors. So, knowing what to feed dogs in winter becomes essential for maintaining their energy, immunity, and overall happiness.

Whether it’s after a cold walk, during a rainy day, or just part of your morning routine, here’s your complete Soopa-approved guide to nourishing your dog through the colder months.

1. Why Dogs Need Different Nutrition in Winter

Understanding what to feed dogs in winter starts with knowing why their needs change. Just like humans, dogs use more calories to stay warm in cold weather. Their metabolism can increase by up to 20%, depending on breed and activity level.

Cold air can also dry their skin, dull their coat, and make joints feel stiff — which means nutrition packed with antioxidants, omega-rich oils, and vitamins becomes even more important.

💡 Tip: Dogs who spend lots of time outdoors (like morning or evening walks) will benefit from slightly higher-calorie snacks — ideally natural, low-fat ones that don’t cause weight gain.

2. Morning: Warm Start with Nutrient-Dense Treats

Start your dog’s day strong. After a chilly early walk, your dog needs gentle energy and hydration.
A light breakfast featuring natural ingredients is best — think oats, sweet potato, or pumpkin purée mixed into their kibble.

Pair it with a Soopa Healthy Bite (Banana & Pumpkin or Kale & Apple). These plant-based treats are full of vitamins A, C, and K — perfect for immunity and coat health during cold months.

Soopa Pumpkin & Carrot Dental Sticks

Chewy, natural dental sticks made with pumpkin and carrot to keep teeth clean and tails wagging.

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Soopa Kale & Apple Healthy Bites

Chewy, natural healthy chews made with kale and apple to keep teeth clean and tails wagging.

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Soopa Banana & Peanut Butter Healthy Bites

Chewy, natural healthy chews made with banana and peanut butter to keep teeth clean and tails wagging.

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They’re also great additions to your dog’s morning routine — read our full guide here for creating a daily structure your dog will love.

3. What to Feed Dogs in Winter Afternoons

As the day goes on, indoor dogs often get bored and snacky. This is when owners reach for random treats — but instead, focus on functional nutrition.

During winter afternoons:

• Mix a spoon of plain cooked carrots or peas into their lunch for extra fibre.

• Offer a Soopa Dental Stick mid-day — it satisfies chewing instincts while promoting clean teeth and fresh breath.

• Choose treats rich in beta-carotene, fibre, and coconut oil — all key for digestion and coat shine.

Soopa Pumpkin & Carrot Dental Sticks

Chewy, natural dental sticks made with pumpkin and carrot to keep teeth clean and tails wagging.

Buy Now

What to Feed Dogs in Winter Evenings (Post-Walk)

After a cold, rainy evening walk, dogs often crave comfort and warmth. This is one of the most important times to get what to feed dogs in winter right — especially for joint and immune support.

Feed something that:

• Aids recovery from cold exposure

• Keeps them satisfied overnight

• Is gentle on the stomach

TIP: Combine warm kibble or cooked chicken with a spoonful of pumpkin purée or mashed sweet potato.

Offer a Soopa Sweet Potato Dental Stick afterward — it helps relax them and keeps dental health in check before bedtime.

💡 Bonus Tip: Warm water or a little low-sodium broth poured over kibble can make meals more comforting and help older dogs stay hydrated.

5. Winter Snack Swaps: Smart Treating Habits

Not all snacks are equal — and when thinking about what to feed dogs in winter, smart swapping can prevent weight gain.

Using Soopa’s range helps ensure your dog’s daily calorie intake stays balanced — especially important when walks are shorter due to bad weather.

6. Rainy Day Feeding Tips

When it’s too cold or wet for long walks, dogs burn fewer calories — so slightly reduce meal portions to prevent winter weight gain.

At the same time, increase hydration and mental stimulation:

• Hide Soopa Healthy Bites around the living room for a scent-search game.

• Add a few in a puzzle toy or snuffle mat.

• Offer small “training treats” throughout the day to break up boredom.

This keeps their routine fun and mentally enriching, even when stuck indoors.

7. Foods That Keep Dogs Calm & Happy in Winter

Shorter days can lead to restlessness or anxiety in some dogs. When planning what to feed dogs in winter, calming nutrients matter.

Ingredients like banana, chamomile, and coconut support serotonin production and relaxation.
Soopa’s Banana & Peanut Butter Bites are a gentle, natural option to include in your dog’s evening routine.

💡 Combine feeding with structure — a consistent schedule for waking, walking, feeding, and enrichment keeps dogs balanced year-round.

8. What to Feed Puppies in Winter

Puppies are still building immunity and muscle, so they need extra nutrients during colder months.

Focus on:

• Small, frequent meals

• Puppy-specific treats (like Soopa Puppy Dental Sticks)

• Soft, easy-to-chew textures

Feed slightly warm food to avoid shocking their system after outdoor play. Keep portions consistent, and always reward good behaviour with a small treat after walks or crate time.

9. Common Mistakes When Feeding Dogs in Winter

• Overfeeding due to guilt or boredom.

• Giving fatty “human comfort food.”

• Ignoring hydration — water bowls freeze or go untouched.

•  Skipping oral care — dental health worsens in winter when chewing decreases.

Always keep a steady supply of fresh water, natural treats, and vet-approved snacks on hand.

10. The Soopa Winter Feeding Routine (Sample Schedule)

Final Thoughts

Knowing what to feed dogs in winter is about balance — keeping your dog nourished without overfeeding, maintaining hydration, and adding extra comfort through nutrition.

From their first morning walk to cozy evenings on the couch, your dog’s diet shapes how they feel, move, and connect with you.

And when you use Soopa’s natural, plant-based treats, you’re giving them more than food — you’re supporting a healthy winter lifestyle filled with energy, love, and wagging tails.

FAQs about What to Feed Dogs in Winter

Q: Should dogs eat more in winter?
A: Some active dogs may need 10–20% more calories in cold weather. Monitor weight and adjust as needed.

Q: What are the best treats for dogs in winter?
A: Natural, low-fat treats with fibre and vitamins like Soopa Healthy Bites and Soopa Dental Sticks are ideal.

Q: Can I feed my dog warm food in winter?
A: Yes! Slightly warmed meals or broth-moistened kibble are comforting and improve digestion.

Q: How do I know if my dog is eating enough?
A: Check for visible ribs (too thin) or lack of waist (too heavy). Adjust treats and portion size accordingly.

Q: Can puppies eat the same food as adults in winter?
A: Puppies need softer, higher-protein meals and puppy-safe treats like Soopa Puppy Dental Sticks.