How to keep a small dog warm in winter
Small dogs have less body mass to hold onto heat, so cold, wet days hit them harder. A few easy changes make winter much cosier.
On walks
- A well-fitting coat for short-haired, slim, young or older dogs. See what to look for.
- Shorter, more frequent walks in the coldest weeks, timed for the warmest part of the day.
- Be seen in the dark with a light-up collar or clip-on light. Browse our night-walk picks.
- Dry off straight away. Towel the legs, belly and paws when you get home, and check between the toes for grit and salt.
At home
- A raised, cosy bed away from draughts and cold floors. Donut beds with a soft rim are great for curling up. See our bed picks.
- A blanket they can burrow into. Many small dogs love to tuck themselves in.
- Indoor play on wet days: puzzle toys and treat games burn energy without a soggy walk. See our toys and brain games.
Signs your dog is too cold
Shivering, a hunched posture, lifting paws off the ground, slowing down or trying to head home are all signs it’s time to warm up. If your dog seems unusually cold, lethargic or unwell, speak to your vet.
Small-dog coats on eBay
Warm, budget-friendly coats from UK eBay sellers. Measure first (see our sizing guide).
Affiliate links: I may earn a commission from retailers such as Tuff Pets, Pets Calm Down, Your Pet Nutrition, My Anxious Dog and eBay, and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Picks are researched, not tested by Gizzy. Prices and availability are set by the retailer.