How to Keep Your Dog Safe, Cozy, and Happy All Winter

The holiday season is bustling with joy, but it can also bring hidden dangers for our furry family members. Many festive foods from chocolate and raisins to onions, xylitol, and even rich gravy can be toxic to dogs. Decorations pose risks too: tinsel and ribbon can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed, glass ornaments can shatter, and dangling light cords can be tempting to chew. Keep treats and décor out of reach, and offer your dog safe alternatives like chew toys or a quiet spot to retreat when excitement runs high. Dogs thrive on routine, yet the holidays often turn their world upside down. Extra visitors, loud gatherings, fireworks, or travel can make even calm pups anxious. To help them cope, stick as closely as possible to their normal feeding and walking schedule, provide a familiar bed or blanket wherever you celebrate, and give them space to decompress if the festivities feel overwhelming.

As winter deepens, keeping your dog warm and cozy is just as important as keeping them calm. A well-fitted coat that covers chest and belly can make chilly walks enjoyable, especially for short-haired or senior dogs, and a waterproof layer helps protect them from snow and rain. Guard their paws against salt and ice with pet-safe balms or booties, and always wipe their feet after outdoor adventures to remove de-icing chemicals. Indoors, provide warmth and comfort with soft blankets, puzzle toys for mental stimulation, and a bed kept off cold floors and away from drafts. Senior pups may appreciate orthopedic bedding for added joint support. With a little preparation and extra care, your dog can stay safe, comfortable, and happy all season long.