Delhi winters can be surprisingly harsh. Night temperatures often drop to a few degrees, mornings are foggy, and the air quality is at its worst. We wrap ourselves in sweaters and blankets, but many pet parents forget that their dogs feel the cold too, especially puppies, senior dogs and short-haired breeds.
Here is a practical guide to winter care for dogs in Delhi, from what to feed to when to walk.
Which dogs feel the cold most?
Every dog is different, but these dogs need extra care in winter:
- Short-haired breeds such as Labradors with thin coats, Beagles, Dobermans, Pugs and Indian pariah (indie) dogs
- Small breeds such as Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, which lose body heat faster
- Puppies under six months, whose bodies cannot regulate temperature well yet
- Senior dogs and dogs with arthritis, whose joints stiffen in the cold
Thick double-coated breeds like Huskies, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers handle the cold better, but they still need a warm place to sleep.
1. Dress them in a well-fitted dog jacket
A good winter jacket is the easiest way to keep a short-haired or small dog warm on walks. Choose one that covers the chest and belly, fits snugly without restricting movement, and is easy to wash. Take it off indoors so your dog does not overheat. Browse our dog clothing and winter jackets.
2. Give them a warm bed off the floor
Cold marble and tile floors, common in Delhi homes, pull heat out of your dog’s body. Raise the bed off the floor or add a thick mat and blanket. Keep it away from doors and windows where cold air comes in.
3. Adjust walk timings for cold and smog
Avoid very early morning and late night walks, when it is coldest and the fog is thickest. Late morning and afternoon walks are warmer and brighter. On days with very poor air quality, keep walks shorter and add indoor games like tug, fetch in the hallway or puzzle toys.
4. Adjust their diet sensibly
Active dogs burn a little more energy staying warm, but many dogs actually move less in winter. Keep feeding a complete, balanced food suitable for your dog’s age, and watch their weight rather than simply adding extra food. Make sure fresh water is always available; dogs drink less in winter and can become dehydrated.
5. Take care of skin and paws
Dry winter air can cause flaky skin and cracked paw pads. Brush your dog regularly to spread natural oils through the coat. Bathe less often in winter, use a gentle pet shampoo and lukewarm water, and dry your dog completely afterwards, especially thick-coated breeds. Wipe their paws after walks. Find brushes, shampoos and wipes in our grooming essentials.
6. Do not skip grooming
Many pet parents stop grooming in winter, but a matted coat actually traps dampness and does not insulate well. A professional groom keeps the coat clean, untangled and able to do its job. At Sandy’s Friends, our groomers blow-dry every pet fully so they go home warm and dry. See our grooming packages.
7. Watch for signs your dog is too cold
Bring your dog indoors and warm them up if you notice shivering, curling up tightly, lifting paws off the ground, or unusual slowness. If shivering continues or your dog seems weak or confused, contact a vet.
Get your dog winter-ready at Sandy’s Friends
Visit our store in Shahdara, Delhi, or shop online for winter jackets, cosy beds, grooming essentials and quality food from trusted brands. A warm, well-fed and well-groomed dog is a happy dog, all winter long.