Why Is Your Dog Eating Less in Winter?

Many dogs naturally eat less in winter because their routine, activity, and appetite change with the season, but it can also signal hydration, digestion, or comfort issues that pet parents should watch. 

During winter, several factors can cause your dog to eat less. Reduced activity due to shorter days and fewer outdoor walks means fewer calories are burned, so your dog may naturally feel less hungry. Some dogs also experience slower metabolism signals, making their hunger cues weaker indoors. Weakened smell and taste perception from cold air or indoor heating can make food seem less appealing. 

Additionally, changes in routine and environment, such as fewer walks or spending more time inside, can affect mood and eating habits. Finally, lower water intake in colder months can lead to mild dehydration, which further dampens appetite.

Is It Normal for Dogs to Eat Less in Winter?

It’s common for dogs’ appetites to shift in colder months if the behaviour is mild and temporary. However, low food intake can also signal underlying issues.

• Common Seasonal Adjustment: Winter can be like a “slow mode” for dogs, less activity = less hunger. 

• Seasonal effect: Occasional reduction in interest can simply be seasonal. 

• Watch for Red Flags: Loss of appetite for more than a couple of days, vomiting, weight loss, or lethargy should prompt a vet check. 

• Age, Breed & Health Matter: Puppies, seniors, or dogs with arthritis or dental issues may behave differently.

How Can You Support Your Dog’s Appetite in Winter?

With the right feeding approach, including tasty, balanced meals and good hydration, you can help your dog eat comfortably throughout the cold season. 

Tips for Winter Feeding:

1. Warm Food Slightly: Lukewarm meals can enhance scent and palatability without harming digestion. 

2. Smaller, Frequent Meals: Divide daily food into smaller portions to make eating more attractive. 

3. Play & Activity: Even short indoor play sessions help stimulate appetite by improving mood and digestion.

4. Check Comfort & Routine: A consistent schedule and cosy feeding spot can reduce stress-linked appetite dips.

How Good Dog™ Food Helps in Winter

Good Dog™ meals are oven-baked with real, high-quality ingredients, designed to support gut health, digestion, and balanced nutrition year-round, which becomes extra helpful when winter slows a dog’s routine.

Benefits of Choosing Good Dog™ 

• Natural Flavour & Palatability: Real chicken, eggs, and wholesome ingredients make each meal more appealing, especially when scents matter more.

• Gentle on Digestion: Oven-baking preserves nutrients and supports smoother digestion even with seasonal appetite changes. 

• Hydration Support: Good formulation absorbs optional added warm water or broth well, making meals heartier and more inviting.

When Should You Worry About Low Appetite?

If your dog refuses food for more than 48 hours, loses weight, shows vomiting/diarrhoea, or becomes lethargic, it’s time to consult a vet. 

Possible Warning Signs:

• Sudden appetite loss that doesn’t improve

• Weight loss despite regular feeding

• Behavioural changes like depression or anxiety

• Digestive issues like repeated vomiting or loose stools

It’s normal for many dogs to eat a bit less in winter due to routine changes, less activity, and seasonal behaviour shifts. However, with mindful hydration, enriched mealtime experience, and nutritionally complete food like Good Dog™, you can support healthy eating habits through the colder months and spot when extra care is needed.