How to Keep Your Dog Warm & Cosy This Autumn 🐾🍂

Summer is slowly packing its bags, the evenings are getting darker, and before we know it we'll be reaching for our jumpers and slippers again.

But what about our dogs?

That change from warm summer days to cooler autumn mornings and evenings can be a bit of an adjustment for them too. And while some dogs seem perfectly happy whatever the weather throws at them, others can feel the cold much sooner.

So, as we head into autumn, here are a few simple things you can do to help keep your dog warm, comfortable and happy.

Every dog is different

One of the most important things to remember is that there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to keeping a dog warm.

Some dogs have thick, fluffy coats and seem to be completely unfazed by cooler weather. Others, particularly dogs with very fine or short coats, can feel the chill surprisingly quickly.

Age can make a difference too. Puppies and older dogs may need a little extra help staying comfortable, as can dogs who are particularly small, slim or have health conditions that affect how they cope with the cold.

You know your dog best, so keep an eye on their behaviour.

If they're shivering, seeking out warm places, curling themselves into a very tight little ball or generally seeming uncomfortable, they may be telling you that they're feeling chilly.

And let's be honest, some dogs are very good at telling us what they want!

Don't forget about those autumn walks

Cooler weather doesn't necessarily mean your dog needs to stay indoors. Most dogs still need their walks, exercise and all those fascinating autumn smells to investigate.

In fact, some dogs absolutely love the cooler weather.

But if your dog feels the cold, you may need to make a few little adjustments.

A well-fitting coat can be useful for some dogs, particularly on chilly or windy days. Just make sure it fits properly, doesn't restrict movement and is appropriate for your individual dog.

And don't assume that because it's autumn, your dog automatically needs a coat every time they go outside. A mild afternoon and a cold, wet evening are very different things!

It's all about your dog, the weather and how they're coping.

Creating a cosy place to sleep 💤

One of the easiest things you can do is make sure your dog has a warm, comfortable place to settle down.

Dogs spend a lot of time sleeping, so a cosy bed away from draughts can make a huge difference.

You might find that as the weather cools, your dog starts seeking out different places to snooze. Suddenly that sunny summer spot isn't quite as appealing, and the blanket on the sofa becomes their new favourite place.

If your dog likes blankets, keep one handy so they can snuggle underneath when they want to.

And if you've got a dog who loves being warm, a heat mat can be another option to consider.

We've used and sold pet heat mats before, and they're something I particularly like because they can provide a lovely warm spot for a dog who enjoys a bit of extra comfort.

As with anything designed to provide warmth, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and make sure your dog can move away from the heat whenever they want to.

Sometimes all they need is a little warm corner to curl up in.

Watch out for the "autumn temperature trap"

Autumn weather can be unpredictable.

You can leave the house in the morning thinking, "It's freezing!" and by lunchtime wonder why you brought three layers with you.

The same can happen for our dogs.

A chilly morning doesn't necessarily mean the whole day will stay cold, and a sunny afternoon can feel very different from a damp evening.

So rather than relying on the calendar, have a look at the actual weather and think about your individual dog.

And remember that cold isn't the only thing to think about. A dog can still get too warm if they're wearing a thick coat when the temperature rises.

Small changes can make a big difference

You don't need to completely change your dog's routine just because summer is ending.

Often it's the little things that make the biggest difference:

• Give them a warm, draught-free place to sleep.
• Keep an eye on how they're coping with cooler weather.
• Consider an extra layer if your dog genuinely needs one.
• Make sure wet dogs are dried properly after rainy walks.
• Keep blankets or bedding clean, dry and comfortable.
• Let your dog choose when possible — if they want to move away from a heat source, they should always be able to do so.
• Pay attention to changes in their behaviour rather than simply following a seasonal rule.

And perhaps most importantly, don't compare your dog with the dog next door!

One might happily charge through a cold puddle while the other is standing at the door looking at you as if you've personally invented autumn. 😂

Autumn can be a lovely time of year

There are muddy walks, crunchy leaves, chilly mornings and those beautiful golden afternoons.

And yes, there may also be a little more laundry involved!

But with a few simple changes, autumn can be a really lovely season for our dogs.

Keep them comfortable, pay attention to what they're telling you and give them somewhere warm and cosy to curl up after their adventures.

And if you're ever unsure about whether your dog is coping with the changing temperatures, your vet is always the best person to ask for advice specific to your dog.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I think my Whippet has decided that autumn means all blankets belong to him. 🐶😂

Stay cosy!

🐾 Wiggles & Wags