When Winter rolls around, suddenly everyone becomes a dog nutrition expert (surprise, surprise). Here’s what actually matters when feeding your dog through the colder months.

 

Myth 1: “Dogs always need more food in Winter”

The truth is - not always. Some fur babies burn more energy staying warm, especially active or outdoor dogs, while others are spending more time curled up on the couch.

The key? Feed the pupper in front of you, not the season.

PMD tip: If your doggo needs a little more fuel, slightly increasing portions or rotating proteins can help support energy levels through Winter. Proteins like beef-based BARF blends should be removed during this period.

 

Myth 2: “Dogs are less hungry in Winter”

This is definitely not true for most doggos

Winter often means:

• More time indoors

• Less exercise

• More “accidentally” ending up in the kitchen

And sometimes what looks like hunger is actually boredom. That’s where enrichment comes in.

PMD tip: Longer-lasting chews like Roo Chops, Goat Horns and Beef Hooves help keep dogs busy without overfeeding.

 

Myth 3: “Raw food is too cold for dogs in Winter”

Not true, but every doggo has preferences (just like hoomans).

Some dogs are perfectly happy eating raw straight from the fridge, while others prefer it slightly warmer.

Try:

• Adding warm bone broth

• Letting meals come to room temperature before serving

But at the dog end of the day, what matters most is the quality of the food, not the temperature of it.

PMD tip: PMD’s BARF range delivers nutrient-dense, real ingredients year-round, Winter included.

 

Myth 4: “Treats don’t matter as much in Winter”

Buh-bow! If anything… they matter more.

With less outdoor activity, dogs need:

• More enrichment

• More engagement

• More chewing

Treaties aren’t just rewards, they’re boredom busters.

PMD tip: Freeze-dried treaties are perfect for training and enrichment, while natural chews help keep busy doggos occupied indoors.

 

Myth 5: “All dogs should eat the same in Winter”

Nope. A working doggo outdoors has very different needs to a couch-loving indoor pup.

Things like breed, age, activity level, environment all play a role. There’s no one-size-fits-all Winter diet.

PMD tip: Rotate proteins, monitor body condition and adjust portions based on your dog’s needs.

 

What Actually Matters in Winter Feeding

Instead of focusing on myths, focus on what actually impacts your doggo:

• Energy balance: Adjust food based on activity and weight changes.

• Nutrient quality: Real, whole ingredients support overall health year-round.

• Enrichment: Treaties and chewing become more important when movement decreases.