Winter can have a significant impact on the body weight of pets, depending on their activity level and environment. Some pets spend more energy maintaining their body temperature in cold weather, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. This can lead to weight loss if their diet is not adapted. However, most pets tend to become more sedentary and less active during winter, which can lead to weight gain.
To keep your pet in good health and at a healthy weight, it's important to monitor its weight regularly and adapt its diet if necessary. If your pet is less active, you can reduce its portions slightly to avoid excessive weight gain. Conversely, if your companion spends a lot of time outdoors or seems to have a bigger appetite, you can adjust his diet by slightly increasing his rations. Take huskies or malamutes, for example, breeds whose individuals love to stay outside for long hours and enjoy winter activities. These dogs normally become more active during the winter months and generally expend more energy than during the summer months, thus increasing their daily caloric requirements. On the contrary, dog breeds whose individuals are less tolerant of cold temperatures will find themselves gaining weight during the winter period, as owners tend to keep outdoor outings to a minimum. For many dogs, these outings are their only source of physical activity. To avoid weight gain, keep walking your dog, even in cold weather, and take the necessary precautions when you go outside, or create active games with your pet indoors, to let him expend his energy!
It's important to consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's diet, to ensure that its specific nutritional requirements are met. What's more, if you notice unusual weight gain or difficulty maintaining a stable weight, talk to your vet, who can give you advice on how to adapt your pet's diet!