How to Adjust Your Dog's Diet by Season

Many owners feed the same bowl in January as they do in July. For most healthy adult dogs that's fine — but small seasonal tweaks can help prevent weight gain, dehydration and digestive grumbles.

Summer: lighter calories, more water

Hot weather often reduces voluntary activity. If your dog is less active in July than in March, consider dropping daily intake by 5–10% and prioritising hydration with wet food, ice cubes, or simply a second water bowl.

Winter: a small bump for outdoor dogs

Dogs spending real time outdoors in cold weather burn more calories on thermoregulation. A modest calorie bump is often reasonable for working or actively walked dogs in sub-freezing climates. Pets who only step outside to toilet typically do not need this.

Watch the treats

Holiday seasons quietly add extra calories a day. Recalibrate January portions if the festive treats added a layer.