The dogs most at risk of joint pain this winter: breeds, signs and how to help
Key takeaways
- Short-haired breeds and senior dogs are the most vulnerable during the colder months and need a coat.
- Keeping your dog warm during the winter can reduce the risk of osteoarthritis flare-ups.
- What's next: Learn more about the signs of osteoarthritis in dogs and how pet insurance can help you manage vet bills.
The shivering season has well and truly made its mark for the year, with households rugging up with their favourite robe.
But not every member of the household warms up as easily.
Dogs with thin or single-layer coats, like chihuahuas, greyhounds, whippets and other short-haired breeds, struggle to retain heat the same way thick-coated dogs like huskies or malamutes naturally do.
Older dogs are in the same boat, particularly those dealing with osteoarthritis, which vets say can get noticeably worse in the cold without a proper coat.
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"If you couldn't sit in your house and just read a book and not feel cold without putting reasonably warm things on, then your dog is possibly feeling cold too," Director of Veterinary Services, RSPCA Victoria, Dr Melissa Meehan, told nine.com.au.
"We know that the benefit of a coat far outweighs the risk because it can reduce the incidence of disease and osteoarthritis flare-ups to some extent."
Joint pain in dogs: what to look out for
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common conditions in older dogs, but it can be easy to miss.
The signs are often subtle at first, such as a slight stiffness after rest, reluctance to jump up on the couch or a slower pace on the morning walk.
By the time limping sets in, the condition is often already well advanced.
According to PetSure's 2025 Pet Health Monitor, osteoarthritis was the 7th most common issue for dogs of all ages, with the average annual cost for treatment sitting at $823.
A comprehensive pet insurance policy can cover a portion of eligible vet bills for joint and mobility conditions, so if your dog does develop osteoarthritis, you're not facing those costs out of pocket.
However, it's worth noting most insurers won't cover pre-existing conditions, so the earlier you take out a policy, the better protected you'll be.
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