🦴 Let’s Talk Tummies: Why Digestive Health Matters More in Winter

As the chilly winds settle in across Aotearoa, our routines shift, and so do our pups’. Just like us, dogs can feel the seasonal changes in their digestion, appetite, and energy levels. So let’s talk tummies, and how to keep your furry friend’s gut happy and healthy through the winter months ❄️🐶

🥶 How Cold Weather Can Affect Your Dog’s Digestion

You might notice your pup slowing down a bit during winter, and not just on walks! Lower temperatures can reduce physical activity, slow digestion, and sometimes lead to changes in appetite. Cold weather can also affect gut motility and hydration levels, especially in older dogs.

Some dogs may feel less inclined to drink cold water, leading to mild dehydration, which can further impact their digestion. Others may experience discomfort from switching between cold outdoor temps and warm indoor heating.

🩺 Signs Your Dog Might Need a Gentler Diet

Every dog is different, but here are a few signs that your pup’s tummy might need a little extra care this season:

• Sudden changes in appetite
  

• Loose stools or constipation
  

• Flatulence or a gurgling belly
  

• Vomiting after eating
  

• Lethargy or disinterest in food puzzles or play
  
  

If you’re noticing these symptoms regularly, a vet check is always the best first step. But for many dogs, small diet tweaks can make a big difference.

🌿 Why Hypoallergenic and Insect Protein Treats Are a Smart Winter Swap

Our hypoallergenic treats, made from Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) protein, are packed with digestible goodness, ideal for sensitive tummies.

🦗 Insect protein is:

• Easy to digest
  

• Naturally rich in amino acids, healthy fats and nutrients
  

• Less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to common proteins like beef or chicken
  

• Sustainable and kind to the planet
  
  

Plus, these treats are vet-reviewed and MPI-approved—so they’re as trustworthy as they are tasty.

🧠 Tummy-Friendly Enrichment Ideas

Winter means fewer long walks, but that doesn’t mean your dog’s brain and belly should go without stimulation! Try:

• Snuffle mats with a few treats on it
  

• Frozen enrichment: freeze our treats in a Kong or bone with dog-safe broth
  

• DIY food games using cardboard boxes or paper rolls
  
  

These activities can help slow down eating and improve digestion while keeping your pup busy and content indoors.

⚖️ Watch the Winter Waistline: Avoid Overfeeding

Less movement + more time indoors = a higher risk of winter weight gain. Here's how to manage it:

• Measure meals with a scoop or scale
  

• Switch to smaller, more frequent meals if digestion is slower
  

• Use treats mindfully—make them count as part of the daily intake
  

• Choose gut-friendly, single-protein treats (like ours!) to reduce digestive stress
  
  

💚 Final Thoughts: A Happy Gut = A Happy Pup

Winter is the perfect time to check in on your dog’s diet and digestion. With a few seasonal adjustments, you can keep things running smoothly -and wagging happily- until spring.

Want to support your pup’s tummy this season?
Explore our gut-friendly, insect-based treats here and give their belly a break (and a boost!).

🐶✨ We’d love to hear how your pup enjoys their winter treats! Share your photos or tips with us on Instagram @little.green.dog or tag us with #LittleGreenDog.