Even in the UAE, cooler winter evenings and stronger AC use can leave pets, especially short-haired breeds and seniors, more sensitive to temperature changes. A warm sleeping spot, a light coat for sensitive breeds, and regular grooming go a long way toward keeping them comfortable.

In my years grooming pets across the UAE, I notice this shift every year around the same time. A regular client’s senior Chihuahua, Bella, came in for her usual trim last winter, and her owner mentioned she’d seemed a bit stiff on morning walks. Nothing dramatic, just slower to get moving than usual. That’s a pattern I see constantly once the evenings start cooling down.

Winter in the UAE doesn’t look like winter elsewhere, but the drop in evening temperatures and the shift from hot days to cool, air-conditioned nights can still catch pets off guard. Short-haired breeds, small dogs, and older pets often feel this shift more than owners expect. A dog that seemed perfectly fine in summer might suddenly seem stiff after a cool evening walk, or a cat might start seeking out warm laundry piles and sunny window spots more than usual. These small behavior changes are usually just pets adjusting, but on the grooming table, they’re often the first sign I flag for owners to keep an eye on.

This guide walks through the best ways to keep your pets safe, warm, and comfortable through the cooler months, the same adjustments that helped Bella get back to her usual pace.

1. Create a Warm Sleeping Area

Just like humans, pets appreciate a comfortable, warm spot to settle into.

• Place your pet’s bed away from drafts, cold tile floors, and air vents.
• Soft blankets or a thermal pet mat can add extra warmth on cooler nights.
• For pets that spend time outdoors, make sure their shelter is insulated, raised off the ground, and shielded from wind.

A well-groomed coat is also a natural insulator. Professional pet grooming in Abu Dhabi can help keep your pet’s fur free of mats and at the right length to retain body heat effectively.

2. Your Pet’s Winter Wardrobe

Not every pet needs clothing, but short-haired breeds, small dogs, and elderly pets can benefit from a light sweater or jacket during cooler evenings.

• Make sure the fit is snug but not tight your pet should move freely and comfortably.
• Avoid damp or wet clothing, since it can actually make a pet colder.
• Remove outdoor clothing once indoors to prevent overheating or skin irritation.

For cats, a well-maintained coat through regular brushing or professional cat grooming in Abu Dhabi often provides enough natural warmth on its own, reducing the need for clothing altogether.

3. Protect Paws from Dry, Cool Surfaces

UAE winters don’t bring snow or ice, but paws can still take a hit cool tile floors, dry outdoor air, and temperature swings between air-conditioned indoors and cooler outdoor evenings can leave paw pads dry or cracked.

• A pet-safe paw balm can help protect against dryness, especially for pets that spend a lot of time on tiled or outdoor surfaces.
• After evening walks, wiping your pet’s paws with a warm, damp cloth helps remove dust and dirt while keeping paw pads comfortable.

4. Adjust Food for the Cooler Months

Pets may naturally have slightly different energy needs as the weather cools.

• If your pet is more active outdoors during pleasant winter weather, keep an eye on their calorie intake so it matches their activity level.
• Indoor pets sometimes become less active in general, so watch for gradual weight gain.
• Always provide balanced meals and fresh water, since AC use indoors can also lead to pets drinking less than usual.

5. Beat the Indoor Boredom with Playtime

Even though UAE winters offer some of the best weather of the year for outdoor time, some pets still spend a lot of time indoors, especially during hot midday hours.

• Interactive toys, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek keep pets mentally engaged.
• Fun idea: Build a simple indoor obstacle course using cushions, tunnels, or cardboard boxes for a low-effort way to keep your pet entertained.

6. Groom Regularly to Maintain Healthy Skin

Increased AC use during winter can dry out indoor air, and that dryness affects pets too.

• Regular grooming helps distribute natural oils and prevents dry, flaky skin.
• Avoid over-bathing, since frequent washing strips away those same protective oils.
• A moisturizing pet shampoo, paired with regular brushing, helps maintain healthy skin and coat circulation.

7. Schedule a Winter Wellness Check-Up

Cooler weather can sometimes worsen joint stiffness or respiratory sensitivity in older pets.

• A seasonal wellness check helps make sure your pet is in good shape heading into the cooler months.
• Your vet can recommend supplements, diet adjustments, or care routines suited to your pet’s age and breed.

Keeping your pet well-groomed also supports comfort during this checkup process, and for less mobile pets, mobile pet grooming in Dubai makes it easy to get essential care right at your doorstep, without the stress of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do pets actually get cold in the UAE during winter?

Yes, especially short-haired breeds, small dogs, and senior pets. While UAE winters are mild compared to colder climates, the drop in evening temperature combined with AC use indoors can still leave sensitive pets uncomfortable.

Do all dogs need a sweater or jacket in winter?

No. Breeds with thick coats usually don’t need extra clothing. It’s mainly short-haired, small, or elderly pets that benefit from a light layer during cooler evenings.

Can dry winter air affect my pet’s skin?

Yes. Increased indoor AC use can dry out the air, which may lead to flaky or itchy skin. Regular grooming and a moisturizing pet shampoo can help manage this.

Should I change my pet’s diet during the UAE winter?

Not drastically, but it’s worth monitoring their activity level and weight, since some pets become more active outdoors while others may move less during the cooler, drier months.

Conclusion

Winter in the UAE doesn’t have to mean discomfort for your pets. With a little attention to warmth, grooming, and routine care, the cooler months can actually be one of the most comfortable times of year for them. Keep their environment cozy, their diet balanced, and their health in check, and remember: always use warm water when bathing your pet, since cold water can be uncomfortable and unnecessary during this season.

After all, the best way to keep your pet comfortable this winter is a mix of practical care and a little extra attention.