When the California air finally turns crisp and the morning grass starts crunching underfoot, we know winter is creeping in—even if our version of “cold” barely counts for folks in Minnesota. But for our Labradors, the change in weather is still something to pay attention to—especially when it comes to their teeth.
We often think about paw protection and warm bedding when the temps drop, but there’s one thing that’s just as important: your Lab’s dental health in colder weather.
The Cold Truth About Winter and Your Lab’s Teeth
Labradors are resilient, joyful, and born for the outdoors. But cold temperatures can affect their teeth and gums in ways we don’t always consider:
- Drinking icy water can cause tooth sensitivity—especially for older dogs or those with existing dental issues.
- Frozen water bowls can crack or chip teeth if dogs try to chew the ice.
- Cold weather inflammation is real—just like humans, dogs with minor gum irritation can experience worse symptoms in chilly air.
Even seemingly harmless habits—like chewing on a stick outside—can have bigger consequences in winter. A piece of wood that’s soft in summer can become brittle and sharp when frozen, increasing the risk of splinters and dental fractures. And those snow-frosted tennis balls? They might be cute, but if left outside overnight, they freeze hard and become more of a dental hazard than a toy.
Don’t Leave the Water Bowl Outside Overnight
Here’s one winter mistake we see too often: leaving the water bowl outside overnight.
Even in Northern California, nighttime temps can dip enough to freeze surface water. Your Lab may go to get a drink in the morning and end up trying to crunch through thin ice or lap up painfully cold water. Worse, if they’re thirsty and frustrated, they might try to chew the edge of the bowl, leading to chipped or fractured teeth.
And let’s be honest—there’s nothing more guilt-inducing than realizing your pup has been waiting by a frozen bowl for you to notice.
Pro tip: Bring their water bowl in at night, or switch to insulated or heated bowls for outdoor runs. If you use metal bowls, those can get too cold too fast. Plastic or ceramic are safer options during winter months.
Also keep in mind that even if the water doesn’t fully freeze, the temperature alone may discourage your Lab from drinking as much as they should. Dehydration can increase plaque buildup and negatively impact gum health, which is another reason to ensure water is always fresh and accessible.
Chewing in Winter: A Hidden Risk
Chewing is essential for dental health, but cold toys or frozen bones can become risky in winter. When Labs gnaw on hard, frozen items, they’re more likely to damage a molar or irritate their gums.
At Bazurto Kennels, we rotate chew toys more frequently in the colder months, avoiding anything that might sit outside overnight. Stick with:
- Rubber or nylon toys stored indoors
- Soft dental chews made for daily use
- Vet-approved rawhide alternatives
Skip the frozen carrots and outdoor bones when temps drop—you can thank us later when your pup avoids an emergency vet trip.
If your Labrador enjoys enrichment games or food puzzles, winter is a great time to bring those indoors. Hide healthy treats in puzzle feeders or frozen peanut butter (in moderation) in safe rubber toys to keep their jaws busy and teeth clean—without the risk of cold damage.
Look for Signs of Cold-Related Dental Discomfort
Keep an eye on your Lab for subtle signs that winter weather might be affecting their mouth:
- Hesitation to chew their usual toys
- Dropping food or eating more slowly
- Pawing at their face or jaw
- Bad breath or visible gum redness
These can all signal discomfort, sensitivity, or early signs of dental disease. The sooner you catch it, the better the outcome. Preventative care isn’t just about brushing and treats—it’s also about reading your dog’s signals.
If you notice anything off, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet—or bring it up during their next wellness exam.
What We Do at Bazurto Kennels
We take winter prep seriously—not just for coats and paws, but for mouths too. Here’s what we do to keep our dogs comfortable when the chill sets in:
- Swap outdoor bowls for indoor water stations
- Inspect teeth weekly (especially for pups in training)
- Avoid icy toys or outdoor chewing
- Keep our feeding area warm and dry
We also use the colder months as a time to reset and reinforce positive dental habits. Short indoor training sessions with treat-based rewards help keep dogs mentally engaged and their teeth stimulated. It’s a win-win for behavior and health.
Because a happy Lab isn’t just warm and well-fed—they’re pain-free, tail-wagging, and ready to smile through any season.
Stay Frosty—But Smart
Winter in California may not bring blizzards, but it brings enough of a chill to require small changes that make a big difference.
So go ahead—take that morning walk, let them romp through the frosty grass, and enjoy the sparkle of a chilly sunrise. Just make sure their water bowl isn’t frozen solid, and their chew toy didn’t sleep outside all night.
Trust us: your Lab’s teeth will thank you.
—From all of us at Bazurto Kennels, stay warm and wag on.
