Dogs gain weight in the winter thanks to owner reluctance to walk them in the cold weather

Dogs enjoy fewer walks in the winter - because their owners don't like going out in the cold, a study has revealed.

More than half (56 per cent) of owners admit their dogs get less exercise when the temperature drops due to their reluctance to venture outside.

Alarmingly, one in six admitted they pray for grim weather so they have an excuse to avoid taking their dog for a stroll.

As a result, dog owners reckon their pooch gets an hour less exercise every week compared to the summer.