10 Easy Ways to Keep Your Outside Dog Warm During Winter

Are you worried about your furry friend staying cozy during the cold months? As a dog owner with several outdoor pets myself, I’ve learned that keeping outside dogs warm isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for their health and well-being. When temperatures drop, our canine companions need extra protection, especially those who spend most of their time outdoors.

In this guide I’ll share practical tips and tricks I’ve personally tested to keep my outside dogs warm and comfortable during winter. Whether you’ve got a cold-loving husky or a short-haired breed that shivers at the first snowflake these solutions will help your four-legged friend stay toasty when the mercury drops.

Understanding Your Dog’s Cold Tolerance

Not all dogs handle cold weather the same way. My Saint Bernard loves snow days, while my neighbor’s Chihuahua trembles even on mildly chilly evenings. Before diving into warming solutions, it’s important to understand your specific dog’s cold tolerance.

Dogs that typically handle cold better:

• Labrador Retrievers
• Siberian Huskies
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Border Collies
• Newfoundlands
• Saint Bernards
• Alaskan Malamutes

Dogs that need extra cold protection:

• Bulldogs
• Yorkshire Terriers
• Boxers
• Great Danes
• Shih Tzus
• Boston Terriers
• Chihuahuas

As a general rule, most dogs start feeling uncomfortable when temperatures hit about 32°F, and when it drops to 20°F, you should be watching even cold-tolerant breeds for signs of discomfort Your dog’s coat length is a major factor—thicker, longer coats provide better natural insulation.

Signs Your Dog Is Too Cold

I learned to watch for these warning signs the hard way when my Lab mix got too cold last winter

• Shivering or trembling
• Whining or acting anxious
• Reluctance to continue walking or playing outside
• Lifting paws off the ground repeatedly
• Seeking shelter or trying to go inside
• Lethargy or weakness
• Hunched posture with tail tucked
• Runny or congested nose
• Watery eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Sneezing

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to warm your pup up immediately!

10 Effective Ways to Keep Your Outside Dog Warm

1. Provide Proper Shelter

This is the #1 priority! My outdoor kennels have completely transformed my dogs’ winter experience.

A good dog shelter should:

• Be raised several inches off the ground to prevent cold transfer from the earth
• Have solid walls to block wind and precipitation
• Include a door flap to keep drafts out
• Be just large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down (not too big)
• Have a waterproof roof

I’ve found that insulated dog houses make a HUGE difference. One of my customers shared that her insulated kennel could maintain 80°F inside even when temperatures outside were below zero! If you’re building or buying a dog house, insulation is worth every penny.

2. Use Proper Bedding Materials

Don’t underestimate the power of good bedding! I’ve tried several options:

• Straw: My personal favorite—it’s inexpensive and provides excellent insulation. Unlike hay, it resists moisture and mold.
• Cedar shavings: These smell nice and repel insects, but some dogs may be sensitive.
• Blankets and old quilts: Great options if kept dry and changed regularly.
• Specialized dog bedding: Designed to reflect body heat back to your pet.

Avoid using:

• Regular blankets that stay damp (they can actually make dogs colder)
• Towels that don’t provide enough insulation
• Materials that can cause allergic reactions

I change the bedding in my dogs’ shelters weekly during winter to keep them clean and dry.

3. Add a Heating Source (Safely!)

There are several heating options available, but safety MUST be your priority:

• Heated dog beds: These are designed specifically for pets and maintain a safe temperature.
• Heating pads: Look for pet-specific ones with chew-resistant cords.
• Microwavable heating discs: I use these for my older dog—they stay warm for hours.
• Snuggle Safe Heat Pads: These are what my vet recommends.

NEVER use:

• Space heaters (fire hazard!)
• Regular heating pads designed for humans (too hot)
• Heat lamps unless they’re specifically designed for kennels and securely mounted

One of my favorite solutions is a K&H heated dog bed that activates when your pet lies on it, keeping energy costs down while providing warmth only when needed.

4. Protect Your Dog’s Paws

After walking my dogs on treated sidewalks last winter, I noticed them licking their paws obsessively—the chemical ice melts were irritating their skin! Now I always:

• Apply pet-safe paw wax before walks
• Wash and dry their paws when we return inside
• Check for cracks or bleeding
• Use dog booties on extremely cold days

This not only prevents discomfort but also stops them from ingesting harmful chemicals when they lick their paws clean.

5. Increase Food Intake

Did you know dogs burn more calories staying warm in winter? I increase my outdoor dogs’ food intake by about 10-15% during cold months. Focus on:

• Higher protein content
• Healthy fats
• Regular feeding schedule

Just like we need more calories for winter activities, your dog’s body uses extra energy to maintain body temperature in cold conditions.

6. Ensure Access to Unfrozen Water

This is something I struggled with until investing in heated water bowls. Dogs can’t stay warm if they’re dehydrated! Options include:

• Electric heated water bowls (my preferred solution)
• Checking and replacing water multiple times daily
• Using deeper bowls that take longer to freeze
• Placing water bowls in sheltered locations

Dehydration is a serious winter risk that many owners overlook.

7. Consider Dog Clothing

I was skeptical about dog coats until I saw how much my short-haired pointer benefited! If your dog tolerates clothing, consider:

• Insulated dog jackets for walks
• Waterproof options for wet conditions
• Dog sweaters for milder days
• Vest-style coats that cover the chest and abdomen

Make sure any clothing fits properly without restricting movement and that your dog can still relieve themselves comfortably.

8. Create Windbreaks

My kennels are positioned with the openings away from prevailing winds, but I also added:

• Straw bales around the kennel perimeter
• Temporary plywood barriers on the windward side
• Strategic placement near buildings or natural barriers

Wind chill can make temperatures feel significantly colder, so blocking those gusty breezes makes a big difference.

9. Winter Grooming Considerations

Contrary to what some believe, you shouldn’t shave your dog in winter! Instead:

• Keep coats clean (dirty fur loses insulating properties)
• Remove mats and tangles that can collect ice
• Trim only when necessary for hygiene
• Dry your dog thoroughly after baths or snow play

I brush my long-haired dogs more frequently in winter to prevent uncomfortable mats that can pull on their skin and reduce insulation.

10. Allow Indoor Access During Extreme Weather

Even dedicated “outside dogs” should come inside during extreme conditions. In my home, the garage becomes dog central during severe weather. If that’s not possible:

• Create a sheltered area in a barn or outbuilding
• Consider installing a dog door for access to a mudroom or garage
• Arrange for pet sitting or boarding during dangerous weather events

No dog should be left outside in truly extreme conditions, regardless of breed.

Special Considerations for Senior or Young Dogs

My 12-year-old Lab mix needs extra warmth compared to my younger dogs. Age affects cold tolerance:

• Puppies have trouble regulating body temperature
• Senior dogs often have less body fat and muscle mass
• Dogs with arthritis or joint issues suffer more in cold weather
• Very small dogs lose body heat more quickly

For these vulnerable pups, consider bringing them inside more often or providing additional heating sources.

DIY Dog House Insulation Ideas I’ve Tried

When I first started keeping dogs outside, I couldn’t afford fancy heated kennels, so I tried these budget-friendly insulation methods:

• Lining the walls with foam board insulation (covered with wood to prevent chewing)
• Creating a double-wall system with a gap filled with insulating material
• Using old carpet on the floor beneath bedding
• Adding a “ceiling” below the roof to create an insulating air pocket
• Installing a pet door flap using heavy rubber matting

These simple modifications made my dogs’ houses significantly warmer without breaking the bank.

The Bottom Line: Keep Watching Your Dog

The most important thing I’ve learned over years of keeping outside dogs is to observe them carefully. What works for one dog might not work for another, and conditions change throughout the winter season.

I check on my outside dogs frequently during cold weather and adjust their setup based on their behavior and comfort level. Some nights, even my cold-tolerant breeds come inside when temperatures are extremely low.

Your dog depends on you to make good decisions about their welfare, so be attentive and responsive to their needs. With proper shelter, appropriate warming techniques, and careful monitoring, your outside dog can stay comfortable even when the weather outside is frightful!

Remember: If you’re ever in doubt about your dog’s ability to handle the cold, err on the side of caution and bring them inside. No doghouse is as warm as your living room!

What tips have you found helpful for keeping your outside dog warm? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments!

There isn’t a single “too cold” temperature for all dogs, as it depends heavily on the breed, size, age, coat, and health of the dog, but temperatures below 45°F (7°C) can be risky for many dogs. Small, short-haired, elderly, and sick dogs are more vulnerable and should have very limited outdoor exposure in cold weather, especially below 32°F (0°C).

Outdoor animals are cold! Easy DIY outdoor shelter

The warmest bedding for outdoor dogs is clean, dry straw, as it effectively traps heat and provides excellent insulation. Other options include wood shavings, which can absorb moisture and repel bugs, but straw is preferred for its superior insulating properties and breathability.