Being outside is great for a dog’s physical and mental health. Walking, running, sniffing, are all activities that help keep dogs happy and healthy.
But what should we do when it’s cold outside? When do the risks of spending time outside in the cold with your dog outweigh the benefits?
Let’s look at the dangers associated with cold weather, how cold is too cold for dogs, and how we can still safely enjoy the great outdoors with our dogs in the winter.
Winter is here, and if you’re like me, you’re bundling up in your warmest sweaters and cranking up the heat. But what about our furry friends? Just because dogs have a built-in fur coat doesn’t mean they’re immune to the cold. In fact, many pet owners are shocked to learn their pups can get quite chilly, even indoors!
I’ve been a dog owner for years, and I’ve learned to spot when my pup is feeling the chill. Today I’m sharing these insights so you can keep your four-legged family member comfortable during the colder months.
8 Clear Signs Your Dog Is Feeling Too Cold
1. Shivering or Trembling
Just like humans dogs shiver when they’re cold. This involuntary muscle movement is one of the most obvious signs your dog is chilly. If you notice your pup trembling especially after being outside, it’s definitely time to warm them up.
2. Cold Ears
Here’s a simple test: feel your dog’s ears! Even when the rest of your dog feels warm thanks to their fur, their ears can be a temperature tell-tale. If the edges of their ears feel cold to the touch, your dog is probably feeling the chill.
3. Curling Up in a Ball
When dogs get cold, they’ll try to conserve body heat by curling up into a tight ball. If you notice your pup hunched over with their tail tucked in or curled up tighter than usual, they’re likely trying to keep warm.
4. Slow Movements or Reluctance to Walk
Cold dogs move slowly If your normally energetic pup seems reluctant to walk or is moving at a snail’s pace during your winter walks, the cold might be affecting them They might also try to hide behind or under objects to shelter from the cold.
5. Whining or Barking
Dogs can’t tell us they’re cold with words, so they communicate in other ways. Excessive whining, whimpering, or barking without an obvious cause might be your dog’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m freezing here!”
6. Limping or Lifting Paws
Cold ground can make your dog’s paws uncomfortable. If you notice your dog limping or frequently lifting their paws off the ground during walks, it could be because the surface is too cold for them. Consider getting some dog booties for winter walks!
7. Looking Anxious or Agitated
Cold discomfort can make dogs appear anxious or agitated. They might pace around, seem unable to settle, or display other unusual behaviors when they’re too cold.
8. Extreme Sleepiness or Lethargy
This is the most serious sign and could indicate hypothermia. If your dog seems excessively tired, clumsy, or barely moving, get them warmed up immediately and contact your vet. This is not just regular coldness – it could be life-threatening.
Cold Weather Risks for Dogs
Knowing the dangers of cold weather can help you understand why it’s important to keep your dog warm:
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Hypothermia: This occurs when your dog’s temperature falls below the normal range (101-102.5°F). If it drops to 95-99°F, your dog has hypothermia, which can be fatal if not addressed.
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Frostbite: When it’s very cold, a dog’s body redirects blood to vital organs, leaving extremities like the tail, paws, ears, and nose vulnerable to frostbite. Watch for bright red or black discoloration.
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Illness: Cold weather doesn’t directly cause sickness, but it creates conditions where germs can thrive. Dogs may show symptoms like sneezing, weakness, and discharge from the eyes and nose.
How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs?
Most dogs start to feel uncomfortable when temperatures drop below 45°F. However, this varies based on:
- Breed: Northern breeds like Huskies tolerate cold better than short-haired breeds
- Size: Smaller dogs get colder faster
- Age: Puppies and senior dogs are more sensitive to cold
- Health: Dogs with certain health conditions may feel cold more intensely
A good rule of thumb: if it’s too cold for you to be comfortable outside, even with a coat on, it’s probably too cold for your dog too!
Common Questions About Dogs and Cold Weather
How Do I Know If My Dog Is Cold in the House?
Indoor dogs can get cold too! Look for these signs:
- Seeking warm spots like heater vents or sunny windows
- Cuddling under blankets
- Shivering even indoors
- Avoiding cold floor surfaces like tile
Do Dogs Get Cold at Night?
Absolutely! Some dogs, especially those with thin coats, can get chilly at night when temperatures drop and heating systems might be turned down. If your dog is restless at night or tries to burrow under your covers, they might need an extra blanket of their own.
What Should I Do If My Dog Is Cold?
If you notice signs your dog is cold, here’s what to do:
- Bring them inside immediately if they’re outdoors
- Dry them thoroughly if they’re wet
- Provide warm bedding – an elevated bed keeps them off cold floors
- Consider dog clothing – coats and sweaters aren’t just fashion statements!
- Warm their sleeping area – keep it away from drafts
Protecting Your Dog from Cold Weather
Prevention is always better than cure! Here are some ways to keep your furry friend warm:
- Invest in proper dog clothing for winter walks – coats and booties can make a huge difference
- Limit outdoor time during extreme cold
- Keep your home at a comfortable temperature
- Provide plenty of warm bedding
- Consider moving small animal hutches indoors during winter
- Dry your dog thoroughly after baths or walks in wet weather
- Avoid using hairdryers which can cause dry skin
- Schedule walks during warmer daytime hours rather than early morning or evening
Which Dogs Need Extra Protection from Cold?
Some dogs are more vulnerable to cold than others:
- Short-haired breeds (Chihuahuas, Greyhounds)
- Small dogs (they have less body mass to generate heat)
- Senior dogs (over 7 years old)
- Puppies (they can’t regulate body temperature as well)
- Dogs with health conditions like arthritis or heart disease
When to Be Concerned: Hypothermia Warning Signs
While general coldness can be managed at home, hypothermia requires immediate veterinary attention. Watch for:
- Extreme lethargy
- Stiffness
- Difficulty breathing
- Weak pulse
- Fixed and dilated pupils
- Collapse
If you notice these symptoms, wrap your dog in warm (not hot) blankets and contact your vet immediately.
The Bottom Line on Cold Dogs
Our dogs depend on us to keep them safe and comfortable. While many can handle brief exposure to cold weather, prolonged exposure can lead to discomfort or even dangerous conditions like hypothermia and frostbite.
I’ve learned that it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to cold weather and our pets. If you’re ever unsure if your dog is too cold, assume they are and take steps to warm them up.
Remember, different dogs have different cold tolerances, so what works for one might not work for another. Pay attention to your individual dog’s behavior and needs, and you’ll both enjoy a comfortable winter season together!
How To Keep Dogs Warm in the Cold
Most dogs don’t need help staying warm indoors or when it’s warmer outside. However, a cute dog sweater like the Chilly Dog Camel Alpaca Cable Knit Wool Dog Sweater or dog hoodie like the Frisco® Basic Hoodie, can help dogs with very thin coats stay warm when there’s a slight chill in the air.
Keep in mind, dog sweaters and fleeces won’t provide enough protection when weather conditions become more extreme.
For colder temperatures, bundle your pup in an insulated, windproof, and water-resistant dog coat instead. The Hurtta® Extreme Warmer III is a good option for extremely cold temperatures.
Paws need protection too. Cold temperatures, snow that accumulates between pads, ice, and chemicals used to treat roads and sidewalks all pose a risk to dog paws in the winter.
Look for dog booties that are waterproof, provide traction, and are tough enough to last. Rain boots like the Canada Pooch Waterproof Rain Dog Boots are a comfortable option for milder conditions, but heavier boots like the Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Winter Dog Boots, are better for pups when winter truly sets in.
How Cold Is Too Cold for a Dog Walk?
While broad generalizations are difficult, cold should not become a problem for most dogs until the temperature falls below 45 F, at which point some cold-averse dogs might begin to feel uncomfortable.
When temperatures drop under 32 F, small breed dogs, dogs with thin coats, or very young, old, or sick dogs could be in danger if they spend too much time outdoors.
Once temperatures drop under 20 F, all pet parents need to be aware that their dogs could develop cold-associated health problems like hypothermia or frostbite when outside for extended periods of time.
Of course, most dogs still need to go outside to pee and poop when it’s cold. Usually, they will quickly take care of business so they can get back inside where it’s warm. If the snow is deep, shovel an area close to your door so they don’t have to fight through the snow.
Don’t leave your dog unsupervised outdoors when conditions are extreme. The best way to monitor your dog is to keep a close eye on their behavior. If you notice your dog shivering, acting anxious, whining, slowing down, searching out warm locations, or holding up one or more paws, it’s time to head inside and warm up.
Call your veterinarian if you notice any signs of frostbite or hypothermia, including sluggishness, confusion, severe shivering (which may stop as hypothermia progresses), and parts of the body that appear pale and are cool to the touch.
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Dr. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian, writer, editor, and consultant with years of experience in the fields of veterinary…