You can tell when looking at them that some dogs are made for cold weather. Siberian huskies, Malamutes, and St. Bernards bark with glee, "Bring on the cold and snow!" Their coats are made with dense, warm hair that keeps them naturally insulated. But other breeds are likely shivering at the mere thought of going outside when the snow starts to swirl.
The cold isn't just uncomfortable for some dogs in winter. It can be downright dangerous. That's why as temperatures drop, it's important to take safety precautions for your dog.
How Much Time Should My Dog Spend Outside?
Overexposure to the cold is just as dangerous to dogs as it is to humans. Just because they have a winter fur coat does not mean that they are not susceptible to the same cold-weather sicknesses and injuries that can afflict humans. Spending too much time out in the cold can be hazardous to their health so it is important to limit their time outdoors during sub-freezing temperatures. This doesn't mean that your dog shouldn't spend time out in the snow and cold beyond potty breaks. In fact, watching a dog prance around in the snow can be one of the greatest joys for a dog parent. Throwing snowballs and watching your dog try and fetch them can help him get the exercise that he needs to keep the winter weight off, but as you start to get cold outside, he is probably also starting to feel the chill.
If you have an outdoor playpen or dog house for your dog that he uses during the summer months, make sure to bring him inside after brief periods outside. Never leave him outside overnight. If he is used to spending more time outdoors, then you can set up an area in the garage to help keep him warm. If he does spend any amount of time in his dog house make sure to leave him blankets or towels to snuggle up in, and change them out each day as they get cold. It is also probably a good idea to invest in some warming lamps to help keep the dog house's temperature regulated.
A wintery outdoors is nothing to shy away from for your dog, but just as you would with children, make sure they come inside after so long to prevent any health issues like those listed below.
How Can I Tell if My Dog is Too Cold?
The most obvious sign a dog is cold is shivering, the body's natural way to generate heat. Other common indications that your dog might be suffering from the cold include an unwillingness to go outside, slow and clumsy movements caused by cold joints and muscles, and less energy than normal.
Some dogs are less tolerant of the cold than others. Petcha explains that body fat, size, age, coat, and overall health affect your dog's tolerance of the cold. That's why tiny Chihuahuas and lean greyhounds, for example, aren't well-suited for a frigid blast.
Tasty Tips
What Do I Do If Hypothermia Sets In?
It's important to pay attention to whether your dog is cold. Despite their furry coats, dogs can suffer from life-threatening issues like hypothermia and frostbite if they're left in the cold for too long.
Common symptoms that indicate your dog might have hypothermia are intense shivering, listlessness, and frostbite. Frostbite on dogs most often occurs on exposed areas, such as the tail, tips of the ears, scrotum, and foot pads. You can tell if your dog has frostbite because the affected skin becomes very pale with a bluish/white hue that is due to a lack of blood flow, explains PetMD.
If your dog is suffering from hypothermia, it's important to act quickly to prevent serious illness or even death. PetMD advises taking these steps:
- Bring him inside
- Wrap him in blankets warmed in a dryer or on a radiator
- Call your veterinarian and get him in to see them. They will check him to ensure that there aren't any lasting effects or other problems like frostbite.
How Can I Keep My Dog Warm Outside?
If you have a dog with shorter hair, whether it's naturally short or it's styled that way, a sweater or jacket might give him some comfort in the cold, just like a coat does for you. Perhaps consider no-slip booties for your dog. Ice and snow can easily accumulate in your dog's pads, which may result in frostbite. When he comes inside, make sure to dry any accumulated snow from his body as it can sometimes mat within his fur. This will help him warm up more easily.
Dogs in winter don't have to be miserable. Keeping your dog comfortable in cold weather will make him excited to play with you in the winter wonderland. Now go fetch some snowballs!
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Entrée Can Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Turkey & Rice Stew dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew Can Variety Pack Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Beef & Zucchini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free dry dog food is gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Barley Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Related articles
Is My Dog Really Watching TV?
Discover if your dog is actually interested in watching TV, how to pick something you'll both like and the science behind some dogs' TV preferences.
Is Soda Bad for My Dog?
Learn why soda is a treat to avoid giving your dog, including issues with caffeine & artificial sweeteners, as well as the best alternative for your pup.
How to Make Your Garden Safe for Your Dog
If you have a garden, find out how you can protect your dog from potential hazards such as plants, garden tools, and water features.
Dog Jumping: Why They Jump & How to Train Them Not To
Learn common reasons why dogs like to jump on you, interesting facts about breeds that jump the most & highest, and how to stop their jumping behavior.
How to Compare Dog Years to Human Years
Learn how to simply and inexpensively build a DIY dog ramp to help your dog get up & down more easily (great for senior dogs & those with mobility issues).
Dog Treats: What to Get & When to Give Them
Get information on Hill's Pet line of high quality dog treats designed to spoil your perfect dog without spoiling their appetite.
Risks of Overfeeding Your Dog
Learn how overfeeding your dog can lead to dangerous consequences for his health. Keep your dog happy and healthy with a balanced nutrition.
Managing Your Dog's Farts & Gas Problems
Learn the underlying causes behind excessive dog farting, signs that gas problems may be a larger health concern, and how to help manage these issues.
Dealing With Ear & Skin Yeast Infections in Dogs
Learn helpful information about yeast infections in dogs (in both ears & skin), including signs of the condition, causes, treatments and prevention tips.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog's Teeth Clean & Healthy
Discover how common dental disease is in dogs and what you can do to help prevent it happening to your dog.
Albino Dogs: Understanding a Rare Condition
Are all dogs with white fur considered albino? Learn the characteristics of albino dogs, along with considerations if you're interested in adopting one.
Ear Infections in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Understand what causes ear infections in your dog and what you can do to help prevent and treat them in the future.
Urinary Issues in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn the underlying causes of urinary issues and incontinence in dogs, why he might be peeing in the house, as well what you can do to help.
Are Dogs Really Color Blind?
Are you wondering if dogs really are color blind? Get the scoop on which colors your dog can actually see and which ones should catch his attention.
Dog Breeds That Can't Swim & Why
Learn why some dog breeds are not strong swimmers, which specific breeds might struggle in water, and water safety tips if you have one of those breeds.
Why Do Dogs Chase Squirrels?
Learn why chasing squirrels has long been a favorite activity for many dogs, which breeds usually chase the most, and if they can be trained not to chase.
Cyanosis & Blue Skin in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & More
Cyanosis in dogs can be a serious condition, with symptoms like blue skin needing emergency treatment. Learn what to do if your dog shows signs like this.
What to Expect When Adopting a Three-Legged Pet
Learn common concerns from pet parents considering adopting a three-legged pet, including info about mobility, preparing your home, & long-term care.
Do Dogs Need Shoes & Booties in Summer Heat?
Discover scenarios where dogs can benefit from shoes or booties in extreme summer heat, including environmental concerns & tips for finding the right ones.
Recognizing Common Signs of Aging in Your Dog
Aging is a part of life, and it is no different in dogs. Learn to detect the signs of aging in your dog, so you can be prepared to help ease the transition.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.