Dogs definitely can feel cold in low temperatures. In fact, humans and dogs are equally likely to get hypothermia or frostbite in freezing weather. 

Some breeds will get colder faster than others depending on their size and coat type. Short-haired pups may feel uncomfortably cold faster than long-haired dogs because they have less fur to protect their skin. But do dogs get cold even when they have thick coats?

Some breeds originated in the coldest climates on Earth. Mountain dog breeds like the Great Pyrenees have naturally dense double coats of fur to keep warm in the icy winters of their homelands. But even these pups feel cold if they aren’t properly prepared for freezing weather. 

How cold is too cold for dogs?

How cold is too cold for dogs is dependent on a lot of factors. Beyond coat type, age can also impact a dog’s tolerance for cold weather. Seniors and puppies are not able to regulate their body temperatures as well as adult dogs and may be more adverse to the cold. 

Dogs that live in warmer climates year-round can be more sensitive to winter weather, as well. If you live in Alaska, odd are your pup is pretty used to snow and freezing temperatures. These factors aside, how cold is too cold for dogs? 

Vets advise that when temperatures get below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, dogs can feel uncomfortably cold. Small breeds and short-haired dogs shouldn’t be out unprotected in weather under 32 degrees. All pet parents should keep their pups inside when temperatures drop under 20 degrees. 

How to Keep Dogs Warm in Winter

1. Watch for Frostbite and Hypothermia 

Topping our list of ways to keep dogs warm outside is familiarizing yourself with the warning signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Even just a few minutes outside in severe weather can affect your pup if they aren’t warm enough. 

Take your dog inside immediately if they show these signs of hypothermia while outside:

• Can’t stop shivering
• Tries to burrow to keep themselves warm 
• Moving slowly or stopping completely 
• Ice stuck to their body 
• Seems anxious 
• Frequent whining noises

Once inside, help your dog warm back up by wrapping them in blankets or cuddling them close. Don’t hesitate to call your vet if your dog can’t seem to warm up. 

Frostbite takes longer to set in because it’s caused by exposure to cold over long periods. The cold weather reduces your dog’s blood flow and can cause severe damage to their body tissue. Skin discoloration, swelling, and blisters on a dog’s paws, ears, and tail are the most common signs of frostbite in dogs. 

2. Reduce time spent outside

When temperatures drop, you and your dog should spend less time outdoors. This doesn’t mean you have to stop walking your dog or playing outside every winter. Simply be more mindful of the amount of time your dog spends out in the cold and never leave them outside unattended. 

Dogs still need exercise and regular walks. How cold is too cold for dogs to take a walk? Pay attention to the temperature, wind chill, and cloud cover before heading out on a winter walk. Dogs that are less tolerant of cold temperatures may need shorter walks and more indoor playtime. 

3. Invest in a warm winter dog wardrobe

Dressing your pup in jackets, vests, sweaters, or coats are great ways to keep dogs warm outside. It might look silly, but dressing dogs in warm clothes adds another layer of defense against the frigid weather. Plus, it’s pretty adorable to see a dog wearing a sweater! 

4. Create “hot spots” in your home

We aren’t referring to wireless Wi-Fi networks — hot spots are cozy corners of your home where your pup can warm up. Set your dog’s bed near a warm vent or add more blankets to their favorite spot. You want your dog to feel comfortable in a hot spot so they can relax while their body temperature gets back to normal. 

Heated dog houses and bed mats are popular ways to keep your dog warm outside. If not properly supervised, your dog can burn their skin while using electrically-heated products. Instead, stick to traditional thick blankets and cushy dog beds. 

5. Protect your dog’s paws 

Your pup’s paws get the most direct contact with snow and ice while they are outside. Their paws can also be exposed to salt, de-icers, and antifreeze during winter walks. If your dog licks their paws, they could swallow these chemicals and become sick. Clean and inspect your dog’s paws frequently in the winter to avoid frostbite, swallowing poison, and tissue damage. 

To maintain your regular walks in winter, invest in a good pair of dog boots. Wagwellies by Wagwear are sturdy rubber boots that are a great option for winter dogwear. At $49, the set of 4 boots is waterproof, secure, and a comfortable fit for puppy paws.