HOW COLD DO DOGS GET?

When it comes to your furry pet, you should also acknowledge that they can get cold as well as you do. But just how cold do dogs get in the fall and winter months?

HOW COLD IS TOO COLD?

As a rule of thumb, if it is too cold for you to be outside, then it is too cold for your pup. Hairless or short-coated dogs with no undercoat, toy breeds, dogs with low body fat, and dogs with short legs are most vulnerable and can easily get hypothermia if left outside in freezing temperatures.

Puppies, older dogs, and those with ailing health should also be bundled up in the winter months. The cold can exacerbate existing medical conditions including arthritis.

When temperature start to fall below 45°F, dogs who are able to withstand the cold will start to get uncomfortable and they will require some protection. For any owners who have any type of small breeds, senior dogs, puppies or dogs with very thin hair, start pulling out the coats and sweater when its hitting below 32°F. Once it hits below 20°F, that’s when you need to start paying attention to your dogs well-being. Lastly, dogs that were raised in warm climates - even mountain dogs and huskies - may not do well in extreme cold.