How Cold is Too Cold For Your Pooch to Stay Outside?

Every dog’s tolerance to reducing temperature is different and what is too cold for one dog might be tolerable for the other one. Your dog’s breed, coat type, weight, etc. can be the factors that determine if they can stay outside for longer in freezing temperatures. Although it is recommended to keep dogs warm and cozy during winter, some of them may handle the freezing temperatures better than others.

In this blog, we will look at the factors that determine your dog’s tolerance to cold temperatures that will help you find out how cold is too cold for them.

Let’s begin!

Elements that Affect Your Dog’s Cold Tolerance

Listed below are the factors that impact your dog’s endurance in cold temperatures:

Breed

Breeds like Siberian Huskies, Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards and Alaskan Malamutes are more resistant to cold because of their thick coats and origin from northern areas. On the other hand, breeds with short, thin coats such as Greyhounds, American Pit Bull Terriers and Xoloitzcuintles cannot survive freezing temperatures and need to keep their bodies warm.

Weight

Dogs’ weight also plays a major role in tolerating colder temperatures because body fat works as a good insulator. Dogs with thinner coats are less tolerant to cold compared to bulky dogs hence they cannot stay outside for long in freezing weather.

Size

Small-sized dogs such as Chihuahuas find it extremely difficult to survive freezing temperatures because they tend to lose body heat faster compared to large-sized dogs.

Age

As dogs age, they suffer from various health issues such as joint problems, weaker immunity, etc. making it difficult for them to generate or retain body heat compared to young and healthy dogs. Older dogs cannot stay outside and need essentials such as winter jackets to keep themselves warm.

Temperature

Temperature is a very important factor in determining the safe threshold for your four-legged companion to stay outside. Let’s have a look at the temperature guide to keep your dog protected from extreme cold:

Above 45⁰ F – Not a problem for most dogs, depending on their breed, age, weight, etc.

Below 40⁰ F – Some cold-sensitive dogs might feel uncomfortable

Below 32⁰ F – Not safe for small-sized dogs or dogs with thin coats. Older or sick dogs should be given extra attention.

Below 20⁰ F – Dogs can develop hypothermia or frostbite.

Wrapping Up

Every dog is different and so is their level of tolerance. Just like humans, some dogs get overjoyed with the outside snow and love spending time outdoors while others prefer snuggling in the blankets and having a comfortable, cozy indoor time. Make yourself aware of your dog’s ability to deal with the colder temperatures and keep them safe and healthy during winters.

David joined CanadaVetCare in 2013 as a product analyst and veterinary assistant. Being a passionate pet lover and keen animal health researcher, David had always found ways and solutions to help pet parents to improve their pets’ health. He is always happy to answer pet health-related queries and recommending pet parents for the right pet product for their furry companions.