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Dogs are our best friends, no matter the season — whether we’re hiking along a lake in the summer or warming our hands (and paws) by a campfire in the crisp fall air.
But when it starts to get chilly outside, your dog may have a limit.
So, how cold is too cold for a dog? Here’s how to know what weather is off-limits, so that you can make sure your pup’s season is truly a winter wonderland.
How Cold is Too Cold for Dogs: General Guidelines
A good rule of thumb is that if it’s too chilly for you, it’s too chilly for your dog. But exactly how cold is too cold for a dog to be outside?
45°F and above
At temperatures 45°F and above, chances are that you can handle it — and so can your pup. Of course, always keep an eye on them for signs of discomfort, especially if they don’t have a lot of fur.
And a dog who’s not used to the cold, such as a pet who was adopted from the south and transported up north, might take more time to adjust than the pup you adopted locally in a city like Minneapolis or Boston.
Below 45°F
So, what temperature is too cold for dogs? Below 45°F, stop to consider your dog’s comfort level. Is your dog a ball of fluff? That extra fur might keep them cozy enough, but if you notice any shivering, they’re going to need an extra layer.
If your dog doesn’t have a thick coat — think rat terriers or greyhounds — they’ll also need some help. Even if it doesn’t feel particularly cold to you yet, consider that you’re at least wearing clothes! Get your dog some nice duds too.
Below 32°F
Below freezing is a big brrrr! moment for us all, and all dogs could use a good winter coat in these temps. If your dog is larger and is zooming around in the yard having a blast, chances are they’re okay with the weather — though you should still limit their time outside and keep a close eye on them.
On the other hand, if they’re not their usual, happy self, it’s time to head indoors. Most small dogs will not be happy outdoors in this weather.
Regardless of the dog, when it’s this cold, there’s no reason to be outside for more than 10 or 15 minutes.
Below 20°F
If it’s colder than 20°F, you’ll want to severely limit your dog’s time outside — or avoid it altogether by using wee-wee pads or even a patch of grass that you can purchase earlier in the season and store in a mud room or the garage. Even if it seems like your dog doesn’t mind the freeze, temperatures this cold can make even the largest, fluffiest dog susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia.
Factors Affecting a Dog's Cold Tolerance
Coat type and length
It’s a simple equation: If your dog has short fur (or is totally naked—hello, Xolos!), their cold tolerance will be low.
Size and body composition
Chi, Pom, and Yorkie parents, take note! The smaller the dog, the more susceptible they are to frigid temperatures. Low riders may also be more affected by the cold since their bodies are closer to the ground and tend to get wet from snow.
Underweight dogs and puppies are also more likely to be affected by cool weather.
Health status
Dogs with health issues may not be able to regulate their body temperatures as well as other dogs, so they may be more sensitive to the cold.
Dogs with osteoarthritis may experience more pain during the winter, so limit their time outside; if you notice they’re uncomfortable, speak with your vet about medication this time of year.
Age
Puppies and senior pups are going to be more sensitive to the cold than their middle-aged counterparts, so keep them inside as much as possible during cold snaps.
Activity levels
If your dog is super active, they may embrace the cold more than a dog who prefers to stop and smell the roses. Still, take it day by day.
Symptoms of Hypothermia in Dogs
Hypothermia occurs when a dog’s body temperature drops too low — that’s below 99°F in canines — and it can result in organ failure, brain damage, coma, and even death. So, take these signs seriously, and if symptoms don’t improve indoors, call or rush your dog to the vet.
Shivering
Shivering is one of the first signs of hypothermia. Bring your dog immediately inside.
Lethargy
If your dog isn’t exhibiting his normal amount of energy, get him somewhere warm.
Slow breathing
While breathing may seem more rapid at first, it often transmutes into shallow breathing, a common sign of hypothermia.
Weakness
Along with the lethargy, your dog might generally be weak and exhibit signs like delayed reflexes.
Disorientation
Dogs experiencing disorientation may feel lost, confused, or unable to recognize familiar surroundings. This is always cause for concern, and it can be a sign of hypothermia.
Protecting Your Dog from the Cold
Dog clothing and accessories
You’ve probably wondered: Does my dog need a jacket? The answer is unequivocally yes.
When it comes to winter accessories, dogs need sweaters just as much as humans do. If your bestie’s a breed with short hair or no hair (we’re looking at you, Chinese Cresteds), then go ahead and buy that cute puffer jacket and put it on them if it’s 45°F or below.
But even dogs with longer hair can use winter goodies. If it’s below freezing, most dogs would appreciate the kindness of a coat. The chilliest among them might like an indoor sweater too.
And don’t underestimate the power of a good pair of booties, which can protect your dog’s paws in the winter.
Monitoring outdoor time
Always keep an eye on your pup and watch for signs of discomfort. If it’s excessively cold, limit their outdoor time to 10 minutes.
Providing a warm environment indoors
You love a cozy winter setup with tea, blankets, and a good book or movie, and your dog needs their own cozy lair. Create a warm, dry place for them to call their own. Big, furry beds with cuddly toys are sure to be a hit.
Invest in some microfiber towels to keep by the door — they’re great for wiping down your dog after they’ve been in the snow. Hopefully their coat and booties fought off most of the dampness, but towel-dry any other wet parts, such as their tail, so they’ll dry more quickly and get their body temp up.
Ensuring proper hydration and nutrition
Your dog should have enough food and fresh water in all seasons. If you live somewhere that may become inaccessible in frigid weather, have extra food on hand. Ask your vet if your dog needs more or less food during the winter; if they’re very active outside, they could need more.
Reporting a dog left in the cold
There’s no excuse for leaving a dog out in the cold. Dogs need warm, dry places to live — and as our best friends, they deserve them too. Sadly, not all dogs are so fortunate, but there are things you can do if you see a dog who’s been left outside in the cold.
Steps to take when noticing a dog in distress
Document the incident the first time you see it, and every time after that. Provide as many details as possible (the animal, the day, the time, the location), and take a photo or video if you can. When you’ve collected your evidence, reach out to your local law enforcement or animal control. It’s important to gather evidence first so that you have enough information to present.
Authorities will have experience dealing with these situations, so don’t be shy about contacting them. Keep documenting and calling until the animal is out of the dangerous situation. Don’t give up!
Legal protections for dogs in cold weather
Laws vary by state, but animal neglect is always a misdemeanor in the United States, and in some states, it may even be a felony if the neglect results in the death of the animal.
Tips for Keeping Pets Safe in the Cold
Know when it's too cold for your pet
It’s okay to admit defeat. If there’s a blizzard and your Chihuahua looks like he just saw the abominable snowman, give the little guy a break and cut his time outside short.
Provide extra layers of warmth
Sometimes a sweater or coat isn’t enough. Try both! Your dog will be grateful to be layered (as long as it’s not too constricting), and it’ll help him enjoy his walk more.
Protect against dry skin and cracked paws
Invest in some good paw wax, which will protect against the salt that covers snowy surfaces like sidewalks and patios. You can also trim the hairs between the paw pads so they don’t retain extra moisture. Even better, buy some booties, which will also protect against frostbite and salt.
It can be difficult to find the right fit; they shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. This may require some trial and error, but it’s well worth it.
Watch out for winter hazards
Antifreeze is a serious threat to pets. It's highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested. Store antifreeze in a secure location away from animals. Cold weather can pose another risk to dogs—frostbite can affect their paws, ears, and tail, so limit their time outside in extreme temperatures. Be mindful of icy surfaces as well, as they can be slippery and lead to falls.
Increase your pet's visibility
Neon wasn’t just a thing in the 80s; it’s also on plenty of dog clothes — and for good reason. Invest in a bright neon coat that will stick out in the winter landscape or buy a collar with a reflective surface so that cars can see you and your pup.
Create an emergency plan for your pets
Do you have blankets and another heat source ready to warm up your pup if they’re displaying signs of hypothermia? How about a thermometer and petroleum jelly so you can take their temperature? (Below 99°F in dogs signals hypothermia.) Do you have the number of your veterinarian and an emergency veterinarian on hand?
Planning will help you feel less panicked in the moment. Winter emergencies can be stressful and costly. Pet insurance offers financial protection for unexpected vet bills, such as hypothermia treatment or frostbite care. By investing in pet insurance, you can provide your furry friend with the best possible care without worrying about the financial burden.
Importance Of Being Aware of Your Dog's Cold Tolerance
Your dog’s always there for you, and it’s your job to be there for them — no matter the season. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of their cold tolerance. Keep tabs on how they react in different weather, and consider whether that cute little après-ski sweater you fell in love with should really be a bulky parka with extra protection.
Ensuring The Safety and Well-being of Your Pet During Cold Weather
Your dog looks to you for guidance each and every day, so it’s important that you’re the one to call the shots. Is it too cold? Bring your buddy in. They might be annoyed in the moment when playtime gets cut short, but they’ll thank you in the end. After all, what’s better than a grateful, happy pup curled up next to you on a winter’s night?