What temperature is too cold for dogs?

What temperature is too cold for dogs? That depends on the age and breed of your dog, but there are universal ways to know whether you should keep your pup inside or outside on frigid days. Here’s what you need to know about the temperature too cold for dogs so you can stay warm this winter season with your canine companion!

The dangers of cold weather

Cold weather can be dangerous to pets. In the winter, low temperatures combined with wind can lower a dog’s or cat’s body temperature and cause hypothermia. Remember, if you’re outside in cold weather, dress your pet warmly and wear a water-resistant coat.

The ASPCA also recommends checking on your pet throughout the day to ensure it’s not shivering from the cold. If you see signs of hypothermia or your pet is unresponsive, take them indoors immediately and call your veterinarian for assistance.

The signs that your dog is too cold

Being attentive and responsive to your dog’s body language is important. A dog will start shivering when exposed to a cold environment for an extended period. If your dog starts shivering, it’s time to get them inside before their core body temperature drops too low. However, if the outside temperatures are above freezing, shivering won’t be a reliable indicator of how much heat they lose.

If you live in a colder climate with consistently below-freezing temperatures, you’ll need to watch out for other signs that your dog may be getting dangerously cold. When the air becomes dry due to the wintertime chill, dogs risk developing dry skin that can lead to hair loss and itchiness.

How to keep your dog warm in cold weather

It’s important to keep your dog warm in the winter, but it’s important to know how far you can go before they get too hot. There are many different types of coats and jackets on the market. Some of these coats have a hood, so your dog’s head doesn’t get cold. It would help if you also tried to ensure that their bedding or crate stays warm during the night; this will help keep them nice and cozy when relaxing indoors.

The most important thing about keeping your dog warm in winter is ensuring not to put them outside for long periods when it’s really cold out. For example, if it gets below 30 degrees outside, don’t let them be out for more than 15 minutes.

When to seek medical help for your dog

If you notice your dog shivering or shaking, check the ambient room temperature and make sure it’s not below 68. It is, find a warm place to get your dog out of the cold as soon as possible.

If the room temperature isn’t dangerously low, you may want to try increasing the heat in your home, so it’s warmer. You can also create makeshift warmth by bundling up with blankets and putting a heating pad under your dog’s bedding or pet bed. Ensure the heating pad doesn’t exceed 50 degrees Celsius; this could cause serious injury to your pet! Always be vigilant of any changes in behavior, such as decreased appetite or sluggishness. In these cases, seek veterinary care immediately.