How Cold Is Too Cold For Dogs?

All dogs need to go for daily walks. Some might even need or want more than one walk per day. But, as a parent, you might be worried about how they’ll hold up in the colder days.

Low temperatures can be dangerous for everyone, and you need to know how cold is too cold to take your dog on a walk.

Some dogs have evolved to be able to withstand colder climates. These dogs have thick, double-layered fur, which insulates them perfectly, and allows them to withstand the harshest of temperatures. Not only can they survive in this weather, they even love it. As most people know, Huskies and Saint Bernards are such breeds. But Shiba Inus, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, and a few more are part of this category of breeds.

Other breeds have some characteristics that make them more vulnerable in the cold. Having short coats, no undercoat, and little body fat means some dogs can’t handle freezing weather. Boxers, Dobermans, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds are some of the breeds that can get hurt in colder climates. Toys and small dogs also fall in this category.

Coat type and color also factor in when it comes to resistance to cold. Darker and thicker coats are better for insulation. Size also needs to be considered, as smaller dogs will lose heat faster. Also, senior dogs are better off staying inside when it’s cold outside.

Medium and large breeds can only withstand 30-minute walks in temperatures between 20- and 32-degrees Fahrenheit. Small dogs should only stay outside for 15 minutes in those temperatures. If your dog seems lethargic, whimpers, is reluctant to move, or is seeking shelter, those are signs you should take them back inside. Make sure you keep them as warm as possible, and, if they display signs of hypothermia, such as weakness, lethargy, and decreased breathing rate, take them to a vet as soon as possible.