As a dog owner, you already know that cold weather can have an impact on your furry friend’s health.
However, do you know how cold is too cold for dogs? Just like humans, dogs have different tolerance levels for different temperatures, and not all dogs are built the same.
So, when the temperature plummets, how do you know when to keep your pup indoors? Let’s dive in further.
A Professional Guide to How Cold is Too Cold for Dogs
To determine whether your dog can handle colder temperatures, you need to consider various factors, such as its breed, age, size, overall health, and coat type. Small and short-haired dogs, such as Chihuahuas and Greyhounds, are more prone to cold weather-related illness if left outdoors for too long.
On the other hand, larger and thick-coated breeds, such as Huskies and Saint Bernards, can tolerate colder temperatures better. As a general rule, if the temperature outside is below freezing, you should avoid leaving your dog outside for an extended period, regardless of its breed and coat type.
Another factor to consider is your dog’s age and health condition. Senior dogs or those with health issues, such as heart or kidney disease, have a lower tolerance for cold weather. If you have concerns about your dog’s health, consult with your veterinarian before taking it outdoors in cold weather.
Also, watch out for signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, lethargy, and lack of coordination. If you suspect that your dog is experiencing hypothermia, take it to a warm area immediately and wrap it in a blanket. Call your vet promptly as well.
It’s also essential to keep your dog’s paws safe in cold weather. Salt and other ice-melting chemicals used on sidewalks and roads can be toxic if ingested or irritate your dog’s paws. To prevent this from happening, wipe your dog’s paws with a damp towel after every walk. You can also use paw wax or booties to protect your furry friend’s paws from salt and cold surfaces.
How long you can leave your dog outside in cold weather also depends on the temperature, wind chill, and humidity level. As mentioned earlier, if the temperature is below freezing, your dog should not stay outside for an extended period.
If the temperature is between 20 and 32-degree Fahrenheit, your dog can be outside for up to 30 minutes. However, if the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit with wind chill or below zero Fahrenheit, your dog should only be outside long enough to attend to its business.
Conclusion
Your dog’s ability to tolerate cold weather depends on its breed, age, size, overall health, coat type, temperature, wind chill, and humidity level.
As a responsible dog owner, you need to take all these factors into consideration to determine how long you can leave your dog outside in cold weather. Also, watch out for signs of hypothermia and protect your dog’s paws from salt and cold surfaces.
Finally, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and keep your furry friend inside when the temperature plummets. Your dog’s health and well-being should always come first.
