Do dogs get cold?
- Dogs are mammals, just like humans. And just like us, dogs can get cold.
- While dogs have a fur coat that helps provide some insulation, this layer isn’t enough to protect them from long-term exposure to cold weather.
- Dogs also have a baseline body temperature that’s higher than ours and may even feel cold more quickly.
- A heavy dog is carrying more natural insulation than a thin one and therefore will also stay warm longer.
- Another factor is age and health – puppies, senior and sick dogs get colder faster.
- Senior pups usually have lost muscle mass, which is important to stay warm.
Provide a warm sleeping spot
If your dog sleeps outside, it’s time to rethink that during winter. Even hardy breeds appreciate the extra comfort of indoor shelter when nights get cold. Try moving their bed inside, or into a well-insulated area like a garage or laundry.
Make sure their bed is raised off the ground to avoid cold floors and dampness. Adding an extra blanket or a self-warming mat can help trap body heat. If your dog is older or has joint problems, a memory-foam bed with a warm cover can make a big difference.
Dress for the weather
Not all dogs need jackets, but many appreciate them – especially short-haired, small, or elderly dogs. A well-fitting dog coat can keep your pup warm on chilly morning walks or when lounging around the house.
Just make sure the coat is the right size, doesn’t restrict movement, and is easy to take on and off. And remember to always remove it when it’s damp or wet to avoid chills.
Exercise safely in the dark
The days are getting shorter, which means if you exercise with your pet in the early morning or evening, you’ll probably be out and about while it’s darker outside. Make sure your pet is visible in low light with high-visibility accessories and clothing.
Keep them dry
Wet fur makes dogs cold fast, so try to keep them dry during walks or outdoor time. On rainy days, consider a dog raincoat or simply towel them dry when they come inside. A quick rub-down can help them warm up and avoid that wet-dog smell too.
Watch their diet and activity
- Dogs burn more energy staying warm in winter, so you might need to slightly increase their food – especially if they’re active or spending time outdoors. Just keep an eye on their weight and adjust as needed.
- Make time for regular play and gentle exercise indoors if it's too wet to go out. Mental stimulation also helps beat boredom, which can spike when your dog’s outdoor time is limited.
Look out for signs of discomfort
If your dog is shivering, reluctant to go outside, curling up tightly, or seeking out warm places constantly, they might be feeling the cold more than you think. Older dogs and those with arthritis may also get stiffer in cooler weather.
When in doubt, it’s better to offer a little extra warmth and comfort. A few small changes can make a big difference to your dog’s winter wellbeing.
Take extra care of young, old or sick dogs
If your dog is a puppy, getting on in years, or suffering from an illness, remember that they may feel the cold more strongly.
Puppies and kittens have less fat, fur and insulation on their bodies, and many older pets suffer from arthritis, which can be made worse by cold temperatures.
How to keep your dog toasty warm this winter
- Warm beds, some of which are heated or are designed to reflect body heat back, are wonderful for napping and sleeping on chilly days.
- Heated blankets can keep your dog warm as they lie on the couch (though only under direct supervision).
- Keep your home heated on cold winter days. If you are chilly, your pup probably is, too.
- When it’s time to take your pup outside, a warm sweater can help protect your dog from the cold air.
- If your dog spends time outside, make sure they have access to enough water so they don’t get dehydrated and more susceptible to the effects of cold temperatures.
