Whether you live somewhere that sees freezing temperatures every winter or you’re planning a cold-weather trip with your pup, it’s important to know how chilly is too chilly for dogs. While daily walks and outdoor exercise remain essential year-round, cold weather brings additional risks that pet parents should be aware of.
Not all dogs handle winter the same way. Factors like breed, size, age, coat type, and overall health all play a role in how well your dog tolerates the cold. Understanding those differences and knowing how to keep your dog safe can help ensure a healthy, happy winter for everyone.
How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs?
There isn’t a single temperature that’s “too cold” for every dog, but veterinarians and animal experts like the AKC generally agree on some helpful guidelines.
45°F and above
Most dogs are comfortable at this temperature and can enjoy outdoor time with little risk.32–45°F
Limit outdoor time to around 30 minutes and monitor your dog closely. Smaller, short-haired, senior, or young dogs may start to feel uncomfortable and may need even shorter outings.20–32°F
Cold becomes risky for many dogs. Paws, ears, and tails are vulnerable, and extended time outside can lead to hypothermia. This temperature range calls for short walks or potty breaks of 10–15 minutes. Watch closely for signs of discomfort like shivering or lifting paws.Below 20°F
Dangerous for most dogs. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur quickly, especially during prolonged exposure. Outdoor time should be kept to quick potty breaks, about 5 minutes or less for most dogs.Below 0°F
Conditions are dangerous for nearly all dogs. Limit outdoor exposure to just a few minutes, and only when necessary.
When deciding how cold is too cold for your dog, it’s important to remember that temperature alone doesn’t tell the full story. Weather conditions like wind, precipitation, dampness, and cloud cover can significantly affect how cold it feels outside and how quickly your dog may become uncomfortable.
Do Dogs Get Cold?
Yes, dogs absolutely get cold. While dogs have fur that offers insulation, not all coats provide the same level of protection. Dogs with thick double coats (like Huskies or Malamutes) are better equipped for cold weather than dogs with thin, short, or single coats.
Dogs that may struggle more in cold temperatures include small breeds, short-haired breeds, puppies, senior dogs, dogs with health conditions, or low body fat.
Even cold-weather breeds can get cold if exposed for too long or in extreme conditions. It’s also important to note that dogs used to colder temperatures tolerate it much better than those that do not experience cooler temperatures often.
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Cold
Dogs don’t always whine or bark when they’re uncomfortable, so it’s important to watch for subtle signs that they’re too cold, including:
Shivering or trembling
Lifting paws off the ground
Whining or acting anxious
Slowing down or refusing to walk, sluggishness, lethargy
Tucking their tail tightly
Seeking warmth or trying to go back inside
If you notice these behaviors, it’s time to head indoors.
How Cold Is Too Cold for Dog Paws?
Cold weather can be tough on paws. Snow, ice, and frozen ground can cause cracked paw pads, irritation, or even frostbite. Ice melt and de-icing chemicals can also burn paws or be toxic if licked off.
Are Walks in the Snow Safe?
Yes, but in moderation. Short walks or playtime in fresh snow are usually fine, but keep sessions brief and check paws frequently. Dog paws can usually tolerate snow for 20–30 minutes in milder conditions above freezing, but once temperatures drop near or below freezing, exposure should be limited to 10–15 minutes or less.
Tips for Protecting Dog Paws:
Wipe paws after walks to remove ice and salt
Trim fur between paw pads to prevent ice buildup
Consider dog booties for sensitive paws or extreme cold
Watch for limping or licking, which may indicate discomfort
Cold-Weather Dangers: Hypothermia & Frostbite in Dogs
Cold weather can be dangerous for dogs if exposure lasts too long. One serious risk is hypothermia, which occurs when a dog’s body temperature drops below normal. A healthy dog’s temperature ranges from 101°F to 102.5°F, and hypothermia can begin when it falls below 99°F. While small, short-haired, senior, and sick dogs are more vulnerable, any dog can be affected by prolonged exposure to cold, wet, or windy conditions. Signs may include shivering, lethargy, weakness, slow breathing, or confusion. If hypothermia is suspected, bring your dog indoors immediately, warm them gradually, and contact your veterinarian.
Frostbite is another cold-weather danger and occurs when skin and tissue freeze, most often affecting the ears, tail, paws, and nose. Affected areas may appear pale or bluish and feel cold or brittle, with swelling or pain as they warm. If frostbite is suspected, warm the area slowly using warm, not hot, towels and seek veterinary care. Keeping outdoor time short, protecting paws, and monitoring exposed areas can help reduce the risk of both hypothermia and frostbite.
How to Keep Pets Safe in Cold Weather
When winter weather hits, a few extra precautions can keep your dog safe and comfortable. Dogs should never sleep outside in freezing temperatures, but if they must be outdoors, they need a well-insulated shelter with protection from wind, raised flooring, warm bedding, and a safe heat source. If it feels too cold for you to stand outside, it’s likely too cold for your dog as well.
Small dogs, short-haired breeds, seniors, and puppies may benefit from coats, ideally snug but not tight, insulated, and waterproof. Booties can help protect sensitive paws during icy or salty conditions, especially on longer walks or in urban areas. In extreme cold, create a safe and accessible potty area by shoveling a clear path and keeping the designated space free of ice, snow, and harsh de-icing chemicals, so your dog can relieve itself quickly and safely.
Additional Cold-Weather Tips
Always provide fresh, unfrozen water
Increase calories slightly for active dogs (ask your vet first)
Never leave dogs unattended in cold weather
Wipe down coats and bellies after snowy outings
Cold-Weather Dogs: Breeds That Handle the Chill
Some breeds are naturally built for cold climates thanks to thick double coats, strong builds, and historical working roles.
Breeds That Typically Tolerate Cold Better:
Siberian Husky
Alaskan Malamute
Saint Bernard
Bernese Mountain Dog
Newfoundland
Akita
Even these breeds should have limits on outdoor exposure, especially during extreme cold or wind.
Breeds Less Equipped for Cold:
Chihuahua
Greyhound
Dachshund
French Bulldog
Boxer
Whippet
These dogs need extra protection, shorter outings, and warmer gear.
A Clean Yard All Winter Long
Winter weather doesn’t mean outdoor time stops. It just means being smarter and safer about it. Knowing your dog’s limits, watching for signs of cold stress, and a little preparation can help your pup stay comfortable all season long.
When temperatures drop, the last thing anyone wants to do is scoop frozen poop. That’s where DoodyCalls comes in. Our year-round pet waste removal services help keep your yard clean and ready for quick potty breaks — even in cold weather. No frozen surprises, no slipping hazards, and no need for you to brave the cold with a scoop in hand. Because winter is rough enough, dog poop cleanup shouldn’t make it worse.