A Temperature Guide
Most dogs begin to feel the cold when temperatures fall below 45°F. At 32°F or below, every dog benefits from added protection, including a properly fitted sweater or coat. Below 20°F, outdoor time should be limited.
A dog’s tolerance for cold depends on breed, size, age, health, coat thickness, wind, rain and the length of time spent outside. Short-haired dogs, small dogs, puppies and seniors usually need protection sooner than large, double-coated breeds.
What Temperature Is Too Cold for a Dog?
Use these temperatures as a general guide:
- Below 45°F: Short-haired dogs, small breeds, puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions should wear a sweater or coat.
- Below 32°F: All dogs benefit from protective outerwear.
- Below 20°F: Limit outdoor time and use warm layers and paw protection.
Wind, rain and snow can make conditions feel considerably colder. Always watch your dog’s behavior rather than relying on temperature alone.
How Can You Tell If Your Dog Is Cold?
Common signs that a dog is too cold include:
- Shivering or trembling
- Lifting paws off the ground
- Hunching the body or tucking the tail
- Reluctance to walk
- Whining or appearing anxious
- Seeking shelter or turning toward home
- Slowing down or becoming unusually tired
If your dog shows any of these signs, bring them indoors and warm them gradually.
What Should Your Dog Wear in Cold Weather?
For cool fall days, a cashmere sweater or hoodie provides lightweight warmth and can also serve as a base layer.
When temperatures approach freezing, add a down puffer or horse blanket coat for greater insulation.
For cold, wet weather, layer a wool sweater beneath a waxed raincoat. A waterproof neoprene-lined raincoat provides warmth and rain protection in one layer.
Layered for a snow day: down puffers over knit sweaters
Do Dogs Need Paw Protection in Winter?
Yes. Ice, snow, salt and frozen pavement can irritate or injure paw pads. Dog boots provide the strongest protection. If your dog will not tolerate boots, apply a protective paw balm before going outside and wipe the paws clean after every walk.
Keeping Your Dog Warm Indoors
Dogs can also become cold indoors, particularly when resting near drafts or on tile and hardwood floors. A supportive bolster bed, insulated crate mat or warm dog blanket creates a comfortable place to rest.
A well-chosen bed in a draft-free spot makes all the difference for your dog's winter rest
The Bottom Line
If you are cold, your dog is probably cold too. Dress your dog for the temperature, wind and precipitation, and pay attention to their behavior. The right sweater, coat and paw protection will help keep every dog comfortable during fall and winter.
