Do Dogs Feel The Cold?

 

Many of us are looking forward to warm winter woollies and cosy nights in front of the fire once the nights draw in. Lots of us feel the cold in the winter and often need thick, warm coats and boots to keep the chill out. But do dogs feel the cold as well? – despite all that fur? Read our Holidays4Dogs article to find out.

Have you ever wondered if dogs feel the cold like we do? While dogs have fur coats to protect them, they can still feel the chill when temperatures drop. Some dog breeds are better equipped for colder climates than others, but it’s important to keep an eye on your pup and make sure they stay warm and comfortable during the winter months.

Dog breeds such as Malamutes, Siberian Huskies and Newfoundland dogs have been bred in colder climes. Therefore, they are better able to withstand quite harsh, low temperatures.

But. It turns out, even healthy dogs – well protected with a layer of fur – can still feel the cold. Small breeds and dogs with very short coats will also most definitely need extra protection on cold winter days.

Certain types of dogs can benefit from an extra layer of warmth.

Many dogs are perfectly fine in cold weather and will be well protected by their own natural coats. However, there are some breeds that will appreciate an extra layer when walking in cold winds, frost and snow.

Tiny and toy dogs are unable to regulate their temperatures quite as well as larger breeds. Small, delicate will most certainly benefit from an extra layer while walking in bitter weather.

Likewise, dogs with ‘thin’ coats like Greyhounds, Whippets and Great Danes, albeit large in stature, will still appreciate a little extra warmth and protection from the elements during the winter.

Elderly dogs too will need extra layers to help them stay warm outdoors. Older dogs, like puppies and tiny dogs, can’t regulate heat so well. They also won’t have the energy to run around and keep warm like their younger pals!

Red dog jumper

It goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave your dog shivering outside in the garden for too long when the weather is bitter. Dogs that generally live in centrally heated homes, get used to this, so may be more inclined to feel the cold when they go outside.

If dogs do get too cold they can get hypothermia, pneumonia and frostbite. Additionally, being cold and wet over a long period of time can weaken their immune systems, especially if they are already vulnerable, very young, or getting on in years

How can you tell if your dog is cold?

Here are a few signs to look out for which may indicate your dog is feeling uncomfortable in the cold –

  • Trembling, or shivering. Just like us, this is the body’s way of trying to warm up and indicates the dog is feeling cold.
  • Holding up paws. If the ground is freezing, your dog may well pick up his feet and walk in an uncomfortable manner.
  • Tail tucked in. This could be another sign that your dog is feeling cold.
  • Whining.
  • Cold ears. If your dog’s ears are cold to the touch this could indicate he is getting too cold.

 

To keep your dog nice and warm outdoors, choose a good-fitting fleece-lined and waterproof coat. Make sure this covers his ribcage and fits nice and snug.

If your dog is small and delicate stick to warmer times of the day, preferably when the sun is shining. If you have tiny or old dogs, it may be worth considering making walks shorter in bitterly cold weather or, in extreme conditions, staying indoors altogether.

It’s not just outdoors where dogs may feel the cold. Some dogs can feel cold indoors too, so it’s important they are well protected from draughts and damp. Ideally, they should have their bed off the floor, with plenty of layers of bedding.