Hey Indiana: How Cold Is Too Cold to Walk Your Dog?
With the recent ice and snow storms, and temperatures continuing to hold well below freezing, just how cold is too cold to take your dog for a walk in winter?
Outdoor Play and Leashed Walks Are Important for Dogs
Dog owners know the importance of outside play and leashed walks, but when winter weather strikes like it has here in Indiana and Kentucky, it may be best for your dog if you stay indoors.
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Several Variables Can Determine If It's Too Cold for Your Dog Outside
There are several variables that can determine if it is too cold to take your beloved pooch out for a stroll. Things like health conditions, size, age, and breed all play a role in making the right decision for your dog.
Small Dogs Cannot Tolerate Chilly Temperatures
According the BetterVet, for small dogs with less fur, 45 degrees may be too cold. A malamute or a husky may fair better at temps closer to freezing.
The specific temperature at which it becomes too cold for a dog walk varies based on breed, size, age, and health status of your pet. For smaller breeds or dogs with short hair, they can start feeling cold at temperatures under 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme caution should be exercised in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Wind and Other Factors Should Be Considered Before Taking Your Dog Outside
There are other factors to consider too, like is it wet or is it windy? PetMD points out that any form of dampness, whether from the snow, rain or even a dip in a pond, can chill a dog's body quickly, even if outside temperatures aren't all that cold. Additionally, they point out that wind can easily cut through a dogs protective layer of fur making them cold.
Ways To Help Your Dog Better Cope With the Cold
There are ways that you can help your dog stay warm if you must go outside in the cold like sweaters and coats, but if the temperatures are extreme, even those may not be enough to keep your pup warm.
Keep in mind, dog sweaters and fleeces won’t provide enough protection when weather conditions become more extreme. For colder temperatures, bundle your pup in an insulated, windproof, and water-resistant dog coat instead.
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A Good Rule of Thumb (Paw?)
The experts agree that a good rule of thumb (paw?) is that if it is too cold for you to comfortably spend time outdoors, it is very likely too cold for your four-legged friend too.
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