Care & how-to
How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs?
There is no single temperature that is too cold for every dog, but 32°F is the line that matters most. The AKC says dogs are at risk of frostbite below freezing, and suggests keeping small dogs to outings of 10 to 15 minutes once it drops below 32°F. Thick-coated arctic breeds usually manage 30 minutes to an hour. Wind, wet fur, age and health all shorten those times, so treat them as limits, not targets.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 9, 20264 min read4 sources
The temperatures that matter, by type of dog
For small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Maltese and Miniature Poodles, the AKC says a few hours outdoors is fine between 60°F and 90°F, but below 32°F outings should be kept to 10 to 15 minutes. That applies to hairless breeds such as the Xoloitzcuintli and Chinese Crested too, and they are often uncomfortable well above freezing.
Medium to large double-coated arctic breeds, such as Siberian Huskies, Samoyeds, Malamutes, Newfoundlands and Bernese Mountain Dogs, can usually handle 30 minutes to an hour below 32°F, according to the AKC, and healthy, acclimated arctic dogs can stay out much longer on merely chilly days. Most other dogs fall somewhere between those two groups, so watch your own dog rather than the thermometer alone.
Why 32°F is the important line
Below freezing, the risk of frostbite begins. The AKC says dogs are at risk once temperatures fall below 32°F, that frostbite can start in as little as 30 minutes, and that the ears, tail, nose and paws are affected first. Ice and frozen ground also chill paws directly, which is why cold dogs start lifting their feet.
The same line shows up in the law. The AKC reports that most state tethering laws bar keeping a dog tethered or confined outdoors below 32°F, and during National Weather Service storm warnings. Check your state and city rules if your dog spends any time outside on its own, because some are stricter.
What makes cold weather more dangerous
Wind chill makes the air feel much colder than the thermometer says, and a wet dog loses heat far faster than a dry one. A dog that has been swimming, rolling in snow or walking in sleet needs a shorter outing than the temperature alone suggests. Sitting still is colder than moving, so a dog waiting outside a store chills faster than one trotting along.
The dog matters as much as the weather. The AKC lists puppies under eight weeks, toy breeds, senior dogs and dogs with health conditions as needing to stay mostly indoors in cold weather, with short, supervised trips out. Lean, short-coated and low-slung dogs also feel the cold early, even when they are fit and young.
How cold is too cold to walk a dog?
For most dogs, a walk below 32°F is fine if it is short, brisk and the dog is dressed for it when needed, for example in a dog winter coat. Split the day into several short walks rather than one long one, and stay closer to home so you can turn back quickly. Below freezing with a strong wind or freezing rain, a quick bathroom trip may be all that is sensible for a small dog.
Watch your dog more than the clock. Shivering, lifting paws, slowing down, whining or trying to turn around all mean it is time to head in. After the walk, dry your dog and wipe the paws, because rock salt and de-icers trapped between the pads can irritate the skin and are harmful if licked off.
How to help your dog handle the cold
A water-resistant dog winter coat or sweater helps small, hairless, short-coated and lean dogs, along with puppies, seniors and dogs with arthritis. Dog boots protect paws from ice and salt, though many dogs need a few short practice sessions to accept them. Keep the hair between the toes trimmed on long-coated dogs so snow does not ball up.
Dry your dog thoroughly before going out, as the AKC advises, because damp fur loses its insulating value. Indoors, give your dog a raised bed away from drafts. If your dog lives outdoors for part of the day, they need a dry, wind-proof, insulated shelter, fresh water that is not frozen, and to come in when the weather turns severe.
Warning signs and when to call your vet
Mild hypothermia begins when a dog's body temperature drops below 99°F, according to the AKC. Early signs include strong shivering and curling up for warmth. Later signs include sluggishness, slow or shallow breathing, pale gums and confusion. Pale, gray or bluish skin on the ears, tail or toes can be frostbite.
If you see any of these, bring your dog inside, dry them, wrap them in warm blankets and call your vet or an emergency clinic. Do not rub frozen skin or use a heating pad.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
What temperature is too cold for dogs to be outside?
Below 32°F is where frostbite risk starts, per the AKC. Small dogs should be limited to 10 to 15 minutes at that point, while thick-coated arctic breeds usually manage 30 minutes to an hour.
What temperature is comfortable for most dogs?
The AKC describes around 70°F as ideal dog weather, and says small dogs can spend a few hours outdoors between 60°F and 90°F. Outside that range, keep outings shorter and watch your dog closely.
How long can a husky stay outside in the cold?
Healthy, acclimated arctic breeds such as Huskies and Malamutes usually handle 30 minutes to an hour below 32°F, according to the AKC, and longer on merely chilly days. They still need shelter, water and to come in during storms.
How cold is too cold for a dog in a dog house?
Once it drops below 32°F, even a good shelter is a stopgap. Most dogs should come indoors in freezing weather, and the AKC notes many state laws restrict keeping dogs outside below freezing.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
