Provide shelter: We don't recommend keeping any pet outside for long periods of time, but if you are unable to keep your dog inside during cold weather, provide him/her with a warm, solid shelter against wind.
There are many dog breeds that thrive in the cold, prefer it, and love winter. Some dogs get cold easily, but love playing in the snow as long as they have a coat and some boots. At the same time, there are many dog breeds that hate winter and do not do well in the cold.
Here are 10 of the best dog breeds for cold weather.
When temperatures fall below 32 degrees F, pets that are smaller, with thinner coats, and are very young, old or sick, should not be left outside for very long. Once temperatures hit around 20 degrees F, the potential for frostbite and hypothermia increases significantly for your dogs.
Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and should be kept inside. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods in below-freezing weather.
Australian Shepherds enjoy cold weather, but cannot live outside in it.
Climate. The long coat of the Wheaten allows them to tolerate cold weather with ease. Rain is another story; most Wheaten Terriers have a surprising aversion to water. They must be given plenty of shade and opportunities to cool down if they are to live in warmer climates.
When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. Exercising in cold, rainy weather increases the risk of hypothermia. Older adults and young children are at greater risk.
Stay safe during cold-weather exercise Exercise is safe for almost everyone, even in cold weather. But if you have certain conditions, such as asthma, heart problems or Raynaud's disease, check with your doctor first to review any special precautions you need based on your condition or your medications.
Put on dog boots for winter Dog boots can help protect your dog from injuries, for instance, by providing added traction that can prevent slips and falls. They also stop snow, ice, melting salt, and other debris from building up between your dog's paw pads, which can cause painful cuts and sores.
Hats protect the thin skin of doggy ears, which can be susceptible to frostbite.
The most popular dogs that can't handle cold weather
Yes! Australian Cattle Dogs do well in the cold. Australian Cattle Dogs are extremely hearty and do very well in cold environments even at freezing or below. Because of their double coat, they have added protection from the cold, wind, rain and snow.
Just like any other breed, German Shepherds do get cold. But thanks to their robust bodies and double coats, they tolerate low temperatures better than most breeds. In fact, many GSDs love playing in snow.
Weathertight garage, woofy glory When planning the safest place for your pets, a well‑insulated and weathertight garage is essential. In the winter, you should keep the interior temperature at a minimum of 50°F (10°C). With the right garage door, you shouldn't have to use an extra heating device.
Bragdon says most dogs are capable of staying safe in hot weather if they have enough shade and water. "However, in hot weather, it may be better to visit an indoor doggie daycare facility rather than risk a long hike or run in the park and suffer the consequences of overheating," she says.