Do dogs get cold in winter?

Topic: Dogs' curiosities

DOGS' NATURAL PROTECTION AGAINST THE COLD

Approximate reading time: 5 minutes

When the cold weather arrives, we rush to get out the warm clothes, turn on the heating and feed ourselves with hot and hearty meals. But what about our furry friends, how do they protect themselves from the drop in temperature? These animals can insulate themselves from the cold with their coat. In fact, it is in autumn that many breeds undergo one of two annual sheddings in preparation for winter and the drop in temperature. In addition to this, many dog breeds have a lipid or fatty layer that acts as a natural barrier against the cold. However, is this enough to prevent them from suffering the ravages of cold temperatures? Is it true or false that dogs get cold in winter?

1- Dogs feel cold too

At what temperature does a dog feel cold?
Which dogs are more likely to feel cold?
Signs that your dog is cold
How to protect your furry friend from cold weather

Dogs feel cold too

It has long been a myth that dogs feel cold. Some theories have continued to rely on the theory of the fur and fat covering them as a pretext to ensure that they can sleep outdoors without any problems. However, while it is true that dogs are more protected from the cold than people, this layer of fur and fat is not a superpower. If the temperatures get really cold or if your dog is particularly sensitive, they will of course get cold, and in extreme cases may even suffer from hypothermia. Here's everything you need to know about whether your dog gets cold, which breeds are most vulnerable, what the symptoms are and how you can protect your dog.

At what temperature does a dog feel cold ?

Dog warming himself from the cold in bed

Just like people, some dogs are colder than others. This depends on the size and type of coat they have, although it can also vary from one animal to another within the same breed, as each furry animal is different. Generally speaking, a dog can start to feel cold below 4°C, or even 8°C if there is high humidity. Beyond this temperature and down to 0°C, there can be varying levels of sensitivity to cold, although between 3°C and 0°C the situation could become dangerous for some dogs. Bear in mind that although they are naturally more protected from the cold than we are, they also have a higher body temperature of around 38-39°C, so they may feel chilled sooner than we think.

Which dogd are more likely to feel cold?

Dogs' sensitivity to cold can vary depending on their size. Small dogs, such as the Chihuahua, Dachshund or Pomeranian, have a fast metabolism that allows heat to escape more easily, making them particularly sensitive to cold temperatures. In addition, as they have more body surface area exposed to the air relative to their weight, they do not retain heat as efficiently as large-breed dogs. Larger dogs, on the other hand, have a slower metabolism that regulates body temperature much better.

However, size is not the only thing that influences how cold a dog feels. If your pet has short hair, even if they are a large dog like a greyhound or boxer, they may not cope as well with low temperatures, as the thin coat does not protect it as well from the environment. On the other hand, long-haired dogs, such as the Australian Cobberdog, are better insulated from the cold by their thick coat. And let's not forget sled breeds, such as the Alaskan Malamute or the Siberian Husky, whose origins and evolution make them much more tolerant of low temperatures, even below 0°C.

Signs that your dog is cold

Dog huddling in his little bed in the cold

The first clue that the environment is too cold for your furry friend is the temperature of their ears and their body in general. Dogs are usually warmer than we are when we touch them, as their natural body temperature is higher than ours, so if you pet your pet and they feel cold, it's quite possible that they're having a bad time. Other signs that your dog is cold include shivering, stiffness, whimpering, shortness of breath, ruffled fur or excessive sleepiness. In addition, if even indoors you notice that your dog is always trying to get closer to the cooker, sleeps curled up for long hours, and is not as excited as before to go outside, it is very likely that they is cold.

How to protect your furry dog from cold temperatures?

Dog very comfortable and warm in his bed

If you have a small, short-haired or simply chilly dog, try not to expose them to freezing temperatures. Avoid early morning and evening walks, when thermometers plummet and humidity tends to be higher. On cold days, keep your pet warm in quality, breathable and waterproof clothing if it rains, but remember to remove it when you get home or if you are going to exercise. This is especially important for puppies, very old dogs or dogs suffering from illness.

At home, make sure the temperature is comfortable and stable, even if you are not at home. Offer your dog a warm, comfortable place to sleep, such as a heated bed (or you can use a regular bed and put a blanket over them).