Winter Dog Safety: Cold Weather Tips (and When It’s Too Cold)

Extended periods of frigid weather can be hard on everyone—especially our dogs. Some pups will barely tolerate a quick trip outside, while others seem perfectly content snoozing in the snow. Knowing the difference betweencold but okay anddangerously cold is essential for keeping dogs safe during winter.

Below are practical cold-weather tipsplus guidance on when temperature, breed, and body type really matter—and what to do if you’re worried about a dog left outside in extreme cold.

Dress for the Weather

Small dogs, senior dogs, puppies, and breeds with short or thin coats lose body heat quickly. For these dogs, a well‑fitting sweater or insulated jacket can help retain warmth and make outdoor trips safer and more comfortable.

Some dogs love wearing winter gear; others tolerate it at best. If your dog strongly resists, don’t force it—keep trips outside short and positive instead.

Protect Those Paws

Frozen ground, ice, and packed snow can cause painful ice crystals to form between your dog’s toes. If your dog suddenly lifts a paw, limps, or cries, it’s time to head inside immediately.

Booties can protect paws from:

• Ice and snow buildup

• Chemical de‑icers and salt

• Slipping on slick surfaces

Not all dogs will wear them, but for those who do, booties can significantly reduce winter paw injuries.

Be Extra Careful on Ice

When walking near icy areas, slow down and take short, flat‑footed steps. Keep your dog close and on a leash to prevent slips.

Never allow dogs to run across frozen lakes, ponds, or rivers. Ice thickness is unpredictable, and a fall through can quickly become fatal—for both the dog and anyone attempting a rescue.

Fireplace & Indoor Heat Safety

If you use a fireplace or wood stove, always use a safety guard. Curious dogs may be drawn to ashes, embers, or warmth and can easily suffer burns or inhale soot. Supervise pets closely whenever a fire is active or cooling.

Watch for Signs of Cold Stress

Bring your dog indoors immediately if you notice:

• Shivering or shaking

• Lethargy or weakness

• Whining or anxiety

• Cold ears, paws, or tail

Discourage dogs from eating snow. Snow may contain hidden debris, salt, or chemicals, and excessive ingestion can dangerously lower body temperature.

Beware of Antifreeze

Antifreeze is extremely toxic to pets—even a small amount can be fatal. Unfortunately, it has a sweet taste that attracts animals.

Risk is highest in winter due to vehicle leaks and spills. Store antifreeze securely, clean spills immediately, and seek veterinary careat once if exposure is suspected.

How Cold Is Too Cold? It Depends on the Dog

Not all dogs experience cold the same way. Breed, coat type, size, age, health, and acclimation all matter.

Dogs More Tolerant of Cold

These breeds are built for winter conditions butstill need limits:

• Newfoundland

• Great Pyrenees

• Alaskan Malamute

• Siberian Husky

Even cold‑loving breeds should be brought indoors or provided with adequate shelter during extreme conditions such as high winds, blowing snow, or dangerously low wind chills.

Dogs at Higher Risk in Cold Weather

These dogs shouldnot be left outside in frigid temperatures:

• Small breeds

• Short‑haired or thin‑coated dogs

• Puppies and senior dogs

• Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Frenchies)

• Dogs with arthritis or chronic illness

For these dogs, cold exposure can be dangerous within a short time.

When Should You Be Concerned About a Dog Left Outside?

Seeing a dog outside in winter can be confusing. A snow‑covered Malamute playing happily is very different from a short‑haired dog curled tightly in a bare shelter during a wind‑chill advisory.

Ask yourself:

1. Does your gut say something is wrong? If your stomach drops and every instinct tells you that the dog is cold or distressed, pay attention.

2. Are there official winter alerts advising pets be brought indoors? If authorities are warning people to keep pets inside, that guidance matters.

3. Does the dog have adequate shelter, bedding, food, and water? A wooden doghouse alone is not sufficient protection in sub‑zero or windy conditions.

What To Do If You're Worried

If you believe a dog is at risk:

• Note thedate, time, location, weather conditions, and description of the dog

• Take photos or video if it’s safe to do so

• Contactlocal animal control or the county sheriff’s office

• Keep records of who you spoke with and when

Animal neglect—including leaving pets outside without adequate shelter in extreme cold—is a crime in many areas.

If you’re unsure how to proceed, organizations like the Humane Society of the United States can offer guidance on next steps.

In Closing

Common sense matters. Even dogs who love the cold have limits, and dogs who aren’t built for winter need protection quickly. When in doubt, err on the side of warmth, safety, and compassion—for your own pets and for the dogs you may see outside in extreme weather.

© 2002-2026 The Blissful Dog Inc. All rights reserved.

*This article was originally published in 2009 and has been updated to reflect current best practices in cold-weather dog care.