23/05/2026
As Winter approaches, ensuring your furry friends stay warm is crucial!
While breeds like Huskies and German Shepherds handle cold weather well, most dogs struggle in extreme cold, especially in Southern regions like Victoria and Tasmania (and yes, even here in cold Camden! 🥶).
During Winter, it's vital to keep a close eye on our dogs, especially during sudden cold snaps that could harm their health.
Watch out for symptoms such as lethargy, runny nose, watery eyes, shivering, and loss of appetite, similar to humans.
When your dog shows signs of feeling cold, bring them indoors or provide a warm kennel.
Dogs with long, shaggy coats are better equipped to handle the cold as their hair acts as insulation, whilst shorter-haired dogs may struggle more in colder temperatures.
At temperatures around 12-15 degrees Celsius, most dogs are likely to be safe. However, at 10 degrees, it's essential to monitor them closely, as it could be unsafe depending on factors like age, health, and breed.
Temperatures of seven degrees or lower pose a potential danger, and at four degrees, it becomes potentially life-threatening.
Here’s how you can ensure your dog stays safe and warm this Winter 👇
❄️ Avoid leaving dogs outdoors for prolonged periods in cold conditions.
❄️ Ensure your dog doesn’t sleep outdoors. Provide insulated dog houses or a warm spot indoors. Beds should be away from drafty areas, and extra bedding should be provided for warmth.
❄️ Elevate outdoor dog houses to prevent heat loss through the ground. If a dog house isn't available, create a warm spot in your garage or home.
❄️ Keep your dog's bed away from doors or windows that could expose them to cold drafts.
❄️ Provide additional bedding for warmth, such as extra straw or blankets.
❄️ Keep food readily available, as digesting food helps dogs stay warm. Consider increasing their food intake during colder months.
