12/05/2025
KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE THIS WINTER
Cold weather can be dangerous for any dog. Here’s how to protect your pup:
Safety Tips:
• Coat or sweater (especially short-haired dogs)
• Booties to protect paws from ice, salt, and de-icers
• Dry paws and belly after walks
• Limit time on ice — frostbite can affect ears, tail, nose, and pads
• Provide a warm, insulated indoor resting area
• Keep dogs on a leash; scents are distorted in winter storms
• Watch for shivering, whining, slow movement, paw lifting, or curling up — signs they are too cold
Not Safe:
• Leaving dogs outside for long periods
• Relying on fur alone
• Keeping dogs outdoors overnight
• Drinking from puddles (antifreeze is toxic)
• Using metal bowls outside
Breed Notes:
Cold-tolerant: Malamutes, Samoyeds, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Great Pyrenees (still need supervision)
Low cold-tolerance: Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, Greyhounds/Whippets, Pit Bulls, Boxers, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Yorkies
Use extra caution with puppies, seniors, dogs with arthritis, heart disease, thyroid or adrenal issues, and any dog that is wet.
When to Seek Vet Care:
• Excessive shivering
• Pale or cold ears, paws, or tail
• Stiffness or collapsing
• Difficulty walking
These may indicate hypothermia or frostbite.
Safe Outdoor Time:
• Around 45°F dogs can start to feel cold (depending on breed)
• Above 32°F: 15–30 minutes (depending on breed)
• 20–32°F: 5–15 minutes
• 10–20°F: About 5 minutes
• Below 10°F: Quick potty only
• Below 0°F: Emergencies only
Please share to help keep pets safe this winter. Every dog deserves warmth, protection, and care. 🤍