When is it too Cold to Walk Your Dog?

Winter is truly a love it or hate it season. For some there’s truly nothing better than crunching their boots over freshly frozen ground whilst a chill bites at their fingertips, whereas others find themselves yearning for the warm summer months and light evenings that go with it.

Whether you’re pro winter or not, if you have a four-legged friend you’ll find yourself venturing out into the world rain or shine. But when it’s freezing outside and not even a warm woolly hat and thick coat wards off the chill, you may find yourself wondering, “when is it too cold to walk your dog?”

Can dogs be walked in the cold?

Yes, you can still walk your dog during the winter, and you should too! Your daily strolls are very important to your dog’s health and wellbeing and are probably the highlight of their day to boot. If they’re still happy to go out when it’s nippy, take them.

However, with that being said, there is such a thing as too cold for your pup.

When is it too cold to walk your dog?

The answer to this question isn’t so straightforward as it will depend on your dog’s size and the thickness of their coat. Breeds with thick coats that are bred to survive in harsh climates such as Siberian Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs and Samoyeds will be much more comfortable in icy temperatures. Whereas small to medium dogs with thinner coats like Chihuahua’s and Whippets will likely find most temperatures below 7°C uncomfortable and will need to wear a winter coat to keep them warm and dry.

It’s worth knowing that some dogs are more vulnerable to the cold, so extra caution should be taken during the winter months. Both puppies and elderly dogs are more at risk, as are smaller breeds and brachycephalic types such as Pugs and French Bulldogs due to breathing difficulties.

What temperature is too cold for a dog?

No matter your dog’s size and coat type, there is a risk of hypothermia and frostbite if the temperature falls below -6°C. A good rule to follow here is that if it’s unbearably cold for you even when you’re all wrapped up, it’s highly likely it’s too cold for your dog too.

Bear in mind that even when the weather’s above -6°C, there may be additional conditions that make it feel much colder than it is such as strong wind, sleet, or rain. If your dog gets wet, there’s an increased risk of them getting cold.

How long should you walk your dog when it’s cold?

When it’s really cold outside it’s generally a good idea to shorten your usual walk to be on the safe side as the longer they’re out, the lower their body temperature will fall. Instead of one big walk a day, try going for a few shorter walks.

As a general rule, follow the guide below for how long you should walk your dog in the winter when the temperature is above -6°C:

• Medium to large dogs: 30 minutes
• Small dogs: 20 minutes

If you spot your dog shivering, stopping walking or struggling at all, it’s time to cut the walk short and get them home. Once your home, if they’re wet use a towel to get them dry and warm them up as soon as possible. If you’re concerned at all and think your dog may have frostbite or hypothermia, contact your vet as soon as possible.

What can I do when it’s too cold to walk my dog?

If it’s too cold outside to go for your daily walk, don’t worry, there’s plenty you can do to exercise and play with your dog right at home. Try brain puzzles to engage their brain – this will wear them out just as much as a stroll in the countryside – spend some time playing with their toys or try out some trick training to keep them busy. Where it won’t be the same as exploring together, they’ll find it just as fun and will love spending time with you nonetheless.

Now you know what temperature is too cold for a dog and when it’s best to just stay in instead. Looking for more advice on caring for your dog during the winter months? Read our dog walking in winter survival tips, next.