Dogs & Cold Weather: How Long Can My Dog Be Outside?

Dr. Sarah Wooten

January 03, 2023

While some dog breeds thrive in freezing temperatures, even hardy Arctic breeds can experience negative health effects — such as hypothermia, dehydration and dry or cracked paws — if they're exposed to freezing temperatures for a prolonged period of time. In addition, some dogs just don't love cold temperatures, and in some cases, it can even be dangerous for them.

Here's an in-depth look at how cold is too cold for dogs, as well as helpful tips on keeping dogs warm in the winter.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs, Exactly?

Your dog's cold tolerance depends on several factors, including their size, hair, health status, age and breed. Generally speaking, healthy adult large breed dogs with medium and long hair tend to have a higher cold tolerance than puppies, older dogs, small breeds, dogs with short hair or dogs with preexisting health problems.

Dog Breeds Who Love the Cold

Arctic breeds who have traditionally lived in cold temperatures — such as malamutes, huskies, Keeshonden and Saint Bernards — actually enjoy and prefer being outdoors in freezing and subfreezing temperatures. As long as they have an insulated, windproof and waterproof shelter (and access to fresh, unfrozen water), healthy Arctic breed adults who are accustomed to the cold can be outside in temperatures well below zero for as long as they want.

Dog Breeds Who Can Handle a Short Time in the Cold

Medium and large warm weather breeds — such as Dalmatians, boxers, Rottweilers and border collies — can be outside in temperatures down to zero if they're exercising heavily (i.e., running or playing in the snow) for up to 30 minutes. These breeds could potentially stay out even longer if they wear a coat. However, it's important to supervise your dog at all times and bring them inside immediately if they exhibit any signs of frostbite or hypothermia. If they're just standing around or relieving themselves, they're usually OK outside without a coat for five to 10 minutes.

dalmatian waiting for the hunt

Dog Breeds Who Can't Handle the Cold

Small warm weather breeds — such as Chihuahuas, Yorkies and Italian greyhounds — share a different answer to the question of how cold is too cold for dogs: These dogs are intolerant of freezing temperatures. Accordingly, they shouldn't spend longer than 10 to 15 minutes outdoors in temperatures between 10 and 32 degrees Fahrenheit (F), and they shouldn't spend any time outdoors in temperatures less than 10 degrees F. Some toy breeds may even refuse to urinate or defecate outside when it's cold or snowy. In these situations, it can be helpful to train your dog to eliminate on pee pads during the winter.

Puppies of all breeds are more sensitive to the cold than adults, and they can develop hypothermia and frostbite quickly. Monitor your puppy at all times when they're outdoors in freezing temperatures.

What Are the Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite in Dogs?

Hypothermia occurs when a dog's body temperature is abnormally low. Shivering is usually the first sign. The condition also makes dogs tired, and they may look uncomfortable, perhaps huddled up next to the door and wanting to come inside. If your dog is showing signs of hypothermia, bring them inside immediately and wrap them in towels that are warm from the dryer.

Dogs may also hold up one paw or another if they're experiencing discomfort from frostbite — frostbitten skin is red and painful, and it commonly occurs on the webbing in between the toes and the tips of the ears. If you suspect your dog has frostbite, apply a warm, wet compress to the affected area and call your veterinarian for advice. Pat your dog's skin dry instead of rubbing it. Also, don't use heat on any areas you suspect have frostbite.

Can Winter Coats Help Keep Dogs Warm in Winter?

Winter coats can help dogs who would otherwise be uncomfortably cold enjoy some fresh air and time outside during the winter. Here are some guidelines to follow when deciding whether to put a coat on your dog:

Unless they're exercising heavily, short-haired breeds can benefit from wearing a coat outdoors when the temperature is below freezing.
Long-haired breeds may not need coats, but if your dog is small, young, older, thin or shivers when they're outside, then it's a good idea to put a coat on them.
Medium and large breed dogs who have medium-length hair or a double coat, like Labradors, usually don't need a coat while outdoors unless they're just standing around.
Medium and large breeds with long hair usually don't need a coat unless they're resting outdoors.

Just because the temperatures have dipped doesn't mean outdoor fun has to be put on hold. With proper preparation and knowledge about how cold is too cold for dogs, you can have safe fun with your canine companion all winter long!