7 signs that your dog is cold: they reveal immediately

Our domesticated pets depend on us, so we have a significant responsibility to protect them from environmental influences. Although dogs generally adapt well to cool weather, the majority of them spend most of their time indoors in warmth and comfort. It may occur that, despite your best intentions, you not accurately assess when your dog is feeling cold.

So that this doesn’t cause problems in the future and you can avoid illnesses and injuries caused by cold weather, we’ll show you how you can be sure if your dog is cold and what you can do about it.

Risks associated with cold weather

Regardless of how thick and long your dog’s coat is, it can be sensitive to cold weather. However, it is certain that smaller, slender-bodied, and short-haired dogs face even higher risks when going for their usual walks in cold weather. If their coat becomes wet due to bathing or exposure to rain/snow/sleet, even longer-haired individuals are much more prone to freezing.

If dogs are exposed to the cold for too long, there is a risk of hypothermia. This occurs when a dog’s temperature drops well below the normal body temperature for an extended period.

Frostbite occurs when the body redirects blood flow to the essential organs due to prolonged exposure to cold. This endangers the dog’s tail, legs, paws, nose, and ears. If any of these body parts appear bright red or black, your dog may be experiencing frostbite. The affected body part should be warmed immediately, and it’s best to have a veterinarian examine it as well.

Dogs can get sick from the cold just like we can. They don’t become ill solely from the cold, but it creates an environment where pathogens can more easily affect them. The most common symptoms of a dog’s cold include sneezing, weakness, as well as eye and nasal discharge.

7 sure signs that your dog is cold

1. Shivering

Dogs always exhibit visible reactions to the cold. If your pet shivers or trembles, it’s likely too cold for them to be outside. A general rule of thumb is that if you feel it’s too cold for you to spend an extended period outdoors, it’s likely too cold for your dog as well.

2. Cold ears

Even if your dog is cold, you might feel its body warm due to its fur and their naturally higher normal body temperature. However, cold ears are an immediate and sure sign that the dog is cold. If you bring them inside, using a blanket can be a good solution to help them warm up as quickly as possible.

3. Slow movements

Another excellent tip is to observe your dog’s movements. When dogs are cold outside, they look as if they don’t want to be there anymore; they walk slowly and stop frequently. If you suddenly notice that your pet is trying to hide behind or under various objects during the walk, or if they seek closeness to you, it’s time to go inside.

4. Curling

When dogs are cold, they try to warm themselves up with their body heat. If your pet curls up in a corner of the play area instead of playing with the others, it’s a sure sign that they are feeling cold.

5. Limping

A dog’s paws are sensitive to cold weather, so dog boots can be especially beneficial, especially in snow and freezing conditions. If you notice your dog limping, lifting its paw, or licking it, it’s best to end the walk immediately.

6. Whimpering

Dogs typically whine when they feel uncomfortable. Take this as a clear, unmistakable sign, and after a quick bathroom break, hurry back to the warmth.

7. Drowsiness, lethargy

If during an outdoor walk your dog appears sleepy or sad, it’s much more likely that they are feeling cold. Paying particular attention to this sign is crucial, as it may also be an early indication of hypothermia.

Treatment and prevention

For small-sized, slender, or short-haired dogs, we highly recommend using a jacket, coat, or thick sweater. In rainy weather, a raincoat can be an excellent choice because wet fur can more easily lead to freezing.

Using dog boots is also a good idea in freezing or snowy weather, or if there has been a significant amount of precipitation. They not only provide excellent protection against the cold but also safeguard the paws from injuries caused by snow and frost.

If you observe any of the above symptoms, be sure to bring your dog inside immediately. Dry his coat thoroughly, and cover him. If you don’t notice improvement in their condition within a short period, if they become stiff, or if they have difficulty breathing, call the veterinarian!