Do Dogs Get Cold? Signs Your Dog Is Too Cold

A thick coat might make a dog look ready for winter, but dogs do get cold. How quickly they feel it depends on their size, coat, age, health and whether they are wet or exposed to wind. A dog that is comfortable on a brisk walk may become chilly when standing still or resting outside.

So, how can you tell if a dog is cold? The best guide is their behaviour. Here are the signs to watch for, what to do when you notice them and how to help your dog stay comfortable as the weather changes.

How to tell if a dog is cold

Shivering or trembling is one of the clearest signs. A brief shiver can happen for other reasons, including excitement or anxiety, but repeated shivering in cold weather means it is time to get your dog somewhere warmer.

Your dog may also lift their paws, walk reluctantly or stop altogether. On a winter walk, watch for them turning towards home, tugging on the lead or trying to find shelter. These changes can tell you more than the outdoor temperature alone: your dog is showing you that they have had enough.

Some dogs become restless or vocal when they are uncomfortable. Whining, seeking your attention or repeatedly trying to move to a warmer spot may all be clues. Others curl up tightly or tuck themselves into their bedding. None of these signs proves that cold is the cause, so consider the surroundings and what is normal for your dog.

Do not rely on a cold nose as a test. A dog’s nose can feel cool even when they are comfortable. Instead, look at the whole picture: the weather, how long they have been outside and whether their behaviour changes once they are warm and dry. Veterinary guidance also lists shivering, whining, lifting paws and refusing to walk as signs that a dog needs to get out of the cold.

Which dogs feel the cold most?

There is no single temperature at which every dog becomes too cold. Small dogs, puppies, older dogs and dogs that are unwell may need extra care. Short-coated breeds can also struggle more than dogs with dense, weather-resistant coats. Even a dog that usually enjoys winter walks may feel cold sooner after a haircut or when their coat is soaked.

Rain and wind matter as much as the number on a weather forecast. Wet fur offers less comfort, particularly if your dog then stops moving. Pay attention during damp autumn walks as well as freezing winter days, and check on dogs spending time outdoors rather than assuming their usual routine will suit every day.

What should you do if your dog is cold?

Bring them into a warm, dry place. If their coat is wet, towel-dry them thoroughly and give them a comfortable place to rest away from draughts. On walks, head home when your dog first shows signs of discomfort; there is no need to finish the planned route. Shorter outings can be a better choice when the weather is particularly cold or wet.

A well-fitting coat may help some dogs, especially those with short coats. Make sure it allows them to move freely, and remove a wet coat once you are back inside. Check paws after icy walks too, removing any grit or ice caught between the pads. Your dog still needs exercise and chances to explore, but the length of a walk should suit the conditions and the individual dog.

If your dog uses an outdoor kennel, check the space from their perspective. Is the sleeping area dry? Can wind or rain get in? Is their bedding clean and dry, and do they have a warmer place to go when they need it? Shelter and insulation can help reduce exposure, but an outdoor kennel alone does not guarantee that a dog will stay warm in every condition. Dogs should be able to come inside to warm up when needed.

When is the cold an emergency?

Being chilly and developing hypothermia are very different. Hypothermia happens when a dog’s body temperature drops dangerously low and needs urgent veterinary attention. Warning signs include unusual drowsiness, confusion, clumsiness, pale gums or collapse. A severely cold dog may even stop shivering, so the absence of shivering is not always reassuring.

If you suspect hypothermia, call your vet immediately. Move your dog somewhere warm, dry them if they are wet and wrap them in blankets while you follow the vet’s advice. Warm them gradually: direct heat and hot water bottles can cause burns. Your dog should be checked by a vet even if they seem to improve.

Help your dog stay comfortable outdoors

Dogs do get cold, but learning your own dog’s signs makes it easier to act early. Watch how they behave, adjust outdoor time to the weather and always make sure they have a warm, dry place to rest.

If you are planning a more comfortable outdoor space for your dog, explore our insulated dog kennels or get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team to discuss an option that suits them.