What Is A Safe Temperature for My Dog? An Overview of Temperatures by Different Breeds and Sizes
When the seasons change, dog owners tend to wonder: What temperatures are suitable for their dogs? Dogs respond to heat and cold in unique ways depending on their size, hair, and breed. Understanding these distinctions is crucial when it comes to keeping your dog comfortable and secure at all times. Let’s talk about safe temperatures in terms of dog size and length of fur, as well as identifying whether your dog is too hot or too cold.
Safe Temperatures for Dogs
Tolerance is individual, but here is a rule of thumb for safe temperatures by dog size and coat length:
| Dog Type | Safe Cold Temperature | Safe Hot Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Small, short-haired (Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Miniature Pinscher) | Above 7°C (45°F) | Below 26°C (78°F) |
| Small, thick-coated (Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, Maltese) | Above 4°C (40°F) | Below 26°C (78°F) |
| Medium, short-haired (Beagle, Whippet, Dalmatian) | Above 0°C (32°F) | Below 29°C (85°F) |
| Medium, thick-coated (Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie, Australian Shepherd) | Above -4°C (25°F) | Below 29°C (85°F) |
| Large, short-haired (Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher) | Above -4°C (25°F) | Below 30°C (86°F) |
| Large, thick-coated (Siberian Husky, Bernese Mountain Dog, Alaskan Malamute) | Above -12°C (10°F) | Below 30°C (86°F) |
Note: These are general guidelines. Always monitor your dog for signs of distress and adjust their outdoor time accordingly.
How Cold Is Too Cold?
Cold tolerance is determined by fur length, body fat, and acclimatization. Here’s how to measure whether it’s too cold for your dog:
Signs Your Dog Is Too Cold:
- Shivering or trembling
- Whining or refusal to walk
- Curling up or lifting paws off the ground
- Cold ears and body when touched
- Slow or stiff movement
If your dog shows these signs, take them inside and warm them up with blankets or gentle body heat.
How to Protect Your Dog in Cold Weather:
- Use dog coats or sweaters for small and short-haired breeds.
- Limit outdoor time in cold weather, especially for small breeds.
- Check their paws for ice buildup or cracking on cold surfaces.
- Provide a warm, insulated sleeping area indoors.
How Hot Is Too Hot?
Heat works quickly on dogs, especially those with thick coats or short muzzles (like Pugs and Bulldogs). High humidity makes overheating even more deadly.
Warning Signs Your Dog Is Overheating:
Panting or drooling excessively
Lethargy or unresponsiveness
Bright red gums or tongue
Vomiting or diarrhea
Collapse or seizures (in severe cases)
If your dog shows these signs, take them to a cooler place immediately, give them water, and moisten their paws and body with cool (not ice cold) water.
How to Cool Your Dog During Hot Weather:
- Keep them shaded and hydrated with fresh water.
- Restrict walks to the hottest time of day (walk early morning or evening).
- Use cooling mats or damp towels for thick-coated dogs.
- Never leave a dog in a parked car—no matter for how short a time!
- Use dog-safe sunscreen on areas that are exposed for light-colored dogs.
How to Test if Your Dog Is Comfortable
If you don’t know if your dog is too cold or too hot, try these:
- Check their ears and paws – If they are too warm or cold, your dog may be uncomfortable.
- Watch for their behavior – Are they panting, shivering, or staying away from surfaces?
- Check their breathing – Overheating can be indicated by fast panting in the heat.
- Perform the “Five-Second Pavement Test” – Place the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog’s paws!
Observe their eagerness to go outside – An unwilling dog might be reminding you that it’s too extreme for them.
Last Thoughts
Getting your dog comfortable in extreme weather conditions requires an understanding of their breed, size, and individual needs. While some love the cold, others need special attention. Likewise, heat is hazardous to any breed if precautions are not observed. By understanding their limits, being aware of signs of distress, and adjusting outdoor activity to the climate, you can get your dog comfortable and secure all year round!
