How can you tell if your dog is cold?

Winter can be tough for our pets, especially if you have an older dog. But how can you tell if they’re feeling the chill, and what can you do to help them?

Here, we answer “how can you tell if a dog is cold?”, the quickest ways to check, and answer any other questions you’ll have on keeping dogs warm.

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The fastest way to check

The fastest way to check if your dog is cold is the ear/paw check. Gently touch your dog’s paws and ears to see how warm they feel. If they’re cold, it’s a strong sign your dog is feeling too chilly.

But why do dogs lose heat through their ears and paws?

It’s a natural reaction as their body restricts blood flow to these areas to conserve heat. It’s why our hands and ears get cold, too!

This isn’t the only sign your dog is too cold, but it is a fast way to check. If they’re cold, it’s worth looking for other signs of cold exposure too.

Signs your dog is too cold

Behavioural signs

• Anxiety, like looking uncomfortable

• Barking or whining

• Reluctance to exercise or move

• Seeking out shelter

Physical signs

• Cold extremities, like ears, paws, and the tail

• Hunched posture

• Shivering or trembling

Worrying signs (see a vet)

• Blue, pale gums

• Confusion

• Lethargy

• Loss of consciousness

• Noticeable weakness

• Slow heart rate

• Slowed, shallow breathing

• Very stiff muscles (difficulty moving)

Is my dog’s shivering to do with the cold or something else?

It depends. A dog that’s shivering but shows no other symptoms of being cold may be dealing with something else, like anxiety, excitement, stress, or old age.

If the shivering goes away when you warm up your dog, then it’s likely due to the cold, but if not, it may indicate something else.

Does my dog’s sleeping position indicate if they’re cold?

It can, but it depends on if your dog’s sleeping position has changed or if they’re sleeping in their normal position.

A dog sleeping in a curled-up position can mean they’re conserving their body heat. But if your dog usually curls up, even in hot weather, then it may just be their preferred position.

If you notice your dog’s sleeping habits have changed in response to the cold, then it can mean they’re feeling it.

How cold is too cold?

This is a loose, general guide (which we’ve covered in our walking your dog in winter piece) on when it’s too cold for most dogs:

• 7°C (45°F): Dogs not suited to the cold will feel uncomfortable

• 0°C (32°F): This is dangerous for small dogs, thin-coated dogs, puppies, older dogs and those who are unwell. These dogs may be in danger if they spend too much time outside

• -6°C (20°F): This is too cold for most dogs and can lead to cold-related health problems like hypothermia.

What breeds feel the cold more?

Typically, breeds that are small or have no coat (or not much of one) feel the cold more. Examples include:

Breeds with short or no undercoat

• Boxers

• Chinese Crested Dogs

• Doberman Pinschers

• Greyhounds

• Pitbulls

• Whippets

Small-sized breeds

• Chihuahuas

• Dachshunds

• Italian Greyhounds -

• Miniature Pinschers

Does my dog need a coat or sweater indoors?

Probably not. It depends on how cold they are, but your home is probably warm enough for your dog. But if they seem slightly cold, you could consider a coat or sweater.

Generally, you won’t need to put your dog in a coat or sweater unless they’re small, elderly, or if they’re unwell. We’ve discussed how to keep an older dog warm guide, but older dogs are prone to feeling colder than younger ones, so an extra layer may help.

But don’t do it unless there are clear signs your dog is cold. They have their natural coat for insulation, and needlessly putting clothes on them can lead to issues like overheating. Wait for signs they’re cold first.

Factors that increase a dog's risk of getting cold

Your dog is more likely to feel the cold if they’re:

Dehydrated

Dehydration can make your dog’s temperature regulation more difficult, which makes them susceptible to the cold.

Have a thin, single coat

Dogs with thin, single coats will feel the cold a lot more sharply.

Not exercising regularly

A low activity level means dogs will generate less body heat, making them feel the cold sooner.

Not used to it

Dogs need to get acclimatised to new climates too, meaning if yours is suddenly in a cold place, they’ll struggle until they adapt. There are limits to a dog’s adaptations, though, much like us.

Recently groomed

Dogs who have had their coat groomed or clipped recently can feel the cold more.

Senior

Older dogs, since they have less body fat and muscle, get colder quicker.

Small

There’s a link between body mass and how much a dog feels the cold. Essentially, dogs with a lower body mass lose heat faster, so they feel colder quicker.

Thin

Thin dogs have less fat and muscle, so they feel the cold more.

Unwell

Dogs who aren’t well tend to feel the chill as their immune system is fighting something, so they have less energy.

What to do if your dog doesn’t seem to warm up

If you’ve tried to warm your dog up using usual methods and they still seem cold, please check with your vet. It can indicate there’s something else going on.

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