Most pet owners are already equipped with the knowledge of how to take care of their pets in extreme heat. But what about the cold? Bored Panda reached out to world-renowned board-certified veterinary surgeon and CEO of Dr. Fossum's Pet Care, Dr. Theresa Fossum, who kindly agreed to tell us how pet owners can help their companions deal with chilly temperatures.
But before diving into expert recommendations, we first have to understand how pets generally cope with cold weather so we can see the signs and address them. “Pets, like people, have varying degrees of tolerance for cold weather. Some breeds, like Huskies and Malamutes, are built for it, while others—especially short-haired, small, or senior pets—struggle much more,” explained Dr. Fossum.
“Their ability to cope depends on coat thickness, body size, age, and health condition,” she explained further.
“Puppies, elderly pets, and those with conditions like arthritis or heart disease may have a harder time regulating body temperature, making them more vulnerable in colder months. Always pay attention to shivering, reluctance to go outside, or signs of discomfort, as these indicate they may not be coping well,” Dr. Fossum advised.
"Young animals cannot regulate their body temperature, so they must stay indoors," noted world-renowned integrative veterinarian and founder of Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic, Dr. Carol Osborne. "Breeds like the Mexican hairless—with no hair, very short-coated breeds, and toys are usually safer inside. Elderly pets and those suffering from chronic health conditions are often best going outside only as needed to eliminate, versus taking long walks."
If your furry companion enjoys spending time outside during the colder months, the safe amount of time they can be outdoors depends on the temperature, wind chill, and your pet’s size, coat type, and overall health, says Dr. Fossum. “A large, double-coated breed may handle 30 minutes in near-freezing temperatures, whereas a small or short-haired dog may struggle after just 5–10 minutes.
"Unless your canine is bred for cold weather like Huskies and Malamutes, keep the basics in mind," said Dr. Osborne. "Short-coated breeds need jackets, and if it’s too cold for you to walk outside barefooted, consider pet booties. Today's pet market offers an array of canine winter weather gear available to fit every size, shape, and style."
It’s important to supervise pets outside in freezing temperatures because if they’re left there too long, their body temperature can get dangerously low, increasing the risk of frostbite, especially on ears, paws, and tails, tells Dr. Fossum. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, weakness, lethargy, and slowed breathing, while skin that is frostbitten turns gray.
If you notice any of these symptoms, "bring pets inside, wrap them in towels, and offer warm fluids. Never rub frostbitten tissue and always call your vet for advice to ensure your pet's best," recommends Dr. Osborne.
A good way to tell if it's too cold for your pet to be outside is to evaluate if it's too cold for you, says Dr. Fossum. “I always tell pet owners, ‘If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.’ Never assume a pet can handle freezing temperatures just because they have fur. Pay attention to their behavior, adjust their routine, and prioritize their safety.”
Some additional recommendations for cold weather that Dr. Fossum gives to pet owners include:
- Limit outdoor time: Only take your pet out for short bathroom breaks and walks when temperatures drop.
- Provide warm shelter: If your pet spends time outside, ensure they have an insulated doghouse or sheltered area with warm bedding.
- Use pet-friendly paw protection: Ice, snow, and road salt can crack paw pads and cause irritation. Consider paw balm or booties to protect their feet.
- Adjust their diet: Pets that stay indoors more often may require fewer calories, whereas outdoor-active dogs may need a higher-calorie diet to generate warmth.
- Dry your pet’s coat after exposure to wet snow or rain: Wet fur loses insulation, increasing the risk of hypothermia.
“Also, be mindful of antifreeze spills,” she adds. “It has a sweet taste but is highly toxic to pets. Keep your driveways and garage floors clean, and use pet-safe de-icers when possible.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Osborne leaves pet owners with the following recommendations for winter:
- Avoid walking on lakes and ponds as they may not be completely frozen.
- Wear reflective gear when walking outside in the evening when it is dark and keep a pet emergency kit on hand.
- Keep your pet's skin and hair coat clean and free of mats and tangles. Regular bathing and grooming are a must.
- Keep toenails trimmed and foot pads free of fur, which helps reduce ice balls forming between pet toes.
- Humidify your home to add some moisture to the air. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements boost internal health and help combat dry skin and hair coats.
- Stray cats often hide inside your car's engine to stay warm, so bang on the hood and honk your horn before starting your car.
- Visit your vet before the season turns cold to be sure your pets are healthy.
- Pets living outside need appropriate shelters, warm water, and more food.
