How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs? When Dogs Need a Coat (Winter Temperature Guide)

How cold is too cold for dogs?

As a general rule of thumb, if it feels uncomfortably cold for you outside, it’s likely too cold for your dog — especially if he or she isn't protected with a warm winter coat .Veterinary organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the ASPCA even confirm most dogs are more vulnerable to cold weather than we realize.

Many dogs begin to feel cold when temperatures drop below 45-50°F (7-10°C), particularly small dogs, short-haired breeds, puppies, and senior dogs.

As temperatures fall further, cold conditions become uncomfortable to potentially unsafe for many dogs, and most cold-sensitive dogs will need an insulated winter coat for warmth and protection.

Below 20-30°F (−6 to -1°C), the risk of hypothermia and possibly even frostbite increases significantly. For most dogs, outdoor time should be limited to potty breaks and short walks, with protective winter dog gear strongly recommended.

Dogs' cold tolerance depends on several factors:

• Size and body fat: Small dogs and lean breeds lose heat faster.
• Coat type: Double-coated dogs tolerate cold better than short-haired or single-coated breeds.
• Age and health: Puppies, seniors, and dogs with medical conditions feel cold more quickly.
• Wind and moisture: Wind chill and damp fur make temperatures feel much colder than the number on the forecast.

When in doubt, err on the side of caution: shorten walks, bundle your dog in a well-fitting winter dog coat, and keep a close eye on your pup's body language. If you are uncomfortably cold outside, your dog probably is too.

Quick winter temperature guide: when dogs need a coat

This quick reference helps dog parents decide when to add a layer. Always factor in wind, moisture, and your dog’s age, coat type, size, and overall health.

• 50–45°F (10 to 7°C): Many dogs begin to feel cold, especially small, short-haired, low-to-the-ground, puppy, and senior dogs. A windproof dog jacket or lightweight dog puffer coat is often recommended for cold-sensitive dogs.
• 45-35°F (7 to 1°C): A lightweight lightweight puffer coat or insulated dog jacket helps retain core warmth during walks, especially for small, short-haired, low-to-the-ground, puppy, and senior dogs.
• 35–20°F (1 to −6°C): Cold conditions become uncomfortable to potentially unsafe for many dogs. Most cold-sensitive dogs typically need a winter coat for walks.
• Below 20°F (−6°C): Risk of hypothermia and frostbite increases. Almost all dogs benefit from a winter coat, with outdoor time limited for safety.
• Below 10°F (−12°C): Risky for many dogs (and people for that matter). Outdoor exposure should be minimal, even with protective gear.
  

Which dogs feel the cold fastest?

Some dogs can happily romp in the snow for hours, while others start shivering as soon as they step outside. Dogs that are most vulnerable to cold weather include:

• Short-haired or single-coated breeds like dachshunds, Chihuahuas, pit bulls, Boston terriers, Jack Russell terriers, French bulldogs, and greyhounds.
• Toy and small breed dogs who lose body heat quickly due to their small size.
• Dogs with short legs (hello, low riders!) whose bellies are closer to cold, wet ground and snow.
• Puppies, whose bodies are still developing and regulating temperature.
• Senior dogs and dogs with arthritis, joint issues, or chronic illness.
• Dogs accustomed to warm climates who are suddenly exposed to harsh winter weather.

If your dog fits any of these categories, think of winter gear as essential safety equipment, not just a cute accessory. A properly fitted winter dog coat or dog hoodie can make a huge difference in their comfort outside.

Related reading from the ASPCA: Cold weather safety tips

How to Keep Your Dog Warm in Winter: 7 Practical Tips

1. Use insulating winter dog coats and layers

High-quality dog coats and jackets are one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your pup warm. They help protect your dog’s chest, belly, and core—areas that lose heat quickly in snow, wind, and slush.

Layering works beautifully for many dogs, just like it does for us. For example:

• Start with a soft, comfy dog hoodie or sweater.
• Add an insulated, weather-resistant winter dog coat or puffer jacket on top.

DJANGO’s winter dog coats—like the adjustable Whistler Winter Dog Coat, ultra-insulated Snowline Puffer Dog Coat, and versatile Reversible Puffer Dog Coat—are designed to keep dogs warm without restricting movement or rubbing sensitive areas.

2. Protect paws from ice, salt, and snow

Even though dogs have a clever paw “radiator” system that helps warm blood returning to the body, their paw pads are still vulnerable to extreme cold, ice, and chemical deicers. Snow and ice can pack between toes, while road salt can sting, crack pads, and be toxic if licked.

To protect your dog’s paws in winter:

• Use well-fitted winter dog boots or rubber booties for snowy, icy walks.
• If your dog refuses to wear winter boots, consider an all-natural paw protectant like this highly rated paw balm
• Avoid heavily salted sidewalks when possible.
• After each walk, rinse or wipe paws with warm water to remove salt and ice, and gently dry them.

Not sure which boots to try? We rounded up our favorite options in this guide: The Best Dog Boots & Paw Protectors for Winter Adventures.

3. Limit time outside on frigid days

On particularly bitter days, even the toughest, snow-loving dogs can get too cold. When temperatures plunge or wind chill is extreme, trade long walks for shorter potty breaks plus indoor play.

Ideas for indoor winter exercise:

• Play fetch down a hallway or in a safe, open room.
• Try tug-of-war, puzzle toys, or snuffle mats. 
• Engage your dog with obedience sessions to burn mental energy.

Short, frequent outings in a warm dog coat are much safer than one long, uncomfortable walk in dangerous conditions.

4. Dry your dog thoroughly after walks

Cold plus wet is a rough combination for dogs. If your pup comes home damp from snow, sleet, or rain, take a few minutes to dry them off thoroughly—especially their paws, legs, chest, and belly.

Simple steps:

• Keep a clean towel by the door for quick rub-downs.
• Remove any clumps of ice or packed snow from fur and paws. If the snow is really stuck in their fur, consider rinsing them in a large sink (for small pups like our doxie) or bathtub (large pups)
• Check for redness or irritation between toes and around paw pads.

Tip for snowy paws: a warm bowl of water by the door makes it easy to clean paws quickly of ice, deicers, and road salt. Make sure to then dry your dogs' paws thoroughly to prevent chills and irritation.

5. Keep your dog warm and cozy indoors

Many homes run cooler at night or during the workday, which can be uncomfortable for small dogs, seniors, and short-haired breeds. A little extra warmth goes a long way for their comfort and joint health.

To keep your dog warm inside:

• Provide a well-insulated bed away from drafts, doors, and cold tile floors.
• Consider a lightweight dog hoodie or sweater if indoor temperatures are low.
• Use space heaters and fireplaces carefully, and keep them blocked off from curious noses and tails.

Many DJANGO customers leave our dog hoodies or soft coats on their pups indoors during particularly cold spells for that extra layer of comfort.

6. Watch hydration, nutrition, and calorie needs

We tend to think of dehydration as a summer problem, but it’s just as common in winter. Heated indoor air can be very drying, and dogs may be less inclined to drink when their water bowl feels icy cold.

Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, room temperature water. If your pup is highly active outside in wintry conditions—snow zoomies, hikes, or long runs—ask your veterinarian whether a small increase in calories or dietary fat is appropriate during the coldest months.

On the flip side, dogs who exercise less in winter may actually need fewer calories to avoid unwanted weight gain. Your vet can help you find the right balance for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.

7. Learn the early signs of cold stress and hypothermia

Dogs can’t tell us with words when they’re too cold, so it’s important to watch their body language closely. Some early signs that your dog is getting too cold include:

• Shivering or trembling (not just excitement)
• Lifting paws, hopping, or hesitating on icy ground
• Curled-up posture, hunched back, or tucked tail
• Slowing down, refusing to walk, or trying to turn back home

More serious signs of hypothermia may include pale gums, extreme lethargy, confusion, or difficulty walking. If you notice any of these, bring your dog inside immediately, dry them off, wrap them in warm blankets, and contact your veterinarian right away.

For more vet-reviewed info on hypothermia in dogs, see: VCA Animal Hospitals – Hypothermia in Dogs.

When in doubt, it’s always better to shorten the walk, warm up your dog, and reschedule outdoor adventures for a safer time of day or better weather.

Additional DJANGO winter dog safety resources

• 5 Winter Dog Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
• The Best Dog Boots & Paw Protectors for Winter Adventures
• DJANGO Winter Dog Coats & Cold-Weather Apparel

About DJANGO

DJANGO designs premium dog coats, harnesses, leashes, carriers, and all-weather apparel for everyday adventures. Inspired by an adventure-loving dachshund named Django, our brand focuses on comfortable fits, durable materials, and modern, city-to-trail style.

Our winter dog coats—including the Whistler Winter Dog Coat, Snowline Puffer Dog Coat, and Reversible Puffer Dog Coat—are thoughtfully crafted to keep dogs warm and comfortable without restricting movement, rubbing sensitive areas, or riding up during play.

Key takeaways: keeping your dog warm this winter

• If it feels painfully cold for you, it’s likely too cold for your dog—especially without a coat.
• Short-haired, small, senior, and low-to-the-ground dogs are especially sensitive to cold temperatures.
• Use insulated winter dog coats, hoodies, and boots when appropriate.
• Protect paws from ice, snow, and road salt, and always dry your dog thoroughly after walks.
• Shorten walks on frigid days, offer indoor play, and watch for early signs of cold stress.
• Talk with your veterinarian about your dog’s winter calorie and hydration needs.

For more protection on winter walks, explore our collection of cold-weather dog coats, jackets, and hoodies designed for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds.