What Temperature Is Too Cold for Dogs

When temperatures fall below 32 degrees F, pets that are smaller, with thinner coats, and are very young, old or sick, should not be left outside for very long. Once temperatures hit around 20 degrees F, the potential for frostbite and hypothermia increases significantly for your dogs.

What cold temperature can dogs tolerate?

Generally speaking, dogs will be okay until the temperature drops to below 45°F. At that point, they may start to “feel” cold (and might seek out shelter or a way to stay warm). At 32°F, small dogs, elderly dogs, and dogs with preexisting health conditions should probably stay indoors.

Can dogs be left outside in the cold?

Cold weather can be deadly for pets. … We encourage you to contact local law enforcement agencies because pets left outside in extreme temperatures, especially without food or shelter, are at risk of hypothermia, frostbite and even death.