Do dogs feel the cold?

Do dogs feel the cold?

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
6 min read

Why

Symptoms

Prevention

What to do

Avoid

Exceptions

When to worry

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Do dogs feel the cold?

Do dogs feel the cold?

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
6 min read

Dogs feel the cold. Some breeds have thick coats and an inherited ability to tolerate cold. But just like humans, all dogs shiver and can suffer hypothermia and frostbite. Elderly dogs, puppies, and thin-skinned breeds are most at risk when the temperature drops.

Extremes of temperature bring everyday risks to dogs and their people. Most dogs will struggle when the temperature drops below 7 degrees, but all dogs risk hypothermia when it gets below -6. And remember, its not just the air temperature we need to be aware of. Wind chill, overcast skies and wet weather will all make the outdoors feel even colder. This article looks at the risk factors, recognising when your dog’s feeling the cold, and how to protect them against hypothermia. We’ll also offer some advice on what to do if your dog does get chilled and when to call the vet for help.

Why dogs feel the cold >Why dogs feel the cold [Why

How to tell if your dog is feeling cold

How to keep your dog safe and warm in cold weather

What to do if your dog gets too cold

Things to avoid in cold weather

When shivering doesn't mean your dog feels cold

When to worry about your dog being cold

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