When winter temperatures drop, do dogs really feel the cold? Absolutely! Most dogs start to struggle once the temperature falls below 7 degrees Celsius, and every dog faces a risk of hypothermia when it dips below -6 degrees. While our furry companions have their natural coats, they aren’t completely shielded from chilly weather.

Just like us, dogs feel discomfort when the cold sets in. In fact, since a dog’s normal body temperature is higher than ours, around 38-39 degrees Celsius, the sudden drop in temperature can hit them harder. Small breeds, puppies, and senior dogs especially feel the chill more intensely. You might notice them shivering, hesitating to step outside, or becoming unusually lethargic.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your dog,” and this advice holds. In this blog, we’ll guide you on how to spot when your dog is feeling cold, identify which breeds need extra warmth during Indian winters, and share practical tips to keep your furry family member cozy and comfortable when the temperatures dip. At Supertails, we believe every wagging tail deserves the warmth it needs to thrive.

Key Takeaways

Understanding your dog's cold sensitivity helps you provide better winter care and ensures their comfort during temperature drops.

• Dogs feel cold like humans and struggle when temperatures drop below 7°C, with all breeds at risk below -6°C

• Small breeds, puppies, seniors, and short-haired dogs are most vulnerable to cold weather conditions • Watch for shivering, curled posture, reluctance to go outside, and cold ears/paws as clear cold indicators 

• Protect your dog with proper winter clothing, warm bedding, shorter walks, and paw care during cold weather 

• Maintain indoor temperatures between 18-22°C and schedule walks during warmer daylight hours for optimal comfort

Remember: if you're feeling cold, your dog likely feels it too. Taking proactive steps to keep them warm prevents discomfort and serious health risks like hypothermia and frostbite

Do Dogs Really Feel Cold?

Yes, your furry companion absolutely feels cold! Dogs, as mammals, experience temperature changes similarly to us. While many people assume a dog's fur coat provides complete protection against cold, this isn't entirely accurate.

Why Do Dogs Feel Cold Like Humans?

Dogs and humans share important physiological similarities. Both are warm-blooded mammals that generate internal heat by burning food as fuel. However, dogs maintain a higher baseline body temperature (around 38°C) compared to humans, which means they might actually notice temperature drops more acutely than we do.

Unlike cold-blooded animals, dogs must maintain their internal temperature within a specific range regardless of external conditions. Consequently, when temperatures fall below 45°F (7°C), many dogs—especially those with thinner coats—begin feeling uncomfortable. Moreover, temperatures below 32°F (0°C) can be dangerous for all dogs, potentially leading to serious conditions like hypothermia and frostbite.

How Dogs Regulate Body Temperature

Your dog's body has several mechanisms to maintain proper temperature. Their coat provides primary insulation—when it's cold, the hair stands on end, trapping a layer of warm air next to the body. Additionally, dogs have both eccrine sweat glands (on footpads and nose) and apocrine sweat glands (in hairy areas), though sweating plays a minimal role in cooling.

Dogs primarily regulate temperature through:

• Convective heat loss (through skin and coat)

• Respiratory heat loss (panting)

• Limited sweating

• Behavioral adaptations (curling up, seeking warmer spots)

For comfortable overnight sleeping, try to maintain room temperatures between 18-22°C for your dog. Besides, small dogs, puppies, seniors, and those with health conditions are especially vulnerable to nighttime chills due to their reduced ability to regulate body temperature, so pairing a warm indoor space with the right winter clothing like lightweight hoodies, padded jackets, or breathable sweaters can help them stay cosy without overheating.

Our Top Sellers:

Do Dogs Feel Cold In Winter Or At Night?

Dogs definitely feel cold both during winter days and nights, though their experience varies. Throughout winter, your dog may struggle with extended exposure to consistently low temperatures, especially during walks or outdoor play.

Nighttime presents unique challenges since temperatures typically drop after sunset. Many dogs show signs of discomfort at night, including restlessness, whining, or trying to burrow under blankets. This happens because their body naturally loses heat while sleeping, plus the ambient temperature often decreases.

For comfortable overnight sleeping, try to maintain room temperatures between 18-22°C for your dog. Besides, small dogs, puppies, seniors, and those with health conditions are especially vulnerable to nighttime chills due to their reduced ability to regulate body temperature.

Don’t miss reading on - Dog Care in Winter: The Ultimate Pet Parent Guide to a Snug Season

Which Dogs Are More Sensitive to Cold?

Not all dogs experience cold the same way. Some of your furry friends may need extra protection when temperatures drop, primarily because of their physical characteristics or health status.

Short-haired and small breeds

Small breeds lose body heat rapidly due to their higher surface-area-to-volume ratio. Chihuahuas, weighing merely 4-6 pounds, start feeling uncomfortable when temperatures dip below 45°F (7°C). Short-haired breeds like Greyhounds and Dachshunds lack sufficient insulation, making them notably vulnerable during winter. Other cold-sensitive breeds include Miniature Pinschers, Whippets, Dobermans, and French Bulldogs—all struggling with inadequate natural protection against chilly weather.

Bonus: Caring for Small Dog Breeds: All You Need to Know

Senior dogs and puppies

As dogs age, they face challenges regulating body temperature. Senior pets often experience reduced muscle mass and a slower metabolism, making cold weather particularly difficult for them. Joint stiffness becomes more pronounced in elderly dogs, as cold temperatures affect the fluid lubricating their joints.

On the other hand, puppies cannot regulate temperature like adult dogs. Their underdeveloped temperature control mechanisms mean they feel extreme cold much more intensely than mature dogs. This inability to self-regulate makes winter nights especially challenging for very young dogs.

Worth Reading: How to Take Care of Your Older Dog During Winter Season

Dogs with health conditions

Dogs with pre-existing health issues face greater risks in cold weather. Those suffering from arthritis experience increased pain as temperatures drop. Heart disease significantly reduces cold tolerance. Even conditions like Cushing's disease can impact a dog's ability to handle winter temperatures properly.

Indian breeds and their cold tolerance

If you live in cooler regions of India, such as the Himalayan foothills, breeds like the Saint Bernard or Siberian Husky might adapt well. Generally, Indian native breeds have evolved for warmer climates and may struggle during cold snaps. Throughout India, even moderately cold winters can affect small or thin-coated breeds, requiring extra care from pet parents.

Read on: Winter Wear for Dogs: Do Indian Dogs Really Need Sweaters?

How to Know If Your Dog Is Feeling Cold?

Watching your dog's behavior offers valuable clues about their comfort level in cold weather. Here are key signs to help you identify when your furry friend might be feeling chilly.

Shivering or trembling

The most obvious indication that your dog is cold is shivering or trembling. Just as with humans, this involuntary response helps generate body heat when temperatures drop too low. If your pup starts shaking during walks or even indoors, it's time to provide additional warmth.

Tucked tail and curled posture

Cold dogs often adopt a distinctive body position—tucking their tail under and curling into a tight ball. This "donut shape" isn't merely a cozy sleeping position; rather, it's their natural way to conserve body heat. When you notice your dog consistently avoiding stretching out and remaining tightly curled for extended periods, they're likely trying to stay warm.

Avoiding walks or outdoor time

Suddenly reluctant to step outside? That's not stubbornness. When dogs resist going for walks, bathroom breaks, or playtime outdoors, they're communicating discomfort with the temperature. This behavior change represents one of the clearest signals your dog is too cold.

Cold ears, paws, or nose

Perform a quick home test by touching your dog's ears and paws. These extremities lose heat first, so if they feel noticeably cold to the touch, your dog isn't retaining enough body warmth. Cold ears, specifically around the edges, indicate your dog's body is working hard to maintain core temperature.

Whining or restlessness at night

Cold dogs often struggle to settle down at night. Watch for whining, pacing, or attempts to burrow under blankets. This restlessness strongly suggests your pet lacks sufficient warmth for comfortable sleep.

How to Keep Your Dog Warm in Winter?

Keeping your furry friend warm during winter requires a combination of protective measures and mindful care. Even with their natural fur, many dogs need extra help when temperatures fall.

Use of dog sweaters and jackets

For shorter walks in cold weather, dog jackets provide essential warmth, particularly for small breeds, seniors, and short-haired dogs. When selecting winter wear, ensure it fits snugly without restricting movement. Look for water-resistant materials with insulating properties.

Our Star Performers:

Warm bedding and indoor comfort

A quality dog bed with insulation helps regulate body temperature during winter. Consider orthopedic beds for senior dogs to alleviate joint pain exacerbated by cold. Indoor temperatures should ideally stay between 10°C and 25°C.

Pet Parents’ Favs:

Shorter walks during cold hours

Limit outdoor time when temperatures drop significantly—under 30 minutes in freezing weather. Schedule walks during warmer daylight hours (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) instead of chilly mornings or evenings.

Paw care and protection from frostbite

Protect paws with properly fitted booties or paw balm against ice, snow, and harmful deicing chemicals. After walks, thoroughly dry paws and check between toes for ice accumulation.

Feeding and hydration tips for winter

Dogs may require additional calories in winter as their bodies work harder to maintain heat. Consider warming their food slightly and adding low-sodium broth to encourage eating. Despite colder temperatures, proper hydration remains crucial.

Also Read: Cold-Weather Nutrition: Tailoring Your Dog's Diet for Winter

Conclusion

Understanding how dogs experience cold weather helps you care for them better. Dogs feel cold too, with sensitivity varying by breed, size, age, and health. They often notice temperature drops more quickly due to their higher normal body temperature. Most dogs get uncomfortable below 7°C, and temperatures below -6°C can be dangerous. Smaller, younger, older, or sick dogs need extra warmth and care.

Signs like shivering, curled posture, or reluctance to go outside indicate your dog needs protection. Simple measures like dog sweaters, warm bedding, adjusting walk times, and paw care can keep them safe and comfortable. Remember, if you feel cold, your dog likely does too — so staying attentive ensures their health and happiness through winter.

FAQs

How can I tell if my dog is feeling cold?

Look for signs like shivering, curling into a tight ball, reluctance to go outside, cold ears or paws, and unusual restlessness at night. These behaviors often indicate your dog is trying to conserve body heat and may need additional warmth.

At what temperature do dogs start to feel cold?

Most dogs begin to feel uncomfortable when temperatures drop below 7°C (45°F). However, this can vary based on factors like breed, size, age, and coat thickness. Small breeds, puppies, seniors, and dogs with thin coats are generally more sensitive to cold.

Do all dogs need winter clothing?

Not all dogs require winter clothing. Dogs with thick, double coats like Huskies or German Shepherds usually have sufficient natural insulation. However, small breeds, short-haired dogs, and those with less body fat often benefit from sweaters or jackets in cold weather.

How can I keep my dog warm during winter walks?

To keep your dog warm during winter walks, consider using a well-fitted dog jacket, limiting outdoor time in extreme cold, protecting their paws with booties or paw balm, and scheduling walks during warmer daylight hours. Always monitor your dog for signs of discomfort.

Should I adjust my dog's diet during colder months?

Dogs may require additional calories in winter as their bodies work harder to maintain heat. Consider slightly increasing their food intake and adding warm, low-sodium broth to encourage eating. However, always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet.