How cold is too cold to walk the dog?

While there’s not one right answer for an exact safe outdoor temperature for your dog, here are some tips to keep in mind:

 

  • It’s important to know how much the wind chill lowers the feel of the actual temperature.  You should always go by the temperature with the wind chill included.
  • If it is snowing and it is especially wet snow, it can be more uncomfortable.  Body temperatures will lower much faster with any type of moisture.  You should shorten your walk time in those types of conditions.
  • Most healthy medium or large dogs can walk for 30-minutes if the temperature is above 20 degrees F.  Smaller dogs should limit the walk to 15 or 20 minutes if temps are between 20 to 32 degrees F.  If it’s below 0 degrees, no dog should be out for a walk. 

Your dog’s age, breed, and health are all major factors as well. 

Remember that puppies and elder dogs are much more sensitive to the cold weather because their bodies can’t regulate their body temps well. 

If it’s below freezing, these dogs should be taken outside to eliminate only.

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