Cold weather brings festive charm, but for our dogs, it also brings new challenges—from dry skin and cracked paws to joint pain, frostbite risks and cold-triggered medical conditions.
Understanding cold weather safety for dogs is essential to protecting their health as temperatures drop. Whether you live somewhere with mild winters or sub-zero freezes, knowing how cold affects your dog’s body is key to keeping them comfortable and protected throughout the season.
This guide covers how to care for your dog in cold weather, which dogs are at highest risk, what medications may help and how to recognize when cold exposure becomes dangerous.
Dogs regulate heat differently from humans, and their cold tolerance depends on factors like:
Even dogs who enjoy the snow may need extra support when temperatures drop.
Some dogs are naturally built for colder climates thanks to thick, insulating coats and higher body mass. Breeds with dense, double-layered fur retain heat more effectively and are often more comfortable in winter conditions.
Examples include:
Even cold-tolerant breeds can be affected by wind chill, moisture, and prolonged exposure, so monitoring outdoor time is still important.
Dogs with short coats, low body fat, or smaller body size lose heat quickly and are more vulnerable to cold-related stress. These breeds often need extra protection, even in moderately cool temperatures.
Examples include:
Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with underlying medical conditions may also struggle more in cold weather—regardless of breed—and benefit from coats, shorter outdoor exposure, and closer monitoring.
Common signs a dog is too cold include:
Any dog showing these signs should be brought indoors promptly. Dogs often hide discomfort, so early recognition is important.
Cold weather doesn’t just cause discomfort. It can worsen certain health issues or create new ones for dogs.
Cold temperatures often stiffen joints, particularly in senior dogs or those with osteoarthritis.
How to help:
Medications veterinarians may prescribe:
Mixlab can compound gabapentin, NSAIDs (where appropriate) and other pain-support medications.
Dogs with low thyroid hormone struggle to maintain body heat.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs include:
Cold Weather Tip: Monitor your dog closely. Hypothyroid dogs may need more frequent rechecks of thyroid levels in winter.
Medication veterinarians may prescribe:
Cold weather increases cardiovascular demand, which may worsen coughing or exercise intolerance in dogs with heart conditions.
Medications veterinarians may prescribe:
Winter air is dry, which can trigger itching, flaky skin or secondary infections.
Helpful treatments include:
Medications veterinarians may prescribe:
These may be recommended for severe irritation or infection.
Puppies, seniors, small breeds, toy breeds and dogs with short coats are at highest risk.
Hypothermia signs in dogs include:
If suspected, warm gradually and contact a veterinarian immediately.
Here are practical, veterinarian-backed steps pet parents can take:
Even cold-tolerant breeds can be affected by wind chill, moisture or low temperatures. Limit exposure when temperatures fall below freezing.
Trim fur between paw pads to reduce ice buildup. Moisturize dry noses and paw pads with pet-safe balms.
Dogs burn more calories staying warm, so some may benefit from slightly increased food intake in the winter. Ask your veterinarian.
Avoid placing beds in drafty areas. Orthopedic beds help dogs with arthritis stay warm and mobile.
Cold weather may worsen conditions like:
Mixlab can compound medications into chews or liquids, making winter dosing easier for both pet parents and pups.
Most dogs begin to feel uncomfortable below 45°F, and risks rise sharply below 32°F, especially for small, short-haired or senior dogs.
Yes. Ice, snow and road salt can cause cracking, burning and dryness. Paw balm or protective booties can help prevent irritation.
Absolutely. Cold temperatures tighten muscles and stiffen joints. Dogs with arthritis often require increased support, including NSAIDs, gabapentin or joint supplements.
Some conditions, like hypothyroidism or chronic pain, may require dose changes. Your veterinarian may recommend rechecking thyroid levels or adjusting pain medications during cold months.
Yes. Dogs often drink less in cold weather. Ensure they have access to unfrozen water at all times.
Cold weather brings joy, but also unique challenges for dogs. No matter age, breed or activity level, cold weather safety for dogs depends on a thoughtful combination of protection, prevention and ongoing care throughout the winter months.
Supporting your dog’s comfort and health in cold conditions often includes:
Mixlab offers fast, reliable access to compounded medications for arthritis, hypothyroidism, pain management, skin conditions and more, helping your dog stay healthy and comfortable no matter how low the temperature drops.
Submit your prescription online, ask your veterinarian to prescribe with Mixlab, or get in touch with us with questions.