Winter warnings for dog owners as experts highlight cold-weather risks

Dog owners are being urged to rethink how they walk and protect their pets this winter, as colder temperatures, icy pavements and persistent rain return across the UK. While many assume that most dogs can tolerate low temperatures without issue, experts say that breed, size, coat type and age all play a major role in how well a dog copes with the cold.

Chris Maxted, director of dog safety gate company Dog-G8 and a long-time pet safety advocate, has warned that common winter misconceptions may be putting dogs at risk. He said that many dogs struggle far sooner than owners realise, and that misjudging a dog’s tolerance to winter weather can quickly turn a routine walk into a welfare risk.

Maxted explained that even temperatures just above freezing can be challenging for smaller or thin-coated dogs. He noted that by –6°C, most dogs should only be taken out briefly, and by –9°C, outdoor time should be limited to quick toilet breaks. Wet or slushy conditions make the cold more intense and increase the chance of discomfort or hypothermia.

He also urged owners to watch for early warning signs that a dog is too cold, including slight shivering, slowing down, or hesitation to continue walking. When these signs appear, the dog may need a shorter route, extra warmth or a quicker return home.

According to Maxted, dogs react differently at various winter temperatures. At 4°C, small, toy, thin-coated and older dogs lose body heat quickly and often need a coat, especially in wind or rain. At around 1°C, most breeds start to feel the cold, while at 0°C, all dogs experience more strain. By –4°C, even medium-sized dogs may struggle, and at –6°C, coats become necessary for almost all smaller breeds. At –9°C and below, all dogs should only be outside briefly, with vulnerable breeds wearing a warm coat and returning indoors promptly.

Maxted added that choosing the right layers at the right temperature helps prevent discomfort. “When cold weather arrives, the point at which a dog needs a coat is lower than many owners expect, and choosing the right layer at the right time helps stop the walk becoming uncomfortable.”

He also stressed the importance of paying attention to wet weather. “Wet conditions make the cold bite harder, and rain, snow or slush can leave even well-coated breeds needing extra protection to stay comfortable,” he said.