It’s incredibly important to take your dog out for walks regularly, as it provides them with physical excercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities to socialise with other animals. But what do you do during the winter if it’s really cold?
In the winter in the UK, temperatures typically range between 2 and 7 degrees, and can even drop below freezing point in some places. And no one feels the cold more than our furry friends.
As it’s National Walking the Dog Day (February 22), now is as good a time as any to familiarise yourself with when it’s too cold to walk your dog, the signs and symptoms of hypothermia, and what advice you should be following.
When is it too cold to walk your dog?
Dave Tweedle, who works for Bath Veterinary Group, took to Pet Health Club’s TikTok page to explain when it’s too cold to walk your dog. “Anything above 15 degrees is safe to walk your dog in,” Dave the vet explained, adding that this advice is only meant for pets in the UK. “It’s the perfect temperature,” he added.
Meanwhile, “7 to 4 degrees” is fine for “most dogs” to be walked in, according to the vet. He continued: “However, if you have a small dog, a puppy or a thin-coated dog, they may need a coat.”
If it’s “4 to -1 degrees” it’s “potentially unsafe for short-haired dogs, small dogs, puppies and elderly dogs,” he explained. In this case, you should “limit walks and look for signs of hypothermia”.
Although we don’t see “-4 to -9 degrees” very often in the UK, it’s worth bearing in mind that it’s “potentially life-threatening” for dogs – particularly smaller dogs, puppies and elderly dogs. “If the dog is wet, the risk is higher”.
If it’s “-12 degrees and under”, it’s counted as “severe risk to all dogs” and “outdoor time should be limited to quick toilet breaks only”, he warned.
What are the symptoms of hypothermia in dogs?
Hypothermia is when an animal’s temperature dogs dangerously low, and if it’s not treated quickly, it can cause the body to shut down – and there’s risk of death.
According to the charity PDSA, the symptoms of hypothermia include:
- Shivering
- Drowsiness, confusion and clumsiness
- Pale gums
- Loss of consciousness/collapse and coma
If you think your dog is suffering from hypothermia, it’s important to administer first and and call your vet immediately.
You should dry them with a towel if they are wet, and warm them. up by putting blankets over and under them. You should slowly increase the temperature around them – but don’t do it too quickly.
It’s also a good idea to try to give them some lukewarm (not hot) water, if they are awake. They should always be taken to a vet to be checked.
