What temperature is too cold to walk a dog?

According to the veterinary expert, temperatures below -4°C are potentially life-threatening for dogs, especially smaller breeds, puppies, and elderly canines. The vet recommends limiting outdoor time to quick toilet breaks when it's -12°C or colder.

How can dog owners keep their pets safe in cold weather?

The vet suggests purchasing practical coats and boots for dogs if the weather is really cold. Owners should also monitor their pets for signs of hypothermia and limit walks when temperatures drop below 4°C, especially for short-haired, small, or senior dogs.

What factors affect a dog's tolerance to the cold?

The vet explains that a dog's breed, age, and overall health condition can impact their ability to tolerate freezing temperatures. Larger breeds with thicker fur may handle slightly lower temperatures better than smaller, thin-coated pups.

Home / Lifestyle / Vet Warns: When It's Too Cold to Walk Your Dog Safely

Vet Warns: When It's Too Cold to Walk Your Dog Safely

14 Nov

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Summary

Vet shares temperature guidelines for safe dog walks
Smaller dogs, puppies, and elderly dogs at higher risk in cold
Wet dogs face greater hypothermia threat in freezing weather

Vet Warns: When It's Too Cold to Walk Your Dog Safely

On November 14, 2025, a veterinary expert issued guidance on when it becomes too cold to safely walk dogs. With freezing temperatures and potential snowfall expected across parts of the UK this week, the vet stressed the importance of limiting outdoor time for pets in severe conditions.

The expert explained that while exercise remains vital for dogs, venturing out in extreme cold can pose serious risks, especially for smaller breeds, puppies, and elderly canines. The vet provided a temperature scale to help owners determine when to skip walks: 15°C is considered safe, 7°C to 4°C is fine for most dogs but may require coats for smaller or thin-coated pups, 4°C to -1°C is potentially unsafe for short-haired, small, or senior dogs, and -4°C to -9°C is potentially life-threatening, particularly for smaller and younger pups. The vet warned that dogs who get wet face an even higher risk of hypothermia in freezing weather.

As a general rule, veterinary professionals advise against walking dogs when temperatures reach around -4°C or lower. However, factors like breed, age, and health condition can affect a dog's tolerance to the cold. Owners should exercise extra caution if their pet has any pre-existing medical issues.

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