Winter can be magical. The snowy walks, cozy nights, and extra snuggles with your furry friend. But when temperatures drop, many dog parents find themselves wondering the same thing:

How cold is too cold for my dog to be outside?

The truth is, cold weather affects dogs differently depending on their size, coat, age, and environment. Even dogs that love the snow can be at risk if conditions are't right. Here is everything you need to know to keep your pup safe outside this winter.

Cold Temperature Guidelines for Dogs

There's no single temperature that's unsafe for every dog, but these general guidelines can help you decide when it's time to head inside:

45°F and above

Most dogs are comfortable, especially during short outdoor breaks.

32-45°F

Some dogs (especially small, short-haired, senior, or puppy dogs) may begin to feel uncomfortable.

20-32°F

Many dogs can tolerate this briefly, but prolonged exposure can lead to cold stress. Cold stress occurs when the skin and internal body temperatures drop because the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. 

Below 20°F

Risk of hypothermia and frostbite increases significantly for most dogs.

Remember: temperature is only part of the equation. Wind, moisture, and surface conditions matter just as much.

What Makes Dogs Get Cold Faster Outside

Even if the temperature doesn't seem extreme, certain conditions can cause your dog to lose body heat quickly.

Cold Surfaces (Concrete, Asphalt, Ice)

Concrete and pavement absorb and hold cold temperatures. Standing or walking on frozen surfaces can:

• Pull heat from your dog's body
• Cause discomfort or pain in paw pads
• Increase the risk of frostbite with prolonged exposure

Wet Conditions

Snow, slush, puddles, or rain make cold weather more dangerous.

• Wet fur loses insulation
• Water speeds up heat loss
• Damp paws are more vulnerable to cracking and irritation

Wind Chill

Wind can make it feel much colder than the actual temperature.

• Strong wind strips warmth from your dog's coat
• Even thick-fur dogs can struggle in windy conditions

Standing Still Too Long

Dogs stay warmer when they are moving.

• Waiting outside, standing in one spot, or sitting on cold ground increases heat loss
• Potty breaks that drag on can quickly become unsafe

Age, Size & Health

Certain dogs are more vulnerable to cold:

• Puppies (poor temperature regulation)
• Senior dogs (joint pain, slower circulation)
• Small dogs (lose heat faster)
• Dogs with arthritis or health conditions

Signs Your Dog Is Too Cold

Always watch your dog for signs they're uncomfortable or at risk:

• Shivering or trembling
• Lifting paws off the ground
• Whining or seeming anxious
• Slowing down or refusing to walk
• Cold ears, tail, or paws

Winter Safety Tips for Dogs Outside

Keep Outdoor Time short

Even cold-tolerant dogs shouldn't stay out for long in freezing temperatures. Quick potty breaks are best when it's very cold.

Protect Their Paws

Snow, ice, slat, and de-icing chemicals can irritate paw pads.

• Wipe paws after every walk
• Check for cracks or redness
• Avoid heavily treated sidewalks when possible

Dry Them Off Right Away

Moisture speeds up heat loss from the body.

• Dry paws, legs, and belly when coming inside
• Pay extra attention to areas where snow sticks

Don't Assume Fur Is Enough

Thick coats help, but they aren't foolproof.

• Wind, wetness, and cold surfaces still affect heavily furred dogs
• Jackets can help some dogs retain body heat during quick trips outside

Trust Your Instincts

If it feels uncomfortably cold for you, it's likely too cold for your dog.

• Watch their behavior
• When in doubt, choose warmth and safety

The Bottom Line

Winter weather can change quickly, and dogs rely on us to know when conditions aren't safe. Temperature, wind, wet surfaces, and exposure time all play a role in how cold your dog feels outside.

Keeping outdoor time short, staying aware of conditions, and watching for signs of discomfort can make all the difference.

Cold winter days when less outdoor time, but that doesn't mean your pup has to miss out on play or enrichment time. 

That's where Billie Bites come in.

Our treats are made with simple, wholesome ingredients and are perfect for:

• Indoor training sessions
• Mental enrichment games
• Rewarding quick potty breaks on cold days
• Treating your pup after braving the winter cold
• Or just because they are a good boy/girl!

When it's too cold to linger outside, a little indoor fun (and a tasty reward) goes a long way.

Click here to shop Billie Bites!

Keeping Learning with Good Boy Billie

Want more tips to help your pup stay happy healthy year-round? Check out some of our other Good Boy Billie blog posts:

How to Protect Your Dog's Paws in Winter

Before heading outside this winter, make sure your pup's paws are protected from cold temps, ice, and salt

10 Healthy and Safe Snacks for Your Pup

Looking for everyday snack ideas beyond the holidays? Here are 10 healthy and safe snacks your pup will love year-round.

7 Grooming Tips Every New Dog Owner Should Know

If you're a newer dog parent, don't miss our grooming tips to keep your pup feeling their best year-round.

How Dogs Positively Impact Our Mental Health

Dogs can help lower stress, reduce feelings on loneliness, and encourage healthier routines. Read more about how dogs paw-stively impact our mental health!