There are guidelines for the best indoor temperatures for humans in winter or summer, but what about our pets? While dogs, cats, reptiles and birds can regulate their temperature more efficiently than their human companions, even they have their limits. Read on for information about the best house temperature for pets.
How Cold Is Too Cold: Depends on the Dog
Just like with people, some dogs tolerate winter weather better than others. While one dog might be overjoyed to roll in the snow, another small dog might not even want to step foot outside. Here are some of the factors that affect cold tolerance:
The double-layered, thick coats of dog breeds like Siberian huskies, Newfoundlands, Alaskan malamutes, and Bernese mountain dogs tend to be the most cold-tolerant. On the other hand, dogs like Greyhounds, German shorthaired pointers, or American pit bull terriers who have short, thin coats will have a more difficult time maintaining a warm body temperature in colder weather.
Smaller dogs and toy breeds like Chihuahuas have a harder time in the cold. They tend to lose body heat faster than larger dogs. Deep snow can reach their chest and make them cold and wet, so they are more at risk in colder temperatures.
Thinner dogs generally get colder faster when temperatures drop than heavier dogs because body fat is a good insulator. BUT this doesn’t mean you should fatten your pup up for the winter! There are greater health risks for overweight dogs than any warmth benefit of a little extra fat. Making your dog overweight is animal cruelty.
Older dogs, puppies, and sick dogs have weaker immune systems and might not be able to generate or retain body heat compared to healthy dogs. These dogs normally need assistance to help stay warm, such as a dog coat or jacket.
If You See a Dog Left Out in the Cold
If you come across a dog left outside in low temperatures, especially for long periods of time, the HSUS recommends that you “politely let the owner know you’re concerned. Some people genuinely don’t know the risk that cold weather poses to their pets, and will be quick to correct any problems you address.”
If you are still concerned about the outdoor dog’s wellbeing, follow the HSUS steps to get the dog help: reporting wintertime neglect to help keep this pet safe. That dog needs to be inside a warm place to survive.
Many states have laws that protect dogs from being left outside in the doghouse in the cold and snow. Read up on your local area’s reporting procedures should you find an animal or outside dog in distress.
Dogs CAN Live Outdoors, Even in Winter
There are guidelines for the best indoor temperatures for humans in winter or summer, but what about our pets? While dogs, cats, reptiles and birds can regulate their temperature more efficiently than their human companions, even they have their limits. Read on for information about the best house temperature for pets.