Most of the four-legged animals, including dogs, walk bare naked for their whole life. We often think that this is acceptable because of their toughness. But, their characteristic is what we have taken for granted. As the winter season is here, we should be mindful of some winter pet safety tips that your dog would definitely love.
Anatomically speaking, dogs have fur to coat them from heat and cold. Leather toe pads are also present to support their feet while walking. They also have tough built and, to include, a bold spirit. But, this doesn’t mean that they’re invincible to the elements of the outside sources.
All dogs are very vulnerable to cold weather. Included in this vulnerability are the greyhound, dachshund, beagle, Chinese crested, and most especially pitbulls. For this breed, it is very crucial to keep them warm in cold weathers. And for pet owners, it is important to have a knowledge about winter pet safety tips.
What Temperature Is Too Cold For A Pit Bull?
Temperatures in the 45° F/7°C and below are beginning to get uncomfortable for your Pit Bull. It would be my suggestion that a coat is needed at this point. When temperatures hit 32° F/0°C and below this will definitely be too cold for a Pit Bull without a coat.
As a general rule of thumb when it comes to my Pit Bull I know it is too cold for her to go without a coat, when it’s too cold for me to go without a coat. I live in a cold winter climate and regardless if she is going for a quick pee or a short walk, she wears a coat once it hits the 32° F/0°C temperature.
Once the extremely cold days come when it can get to -0° F/-17°C for several weeks here, we are outside for potty breaks only. These temperatures are too cold for a Pit Bull. This is where risk of hypothermia and frostbite become a real hazard regardless if your Pit Bull is wearing a coat or not.
Keep your dog inside as much as you can. If you live in a place with these kinds of cold winter weather temperatures. Potty breaks is about all you can safely do with your Pit Bull in this kind of weather.
Temperatures To Watch For With Pit Bulls
Typically your Pit Bull should be fine with cold weather up until about 45° F/7°C. Once the weather begins to drop below that you might notice your Pit Bull getting a little uncomfortable. When the temperature hits below 32°F/0°C small, skinnier, and older Pit Bulls will need some protection. By 20°F/-7°C it’s time for all dogs to get bundled up.
Monitor your Pit Bulls behaviors in cold weather. Not all climates are the same and temperature doesn’t always determine how cold it actually is for your dog. Some climates can be very damp, and though it only says 32°F/0°C on the weather app, it may feel much colder.
Alternatively if your Pit Bull is very active and running around in the cold weather, they may generate enough body heat to feel just fine. There are many such variables at play here. It is very important to keep an eye on your Pit Bull and look for signs they are not handling the cold well.
Extreme cold weather can very quickly lead to hypothermia and frostbite with your Pit Bull. Things like their ears, paws, and tails can get very cold, very quick. Frostbite is not something you want to risk on your pup.
If your Pit Bull is shivering, becoming lethargic, and/or is getting pale skin get them inside and warmed up immediately. These are the first signs of hypothermia.
Why do Pitbulls need a winter coat or sweater?
Pitbulls, in general, are not well-suited to handle the cold weather well. I explain this in detail in my guide to why Pitbulls get cold at night here, where I also discuss how to keep your dog warm in the cold weather, but here is the short version anyway (I still recommend checking the article).
In the winter, whether we’re talking about the American Pit Bull Terrier or other types of Pit Bulls like American Staffordshire Terriers, American Bullies, or Staffordshire Bull Terriers, they all require coats. There are a few things to think about when it comes to caring for your Pit Bull in the winter.
Pit Bulls are quite capable of handling most situations in life, but severe winter weather is one area where they are unequipped. The range of temperatures to which a specific Pit Bull breed can survive varies depending on a few factors.
Here are the factors that determine how well your Pitbull can handle the weather:
A healthy, young black Pit Bull may withstand the elements better than a white, unhealthy, emaciated senior Pit Bull. That dark dog will stay warmer on a lovely sunny day. That extra youth and body fat can also contribute to a little more heat production, making the dog more capable of handling the cold weather.
Pit Bulls do not have a thick double coat that keeps them warm in the winter. I usually say that if I’m going to be outside in just a shirt and shorts, my Pit Bull will most likely be as well.
FAQ
What temp is too cold for pitbulls?
Do pit bulls get cold in the winter?
When should I put a jacket on my pitbull?
Should I get my pitbull a jacket?