Dogs, like humans, are sensitive to extreme weather. While their fur may offer some protection, they are not immune to the effects of high heat or freezing cold. Whether you’re living in a region with harsh winters or facing summer heatwaves, it’s important to know how to adapt your dog’s routine, shelter, hydration, and exercise to keep them healthy and safe.
Unlike humans, dogs cannot remove a layer of clothing or ask for water. They rely entirely on you to notice when they’re uncomfortable—and to take steps to protect them. This article will guide you through the best practices for caring for your dog in both extreme heat and extreme cold.
Why Weather Management Matters
Temperature extremes can lead to serious health risks for dogs, including:
- Heatstroke
- Dehydration
- Burned paw pads
- Frostbite
- Hypothermia
- Respiratory issues (especially in flat-faced breeds)
Some dogs are more vulnerable than others. Puppies, senior dogs, small breeds, dogs with short hair, and those with underlying health conditions are especially at risk.
Adjusting your dog’s care depending on the season is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Caring for Dogs During Extreme Heat
High temperatures can be dangerous, even deadly, for dogs. Heatstroke can set in quickly and without warning, especially in humid climates. Dogs do not sweat like humans; they cool themselves mainly by panting, which is less effective when the air is hot or moist.
Recognize Signs of Heat Stress
Be alert to the following symptoms:
- Heavy panting
- Lethargy
- Drooling
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Staggering or confusion
If you notice any of these, move your dog to a cool area immediately and contact a vet.
Keep Walks Short and Strategic
- Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening, when the temperature is lowest.
- Avoid walking on hot pavement, which can burn paw pads. Test the ground with your hand: if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
- Stick to shaded routes and grassy areas.
Prioritize Hydration
Always keep fresh, cool water available:
- Bring a portable water bottle and bowl during walks.
- Refill water bowls more often than usual.
- Add ice cubes to water bowls indoors.
- Offer hydrating snacks like frozen dog-friendly fruit (e.g., blueberries, watermelon).
Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
Even with windows cracked, the interior of a parked car can reach deadly temperatures in minutes. Dogs should never be left alone in cars during hot weather—no exceptions.
Create a Cool Environment Indoors
- Use fans or air conditioning to regulate indoor temperature.
- Provide cooling mats or damp towels for your dog to lie on.
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day.
- Provide multiple spots for your dog to rest comfortably.
Grooming for Hot Weather
Avoid shaving double-coated dogs—it can actually reduce their ability to regulate temperature. Instead:
- Brush regularly to remove excess undercoat.
- Trim fur on the belly and paws, if appropriate.
- Avoid overbathing, which can dry out the skin.
Caring for Dogs During Extreme Cold
Cold weather poses a different set of challenges. Even thick-coated breeds can suffer in freezing temperatures, especially if exposed for long periods without shelter.
Watch for Signs of Cold-Related Distress
Look for:
- Shivering
- Whining
- Limping or favoring paws
- Lethargy
- Pale gums or skin
- Refusing to walk or lying down during walks
These are signs your dog is too cold and may be entering hypothermia territory.
Modify Outdoor Time
- Keep walks short and frequent rather than long.
- Avoid walking when the temperature is dangerously low (especially below freezing with wind).
- Allow dogs to relieve themselves and return indoors quickly.
Dress for the Weather
Some dogs benefit from wearing a coat or sweater:
- Short-haired breeds (like Chihuahuas, Greyhounds)
- Senior dogs or dogs with arthritis
- Small breeds with low body fat
Boots can protect sensitive paws from snow, ice, and salt—but not all dogs tolerate them. Introduce them slowly and use positive reinforcement.
Protect the Paws
Ice and salt can crack paw pads and cause pain. Protect your dog’s paws by:
- Applying paw balm or wax before walks
- Washing and drying paws after walks
- Checking for cuts or ice between the toes
Keep Them Warm Indoors
Make your home a cozy retreat:
- Provide warm bedding, away from drafts or tile floors
- Allow access to soft blankets or dog-safe heating pads
- Limit time near open flames or heaters to avoid burns
Never leave dogs in unheated garages or porches during winter.
Adjust Feeding and Activity Levels
Weather changes can affect your dog’s metabolism and energy needs.
In summer:
- Dogs may eat less naturally
- Avoid feeding before or immediately after exercise
- Use feeding puzzles for mental stimulation indoors
In winter:
- Some dogs may require slightly more calories, especially if they’re active outside
- Others may need less if their activity drops—monitor weight
- Engage in indoor games and enrichment if outdoor time is limited
Avoid overfeeding during either season, as seasonal weight gain is common when routines change.
Special Considerations by Breed
Some dogs need extra attention in extreme weather due to physical characteristics:
Flat-faced breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs)
- Prone to breathing issues in the heat
- Limit exertion and watch for signs of overheating
Thin-coated breeds (e.g., Dobermans, Whippets)
- Feel cold more quickly—need sweaters, indoor warmth
Heavy-coated breeds (e.g., Huskies, Malamutes)
- More tolerant of cold, but can still overheat
- Groom carefully to avoid matting and allow air circulation
Senior dogs
- Less able to regulate body temperature
- Joints may stiffen in cold; may struggle with overheating due to slower metabolism
Emergency Planning for Weather Extremes
Unexpected weather events—heatwaves, snowstorms, power outages—can affect your ability to care for your dog.
Have a pet emergency plan ready:
- Extra food and water on hand
- Battery-operated fans or blankets
- Evacuation plans that include pet-friendly accommodations
- ID tags and microchip information up to date
Being proactive ensures your dog is never caught unprotected in extreme conditions.
Final Thoughts
Extreme weather doesn’t have to compromise your dog’s health or happiness. With the right adjustments and careful observation, your dog can thrive year-round—indoors and outdoors.
Caring for a dog through hot summers and freezing winters means being their voice and protector when conditions get tough. By tuning in to their behavior and tailoring your routines, you ensure they stay safe, comfortable, and by your side in every season.