Is It Too Cold to Walk Your Dog? Check This Chart To Find Out

Dogs don’t realize that it is cold outside so they may give you the signal that it is time for a walk, even if the temperatures are bone-chilling.

We may, out of kindness, decide to take the hint and bundle up but unfortunately, our dogs don’t always have the same consideration.

If you’ve ever wondered if it was too cold to walk your dog, then we have a chart that is just right for you.

It’s made by Fetch by The Dodo and you’re going to want to keep it handy for times when Fido wants to go outside but you aren’t sure if it is right for him or not.

Thanks to research by Tufts University, we know how dogs respond to cold weather conditions and it has a lot to do with more than the temperature, it has to do with how they are built. If you’re ready to take your furry friend for a walk, the reference chart can let you know if it is a good idea.

Serious problems can occur for small or medium-sized dogs if the temperature is under 40°F. It wouldn’t take long for them to suffer from problems such as hypothermia and even frostbite.

If you have a larger dog, they may be able to last for longer but you should still be cautious, especially if the temperature is 30°F or lower.

What can you do if your dog wants to go for a walk and it is cold? Perhaps you could get them some clothing, such as a sweater. Your pooch won’t even care if it is an ugly sweater!

NPR also chimes in on the subject, reminding you that you should pay particular attention to your dog’s paws. Not only are they susceptible to colder temperatures, but they also are exposed to chemicals that may be on the sidewalk to keep ice from freezing.

Of course, it’s impossible to come up or something that is going to be right for every dog out there but with a guide like this, you can at least have an idea of what you should be doing. Your dog will thank you for it. You can see the chart here.