Even when temperatures are dropping during winter and it’s freezing cold outside, most dogs will always look forward to outdoor excursions. Dogs with thick hair coats have a higher tolerance to the cold weather, however, most dogs won’t be capable of spending extended lengths of time during winter. There are several factors that can determine how long a dog can stay outside when it’s freezing cold. These factors include the dog’s hair coat type, breed, age, general health status, whether there is available shelter, whether the dog has been properly acclimated to the cold, and individual differences. Senior pets, dogs that are ill, small dogs, and those with short hair coats tend to have less tolerance to the cold and thus should spend only a short time outdoors during winter.
Sudden changes in your pet’s health and/or behavior should warrant a visit to your animal hospital Portland, OR.
