Dog owners across the United Kingdom are being issued a critical reminder to perform a simple but vital check before venturing out for walks this week. The warning comes as the Met Office has issued alerts for snow and ice, with temperatures plunging below freezing in many regions.
The Hidden Dangers of Winter Walks
Experts are highlighting that a dog's fur coat does not make them immune to the harsh conditions. Ross Hallifax, a pet insurance specialist at Purely Pets, cautions against a common misconception. "Many owners assume that because dogs have fur, they’re naturally protected from the cold, but that’s not true," he stated. "Just like us, dogs can suffer from hypothermia and even chemical burns from winter road salt and grit."
Prolonged exposure to cold, particularly when combined with wet or windy weather, is a primary cause of hypothermia in canines. Moisture and wind strip away body heat rapidly, reducing the insulating effectiveness of a dog's coat. Contact with icy water can also dangerously lower a dog's core temperature in a short time.
How Cold Is Too Cold For Your Dog?
According to nutrition experts from Bella+Duke, there is no universal temperature rule, but clear guidelines exist. They suggest that when temperatures sit between 10°C and 7°C, some breeds may already require a coat or jacket for their walk. Once the mercury dips to around 5°C or lower, the risk of frostbite and hypothermia becomes real for many dogs.
Ross Hallifax advises owners to alter their walking schedule if possible. "If you can, avoid going out at the coldest times of the day and try to head out towards midday, when temperatures are likely to have risen slightly," he recommends.
Breeds at Higher Risk and Warning Signs
While all dogs need care, some are far more vulnerable. Smaller breeds with less body fat, such as Chihuahuas, Miniature Dachshunds, and Jack Russell Terriers, lose heat quickly. Similarly, short-haired and older dogs require extra attention. Breeds like whippets, greyhounds, and Yorkshire terriers are less suited to the cold and may benefit from a weatherproof, fleece-lined coat.
Owners must be vigilant for the signs of hypothermia, which include:
- Shivering
- Paleness
- Low energy or lethargy
- Bad coordination or stumbling
Urgent veterinary advice should be sought immediately if a dog shows any signs of distress.
"A dog’s fur can only protect them from so much cold weather, and they can get hypothermia if they become too cold and can’t warm up," Ross Hallifax concluded, emphasising that keeping dogs well-exercised in winter remains essential, but must be done safely and with appropriate precautions.
