Cold Weather Safety for Dogs: Tips for Home & Daycare in Airdrie
Well, it’s winter in Canada (again)—and while some dogs think snow is the best invention ever, others would rather stay curled up on the couch. Either way, cold weather changes how we care for our pups, and it’s worth knowing the signs and strategies to keep them safe.
The Basics: How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs?
Dogs don’t sweat like humans. They cool themselves mostly through panting, and they’re more sensitive to both heat and cold than we are. Smaller dogs, puppies, seniors, and short‑haired breeds lose body heat quickly, while larger or double‑coated breeds may tolerate the cold longer. But no matter the breed, extreme temperatures can put stress on a dog’s body.
Veterinary guidance, including the Tufts Animal Care and Condition scale, notes that dogs are at risk when temperatures feel like –12°C or colder (including windchill). At that point, outdoor play should be limited and monitored closely.
What You Can Do at Home
Bathroom Breaks: Keep them short when temperatures dip below –15°C. Quick in, quick out. On milder days, let them enjoy longer pee breaks to stretch and sniff.
Winter Walks: Use the windchill as your guide. If it feels like –12°C or colder, shorten walks or skip them.
Paw Protection: Salt, ice, and cold pavement can irritate paws. Rinse or wipe them after walks, and consider booties for extra protection.
Hydration & Warmth: Dogs still need fresh water in winter, and cozy bedding away from drafts helps them warm up after being outside.
Know Your Dog: Huskies may love the snow, but puppies, seniors, and short‑haired breeds are more vulnerable. Always err on the side of caution.
Indoor Dog Activities for Winter
When the weather says “nope,” you can still keep your pup active indoors:
Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats for mental stimulation
Short training sessions to practice cues or tricks
Tug games or fetch in a hallway
Cozy cuddle time (yes, that counts!)
What We Do at Airdrie Puppy Pals
At Airdrie Puppy Pals, we follow the Tufts Animal Care and Conditioning scale to guide outdoor time. Bathroom breaks always happen, but if it’s colder than –15°C we keep them quick. For dog park or fun walk bookings, we switch to Dog School indoors — so pups still get exercise, mental enrichment, and one‑on‑one attention without the chill.
Our rule of thumb is simple: better safe than sorry. Even if a husky client says their dog can handle the cold, we follow the same protocol for every dog in our care. Consistency keeps everyone healthy, happy and safe.
Health and Happiness
Winter weather may be unpredictable, but your dog’s safety doesn’t have to be. With a few simple adjustments at home and consistent care at daycare you can keep your pup cozy, healthy, and happy all season long.
Looking for safe winter care in Airdrie? Learn more about our Dog Daycare program.
Resources
Tufts Animal Care and Condition (TACC) scale – Tufts University
PetMD: How Cold Is Too Cold for Your Dog? (updated Jan 2024)
ASPCA: Cold Weather Safety Tips
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association: Cold Weather and Pets (Feb 2023)
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Winter Safety Tips
