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Cold weather dog walk checklist.

Last updated November 6, 2026 · Built from the sources listed on this page. See our editorial policy.

A quick checklist for winter walks, based on public guidance from veterinary schools and the AVMA. Below freezing, Washington State University vets say most dogs, especially thin-coated ones, should not stay out more than 10 to 15 minutes without a warmer space, and Purdue vets say puppies and short-haired pets should come inside below 40°F (about 4°C). No single number fits every dog, so use this list to check your own.

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Before you head out

• Know your dog's tolerance: puppies, small dogs and short-haired dogs are more vulnerable to the cold.^{2, 3}
• Check the temperature. Purdue veterinarians say puppies and short-haired pets should come inside when it drops below 40°F (about 4°C).²
• Consider a sweater or dog coat for small, short-coated or cold-bothered dogs, and use a dry one each time, since a wet coat makes a dog colder.^{2, 3, 4}
• Consider booties, and make sure they fit.^{1, 4}
• Consider keeping the hair between the paw pads short and applying paw balm before each walk.³

On the walk

• Keep the walk short when it is very cold.^{3, 4}
• Below freezing, WSU says most dogs, especially thin-coated ones, should not stay out more than 10 to 15 minutes without a warmer space.¹
• Watch for shivering, slowing or stopping, whining, anxiety or weakness, and get your dog back inside quickly if you see them.^{3, 4}
• Check longer-haired dogs' feet for ice and snow.³
• Stay away from frozen ponds, lakes and streams.⁴

When you get home

• Wipe or wash your dog's feet, legs and belly to remove de-icing products, antifreeze and other chemicals. Salt and de-icer can hurt paw pads.^{2, 4}
• Check the paws for signs of irritation or injury.⁴
• Store antifreeze out of reach and clean up spills right away.³
• Make sure your dog wears a collar with up-to-date ID, and keep your details current in the microchip registry.⁴

How cold is too cold to walk a dog?

There is no single number for every dog. Below freezing, most dogs, especially thin-coated ones, should not stay out more than 10 to 15 minutes without a warmer space, and puppies and short-haired pets should come inside below 40°F (about 4°C).^{1, 2}

What are the signs a dog is too cold?

Shivering, whining, anxiety, slowing down or stopping and weakness are signs of hypothermia, so get your dog back inside quickly if you see them.^{3, 4}

Want the reasons behind each item? Read How cold is too cold for dogs?.

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