Factors That Affect Your Dog in the Cold

1. Factors That Affect Your Dog in the Cold Some dogs are better-equipped to handle cold winter weather than others. It’s important to consider your dog’s health and wellbeing when the temperatures dip! Here, your veterinarian Aurora, CO tells you about three main factors that affect how your dog handles the cold. His Coat Type Some dogs have thick, double-layered coats that tolerate cold extremely well, like Siberian Huskies and the Newfoundland. But others have thin, single-layer coats, like Dachshunds or Greyhounds. For thin-coated dogs, a sweater or coat is a must during the winter months! His Size In general, small dogs get cold more easily than large dogs. Small pups have a larger surface-area to volume ratio—basically, they have more skin through which they can lose heat. So, small dogs would also do well with some hefty winter clothing to help keep them warm. His Age and Health A healthy adult dog is the best equipped to deal with the cold. Elderly dogs, young puppies, or dogs with compromised immune systems are just the opposite—they need extra help staying protected from the cold winter weather. Want to learn more about your dog’s health and wellness needs this winter? Contact your animal hospital Aurora, CO right away.