How cold is too cold for my dog outside? Does temp change hurt him?

Question

Hello, I would like to ask two quick questions about my dog and the cold weather please. My dog is a mixed breed ( Caucasian Shepherd and Labrador). He spends most of his time outside. Below what temperature should he be left inside the house? Also, is it bad for his health if he comes in and out of the house often? ( as in he spends a few hours at 77 degrees then a few hours at 10 degrees). Will this fluctuation of temperature hurt him? Thank you so much! Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 8 years and 5 months old | 110 lbs

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. Dogs can control there body temp quite a bit by how much air collects underneath the hair. Even short hairs can trap the air against the skin & keeps your pet warm like when you wear a puffy coat. As long as Rex seems happy outdoors & is not shivering, then he can stay out for quite a bit of time. But if you see shivering or he is pressed up against the house seeking warmth, bring him in. Anytime there is rain, or significant cold winds, especially if the temp outdoors is close to freezing, bring him indoors after just a short time outside. But if it is sunny, calm winds & temps are not particularly frigid, he can stay out for quite some time. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

How cold is too cold for my dog outside? Does temp change hurt him?

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