Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
She also gives a number of tips on how to protect you furry friend.
Snow-covered streets may look inviting, but cold weather can quickly become risky for pets. As winter grips many regions, owners are questioning how long dogs can safely stay outdoors.
Fortunately Jill, a licensed veterinary technician, has shared a practical video aimed at helping people recognise when cold conditions turn dangerous for their animals.
Cold weather risks
Jill explains that dogs tolerate winter differently depending on several factors. Breed, size and coat type all influence how well an animal handles freezing temperatures.
Larger dogs with thick fur and high energy levels often cope better than small or short-haired breeds.
She also stressed the importance of understanding a dog’s behaviour. Some animals signal discomfort clearly, while others push on despite being cold.
“It’s pretty simple, [you’ve] just got to pay attention to their body language. The size, the breed, the health, the wellness and the physical condition of your dog is what determines whether they can be out here and enjoy this or not,” Jill said.
Emergency signs
One of the most serious winter dangers is frostbite – a condition that “happens when your skin freezes after being in very cold temperatures.”
In the event of a frostbite attack, the affected skin should be warmed quickly and medical help sought.
Jill said frostbite in dogs commonly appears on ear tips, tails, noses, paw pads and the underbelly. “It can change the normal colour of your dog’s skin to a white a pale colour, or even a bluish colour,” she explained.
“This is an emergency and you need to get them inside – and if they do have frostbite, it’s a good idea to visit the veterinarian,” she added.
Keeping dogs safe
Jill said dogs still need exercise in winter, alongside “fresh water, warm bedding, good food [and] activity.” However, she warned that extreme cold limits safe outdoor time.
“If you take your pet outside and the air hurts your face… you probably shouldn’t leave your dog out for more than 10 or 15 minutes,” she said, noting that breeds like boxers often require extra clothing.
She also urged owners to watch for red paws, shivering, runny noses or dogs refusing to move, and to use pet-safe ice melt products to avoid poisoning.
You can watch Jill’s entire video on YouTube here (opens new tab).
Sources: YouTube, NHS
