Yes, Dogs Can Get Hypothermia Too — Here’s How to Tell

4 min read • By Leena Chitnis, Founder, Timberdog

Most of us wouldn’t dream of leaving the house in the dead of winter without layering up. But what about our dogs? While they may seem built for the cold with their fur coats, the truth is, dogs can and do get hypothermia. And unlike us, they can’t tell us when they’re too cold. It's crucial we recognize the signs of canine hypothermia, whether we are just a few miles from home or out in the country backpacking with our dogs.

What Exactly Is Hypothermia in Dogs?

Hypothermia happens when a dog’s body temperature drops below the normal range of 101–102.5°F (38–39.2°C). Anything below 99°F (37.2°C) is cause for concern. If it dips below 95°F (35°C), your dog is in serious trouble—at this point, their body is losing heat faster than it can generate, and their organs may begin to shut down.

Certain breeds are more resistant to the cold than others. Huskies and Malamutes, for example, have thick double coats designed for frigid temperatures. But even they have their limits. Dogs with short coats—like Chihuahuas, Greyhounds, and Pit Bulls—lose heat quickly, making them much more susceptible. Smaller dogs also struggle because they have a higher surface-area-to-body-mass ratio, meaning they lose heat faster than bigger breeds.

Read more about dog hair vs. fur here.

Signs Your Dog May Be Suffering from Hypothermia

Hypothermia isn’t always obvious at first. Dogs are wired to endure discomfort without complaint, so it’s up to us to spot the signs before it becomes life-threatening.

Here’s what to look for:

• Shivering that doesn’t stop – Just like us, dogs shiver to generate heat. If the shivering is constant or intense, it’s a sign their body is struggling to maintain its temperature.
• Lethargy or weakness – If your dog suddenly slows down, stops walking, or seems reluctant to move, they may be conserving energy due to the cold.
• Cold paws, ears, or tail – If these extremities feel ice-cold to the touch, circulation is being redirected to vital organs—an early sign of hypothermia.
• Slow or shallow breathing – As body temperature drops, so does respiratory function. If your dog’s breathing becomes slow or labored, they need help immediately.
• Dilated pupils and confusion – A hypothermic dog may seem disoriented, struggle to focus, or even appear unresponsive. This means their body temperature has dropped to dangerous levels.
• Blue or pale gums – This is a sign of poor circulation and oxygen deprivation, which can quickly lead to organ failure.

How to Warm Up a Hypothermic Dog (Safely)

If you suspect your dog has hypothermia, act fast—but gently. Warming them up too quickly can shock their system, so it’s crucial to take a gradual approach.

1. Get them inside immediately. If that’s not possible (ie, you're camping and all you've got is a tent), move them to a sheltered area and wrap them in a warm blanket or sleeping bag.
2. Dry them off if they’re wet. Wet fur accelerates heat loss, making hypothermia worse. Use a towel to gently pat them dry—avoid rubbing, as it can damage their cold-sensitive skin.
3. Wrap them in warm blankets. Use a heated blanket if you have one, or wrap warm (not hot) water bottles in towels and place them near their body (never directly on their skin).
4. Use body heat. If you’re in an emergency situation without heating sources, snuggling your dog close to your body can help transfer warmth.
5. Offer lukewarm fluids if they’re alert. Warm (but not hot) bone broth or water can help warm them internally.
6. Check their temperature. If it’s below 99°F and not rising, or if they’re becoming unresponsive, seek veterinary care immediately.

Severe hypothermia can lead to frostbite, unconsciousness, or even heart failure, so never assume they’ll “warm up on their own.”

Frostbite: The Silent Companion to Hypothermia

Hypothermia and frostbite often go hand in hand. When a dog’s body gets too cold, it prioritizes keeping vital organs warm, reducing blood flow to the paws, ears, and tail. The result? Frostbite.

Frostbite can be tricky to detect at first because the affected area may be numb. Common signs include:

• Pale, gray, or bluish skin on the ears, paws, or tail
• Skin that feels hard or frozen to the touch
• Swelling or blisters appearing after rewarming
• Pain or sensitivity when touched

If you suspect frostbite, do not rub or massage the area—this can cause more damage. Instead, use warm (never hot) water or compresses to slowly rewarm the affected area, and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Prevention: Keeping Your Dog Safe in Cold Weather

The best treatment for hypothermia? Prevention. Here’s how to keep your pup safe in freezing temperatures:

• Know your dog’s cold tolerance. Not all dogs are built for winter. If your dog has a short coat, is a small breed, or is a senior, keep outdoor time short.
• Invest in solid gear, especially if you're camping or backpacking. A well-fitted dog coat and insulated booties can go a long way in keeping your pup warm.
• Limit exposure to cold and wind. Wind chill makes freezing temperatures even more dangerous, so avoid prolonged outdoor exposure when it’s especially blustery.
• Keep walks short and sweet. If you wouldn’t stay outside without gloves, your dog probably shouldn’t either.
• Always dry them off after being outside. Even a little moisture can accelerate heat loss, so towel-dry them thoroughly.

Bottom Line

Dogs may seem resilient, but they’re not immune to the cold. Hypothermia is a real risk in freezing temperatures, but knowing the signs—and how to respond—can save your pup’s life.

So, the next time you bundle up for winter weather, don’t forget about your four-legged friend. A warm coat, shorter walks, and plenty of cozy blankets inside can keep them safe, happy, and ready for many more adventures to come.

What if your dog is hot? Here's how to tell the signs of canine heatstroke.

Photo credit: David Pohl