How Cold is Too Cold?

Feb 18, 2025 | 0 comments

Warning Signs:
Shaking (sometimes violent), Shallow breathing, Weakness, Low blood pressure, Dilated pupils, Coma Muscle stiffness, Blank stare, Pale or blue gums, Listlessness

Category: Dogs

A graphic showing the risks and levels of hypothermia in dogs as related to the external temperature

Symptoms of Hypothermia in Dogs

  • Shaking (sometimes violent)
  • Shallow breathing
  • Weakness
  • Low blood pressure
  • Dilated pupils
  • Coma Muscle stiffness
  • Blank stare
  • Pale or blue gums
  • Listlessness

Levels of Hypothermia in Dogs and How to Treat Them

Mild –

Mild cases may be treated at home

Moderate –

Moderate cases may also be treated successfully at home but the pet owner may decide to seek professional guidance

Severe –

In severe cases, the dog needs the immediate help of a professional veterinarian as his life is imminently threatened

Causes of Hypothermia in Dogs

Hypothermia can happen anytime your dog is exposed to cold, especially extreme temperatures. Take caution when exercising your dog in the winter. It can happen to dogs that live entirely out of doors in particular if they are not brought inside at least during inclement weather or do not have adequate shelter. A matted coat on a dog does not provide the same protection a well-groomed coat does. The mats allow wind and cold to get to the dog’s skin.  You can read more at: https://wagwalking.com/condition/hypothermia
Tags: cold, hypothermia, medical
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