Factors that may affect cold tolerance in dogs.

Factors that may affect cold tolerance in dogs:

A Dog’s Coat generally speaking, dogs with an undercoat (such as Alaskan Huskies, Labs and others) can play in the snow up to 30 minutes without harm, but even Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes can feel the effects of cold temperatures if they are not accustomed to the cold temperatures. Single-coated and short-coated dogs such as Boxers and Bullmastiffs have a low tolerance to cold weather, and a coat is recommended in temperatures approaching freezing. Remember that wind chill, rain, and snow can lower a dog’s temperature even further.

A Dog’s Age

Very young and very old dogs are also sensitive to cold temperatures, and may lack the agility and coordination to walk on icy surfaces. A boot/jacket combination is recommended for these dogs. Cold temperatures can also activate arthritis, so be sensitive to older dogs or dogs with health issues.

A Dog’s Weight

Dogs under 20 pounds are generally more susceptible to hypothermia. They have less fat and are generally closer to the ground, making them more prone to chill. For these breeds, full-coverage body protection, such as that found on our Cloud Chaser™ storm jacket, is recommended.

Symptoms of hypothermia in dogs:

• Shivering • Stiff muscles • Low pulse and respiration rate • Cold to touch (body temperature below 95°F or 35°C) • Lethargy which eventually leads to unconsciousness

Treatment of hypothermia in dogs:

1. Move animal to shelter 2. Cover with warm blankets 3. Give dog a warm liquid/sugar mixture to drink 4. Call your veterinarian

Prevention of hypothermia is key to avoiding injury. To keep your dog warm when the mercury falls, be sure to arm your dog with the essentials in cold weather gear. Our recommendations include Fido Fleece coats, Ruff Wear Grip Trex™ Boots, Bark’n Boot Liners™, and a Cloud Chaser™ or K9 Overcoat™ and 1Z Harness dog coat.

Visit: www.kooldawgtees.com for all of your Dog's Winter Apparel and Protection.