Now That We’re Getting the Cool Weather… How Do You Know If Your Dog Is Cold?

As the cooler months settle in, many dog owners find themselves wondering — does my dog need a coat? Is he cold at night? Should I be worried if she’s curled up on the tiles?

At Jordan Dog Training, we often get asked how to tell if a dog is feeling the cold. While some dogs seem to thrive in the chill, others start looking for warm laps and sunny spots as soon as the temperature dips. So how do you know when it’s time to step in and help keep them cosy?

This guide explores how to tell if your dog is cold, how different breeds cope, when jackets are useful, and ways to keep your dog comfortable through winter — especially in an Australian climate.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Cold

Dogs can’t tell us with words when they’re chilly, but they often give us plenty of clues with their behaviour and body language. Here are some of the most common signs:

🔹 Shivering or trembling

Just like us, shivering is a clear sign your dog is trying to warm themselves up. If you notice trembling during a walk or while resting indoors, it could be time to layer up.

🔹 Curling up tightly

A dog that’s cold will often sleep in a tight ball, sometimes with their nose tucked under their tail. It’s a natural way to conserve body heat.

🔹 Seeking warmth

Snuggling into blankets, curling up next to you on the couch, gravitating towards sunny spots, or nestling into beds and cushions — these are all signs your dog is looking for a bit of extra warmth.

🔹 Lifting their paws off cold ground

On brisk morning walks or cold pavements, some dogs will hold up one or more paws to avoid prolonged contact with the cold surface. This can be a sign the ground is uncomfortably cold.

🔹 Cold ears or belly

Touch the inside of your dog’s ears or feel their belly — if they feel noticeably cold to the touch, your dog might be feeling the chill more than you realised.

🔹 Reluctance to go outside

If your normally enthusiastic dog suddenly hesitates at the door or wants to turn back early on a walk, it might be due to the temperature — especially if it’s windy, wet, or frosty.

🔹 Low energy indoors

Dogs that feel cold may conserve energy and sleep more, or seem less willing to move around. This can sometimes be mistaken for laziness but might actually be discomfort.

Do All Dogs Feel the Cold the Same Way?

Not at all. While some breeds — like Huskies, Malamutes, or Great Pyrenees — are built for snow and seem to thrive in cool weather, others are much more sensitive to cold conditions. Dogs more likely to feel the cold include:

• Puppies and senior dogs
• Short-coated breeds (e.g., Greyhounds, Whippets, Staffies)
• Lean dogs with little body fat
• Small breeds and toy dogs
• Dogs recovering from illness or surgery
• Dogs who are not used to colder climates (e.g., rescue dogs from warmer regions)

Even fluffy breeds can get cold, especially if they’re wet or if the weather is particularly windy. It’s important to look at the individual dog, not just the breed.

How to Choose the Right Dog Coat

A well-fitted coat can make a big difference for dogs that feel the cold. But not all coats are created equal.

Here’s what to look for:

• ✅ Snug but flexible fit — it shouldn’t restrict movement
• ✅ Easy to put on and off — Velcro or clip closures are best
• ✅ Weather-appropriate material
  • Fleece for dry cold
  • Waterproof for wet, windy days
• ✅ Coverage — especially the chest and belly
• ✅ Breathable fabric to prevent overheating during activity
• ✅ Reflective trim or bright colours for visibility in low light

Avoid anything too bulky or heavy — dogs still need to be able to run, sniff, toilet, and stretch comfortably.

Night-time Considerations

Even if your dog seems fine during the day, night-time can be a different story. Here’s how to keep your dog warm overnight:

• 🛏 Elevated or insulated beds to keep them off cold tiles
• 🧸 Soft blankets or heating pads (make sure they’re pet-safe)
• 🚪 Keep them indoors during very cold or windy nights
• 🥶 Watch for signs they’re waking up cold — restlessness, scratching at doors, or suddenly changing sleep spots

If your dog sleeps in a laundry or back room, ensure it’s draught-free and that bedding is warm enough for the coldest part of the night.

Don’t Forget Their Feet: Paw Care in Winter

Cold ground and wet conditions can be harsh on your dog’s paws. Keep an eye out for:

• 🐾 Paw lifting or limping
• 🐾 Cracked pads or redness
• 🐾 Ice balls or wet clumps in fluffy foot fur

You can help by:

• Wiping paws dry after every walk
• Using paw balm if pads seem dry or cracked
• Trimming long hair around the pads to reduce clumping
• Trying dog booties if your dog is sensitive to cold ground

Behavioural Signs That Might Be Cold-Related

Some changes in behaviour might be mistaken for being ‘off’ or moody but could actually be signs of discomfort due to the cold:

• More barking, restlessness, or clinginess
• Avoiding certain areas or sleeping in unusual spots
• Less interest in food or play
• Growling when moved or touched (especially if they’re sore)

Dogs with arthritis or joint issues often feel more stiff or uncomfortable in cold weather. If you notice these signs, it’s worth checking in with your vet.

Australian Winters: Do Dogs Really Need Jackets Here?

While most of Australia doesn’t get snow, our winter mornings and evenings can still be icy — especially in southern states, regional areas, and inland Queensland. Even in warmer cities like Brisbane, the early morning chill can be sharp enough to warrant a jacket for many dogs.

Breed, age, coat type, health status, and even recent grooming (like a short clip) all make a difference in how your dog feels the cold.

Quick Reference Table

Sign	Possible Meaning	What to Do
Shivering or trembling	Cold discomfort	Add a coat, bring inside
Curling tightly in bed	Conserving body heat	Offer extra warmth
Lifting paws	Cold or painful ground	Walk later, try booties
Cold ears or belly	Body is losing heat	Provide blankets or coat
Low energy indoors	Cold-related lethargy	Warm the environment
Hesitating to go outside	Wind or chill aversion	Keep walks short and warm

Tips for Keeping Your Dog Comfortable in Cold Weather

• 🐕‍🦺 Provide a warm, draught-free bed off cold floors
• 🌞 Let them choose — some still enjoy cool tiles after exercise
• 👕 Use jackets on cold walks for short-coated or older dogs
• 🧴 Protect their paws from cold, wet surfaces
• 🛁 Dry them thoroughly after baths or wet weather
• 📋 Keep an eye on behaviour — they’ll often show you if they’re uncomfortable

Our online store stocks a range of natural, healthy, and enriching treats to keep your dog happy and mentally stimulated indoors on cold or rainy days.

Final Thoughts

Every dog is different — and while some love winter zoomies in the crisp air, others would much prefer to be under a blanket until spring arrives. By watching your dog’s behaviour and adjusting their environment when needed, you can help them stay happy, healthy, and warm through the colder months.

Still not sure if your dog needs a jacket? Wondering how to set up a warmer bed space? Reach out to our team or have a chat with your vet — especially if your dog has health concerns or is slowing down with age.

You can also explore our other helpful blogs, like:

• How to Keep Senior Dogs Comfortable
• Common Winter Hazards for Dogs
• Signs of Pain in Dogs

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended as general guidance and is based on our experience as dog trainers and behaviourists. It is not veterinary advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, wellbeing, or mobility, we always recommend speaking with your vet to ensure the best care for your dog.