How Cold is Too Cold for a Pitbull? Comprehensive Guide 2022
Dogs are susceptible to the cold just as humans are, and temperature extremes can be dangerous for them. Especially Pitbulls because they have a very thick coat of fur. So how cold is too cold for a pitbull? And what should you do if your dog is exposed to extreme weather or temperatures? These are most of the commonly asked questions by pitbull owners.
The simple answer is that if your pitbull is shivering or showing any other sign of being cold, so it’s too cold. Without any ado, let’s take a closer look at what temperature is too cold for Pitbull?
How Cold is Too Cold for a Pitbull?
As the temperature starts to drop, you need to monitor your dog’s behavior. The environmental temperature should never be 40-45F (5-7C) or lower. If your pitbull is shivering at this temperature then they are too cold.
As the temperature starts to drop under 35F (2-3C), you should wear warm clothing, and put on a heavy coat before taking your dog out in the cold. Any exposure to extremely cold weather for an extended period of time should be avoided.
Also, remember that if the temperature rises above 70F (20C), your dog may overheat. Overheating can lead to heatstroke, which is equally dangerous for them as it can be deadly.
Consult with your vet before taking your pet outside in cold weather. If you see any of the signs mentioned above or notice them shivering uncontrollably, bring your pet to the vet immediately.
At last, we hope that this information will help you to understand what is the safe temperature for pitbull?
How to Recognize if Your Pitbull is Too Cold?
There are some signs that will show if your dog is experiencing hypothermia mentioned below that will help you to recognize if your pitbull is too cold.
1. Shivering
Shivering is the primary sign of cold exposure. If you notice your pitbull shivering, it’s too cold for them. As your pet gets colder their shivering will get violent, and that is when they are in danger of frostbite or hypothermia setting in.
2. Signs of Hypothermia
If your pitbull’s shivering is getting worse, they are sweating, and their skin looks pale or even bluish in color. Even if the blue color is not accompanied by coldness or shivering, it means that your pet is hypothermic. Hypothermia can lead to shock and death.
3. Signs of Frostbite
Frostbite is the condition of dead body tissue resulting from exposure to extreme cold. If your pitbull’s nose, ears, tail, or any other part of their body appears white or very pale in color it means that they are suffering from frostbite.
Most dogs get frostbite on the ear tips, tailhead, scrotum, and paws. And if you notice these signs in your pet even before the appearance of frostbite on their skin then it already indicates some serious internal damage due to hypothermia.
How to Keep Your Pitbull Warm?
Even if you have a thick coat of fur yourself does not mean that you cannot catch a cold or become vulnerable to extreme temperatures too. That said pit bulls are just like any other dog, and they will suffer in the cold. This is why you should make special arrangements to keep your pitbull warm during the winter months.
1. Limit their exposure to the cold
You should start this as early as possible if you know that your pet will be exposed to extreme cold on a daily basis. For example, if you live in a place where it snows regularly, then you should start this process before winter even starts.
2. Keep them indoors
Keeping your pitbull indoors reduces the risk of exposure to cold drastically. This way they can stay warm and safe without any chance of frostbite or hypothermia setting in. However, you should not keep them indoors all day long. Let them out in the yard or backyard so that they can run around and stretch their legs. You can let them inside only during the night when it’s really cold outside.
3. Keep them warm with dog thicker coats
You should definitely invest in a good quality coat for your pet if you know they are going to be exposed to extreme cold. Dog coats come with an anti-slip and adjustable design that makes sure that your dog can move around easily without throwing off their coat. At the same time, coats keep them warm during cold nights and snowy days.
4. Consider a fenced yard
You should definitely consider getting a fenced backyard if you have to keep your pet outdoors during the snowy season. This will not only protect them from being hit by vehicles but also reduce their exposure to cold weather.
5. Invest in a well-insulated dog house
Your pitbull’s dog house should have nice insulation so that your pet can stay warm even when they are inside the house for longer durations.
So, these are some of the ways you can follow to keep your pet warm during cold months. If you notice signs of hypothermia or frostbite in your pet then do not wait to take them to a veterinarian for further treatment.
What you Should Do if your Dog is Exposed to Cold Temperatures?
If you live in a region where it gets very cold during the winter months, make sure you take precautions to keep your pet warm. You can do this by limiting their exposure to cold weather and keeping them indoors as much as possible. If they will be exposed to extremely cold temperatures for the most part of the day, then investing in dog clothing is a great idea.
You should also invest in a well-insulated dog house where they can stay safe and warm on those cold winter nights. You can even invest in an outdoor dog house that comes with a heater and is insulated to protect your pet from temperature extremes.
So, these are some of the ways that you need to follow to keep your pet warm during the winter months. Do not wait to take them to a veterinarian for further treatment If you notice signs of hypothermia or frostbite in your dog.
Conclusion
So, this was all about how cold is too cold for a pitbull and what you should do if your dog is exposed to extreme temperatures. If your pet seems to develop any of the signs mentioned above, immediately consult with your nearest vet for further treatment.