#Middlebury
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My dog loves to be outside so much that I built a wire run across my backyard so he can stay outside longer while I do chores inside and keep an eye on him. It’s worked really well, and he stays much calmer in his kennel cage overnight. However, the weather is getting much colder, and I’m worried about leaving him outside for too long. Will he suffer in the cold? Should I put a shelter out for him? – Caroline S., via email
DEAR CAROLINE: Winter can be challenging for pet owners, who want their dogs to get plenty of exercise but worry about the effects of the cold. Here are some ways to determine how long your dog should be outside:
- Does he have a thick coat? Dogs with thicker or even double coats, like Newfies, tolerate cold much longer than dogs with thin coats, like Greyhounds.
- What size is your dog? Smaller dogs, regardless of coat thickness, tend to get chilled faster than large dogs.
- How old is he? Very young or old dogs are not able to regulate their body temperature as well as healthy adult dogs.
Always monitor the temperature and weather. Below 45° F, some dogs are uncomfortable. Below freezing, check on your dog much more frequently. If it’s windy or raining, it will feel much colder, so take that into account.
Monitor your dog closely and bring him in if he is unhappy or shivering. You can install a sturdy shelter with top and side protection, but treat it only as a temporary shelter that doesn’t substitute for bringing your dog into the house to warm up.
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(c) 2018 King Features Synd., Inc.
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