Hypothermia: What it is and how to spot it

Hypothermia happens when a body can’t keep up with heat loss. This is especially concerning during the winter months, when dogs can be exposed to temperatures well below what they can tolerate.

Heat loss in dogs is usually a result of cold moisture/being cold and wet, exposure to cold or under-insulated surfaces, blustery winds or over-grooming/shaving. There are other ways a dog can develop hypothermia, but these are the most common.

There is no set amount of time or exact temperature that a dog will start to suffer from hypothermia. Thick-coated dogs such as Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes can withstand much colder temperatures than their Terrier and Chihuahua relatives. Dogs with a high muscle density and low body fat are also likely to lose body heat quickly.

Hypothermia is a veterinary emergency.

If you see a dog showing signs of hypothermia: Contact the owner or Animal Services for immediate help.