Do Goldendoodles get cold? Do Goldendoodles like cold weather? Whether you live in a cooler climate or just want to play in the snow with your furry friend, you may be curious about the temperatures your dog can comfortably tolerate.
Dogs can get too cold, and they can get hypothermia, just as humans can. However, their bodies deal with extreme temperatures a little differently than we do, so let’s take a look at just how cold is too cold for your Doodle mix.
Before reading this guide, “Do Goldendoodles Get Cold,” check out: How to Train a Goldendoodle? (2023).
Table of Contents
ToggleGoldendoodles: A Short History
The Goldendoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. Of course, your dog will inherit qualities from each parent. The Golden Retriever is known to tolerate conditions ranging from around 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, while the Poodle was built for colder climates.
The Poodle is a water dog that likely originated in Germany. As you may be aware, Germany is known for its harsh winters and cooler climate. Conversely, the Golden Retriever most likely came from the United Kingdom — its roots stem from Scotland in the late 1800s.
With a milder climate in its place of origin, a Golden will be less likely to tolerate very cold temperatures.
As mentioned, your dog inherited genes from each of his parents. That means a Goldendoodle’s coat will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will have a thick undercoat and straight hair, while others will have inherited the Poodle’s curly locks.
Keep this in mind as you ask “Do Goldendoodles get cold,” as the answer will vary from dog to dog! However, there are some generalities that will apply to each Goldendoodle. Let’s take a look at the climates that Goldendoodles can tolerate.
Do Goldendoodles Like Cold Weather?
Both the Poodle and the Golden Retriever can withstand temperatures as low as around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Now, that doesn’t mean your dog will want to be outdoors in inclement weather.
You’ll need to monitor your pup and watch for signs that he’s too cold. Extreme conditions can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, two very dangerous conditions.
Certain factors can impact your dog’s natural ability to withstand snow and cold temperatures, such as:
- Your dog’s age: Puppies and seniors are less likely to be comfortable in cold temperatures than healthy adult dogs.
- Your dog’s temperament: Dogs are like kids, in that some like to play in the snow and others don’t! Your dog may love jumping in a snow pile, or he may prefer a pile of warm blankets.
- His coat: Every Goldendoodle’s coat will be different. Your dog may have a thick coat that will insulate him from the cold, or he may have thinner hair which will make him more susceptible.
- His size: Smaller dogs are more likely to get too cold in cooler weather than large dogs.
As you can see, your pup’s perfect temperature will depend a lot on age, build, and other factors. If you have questions about appropriate temperatures for your dog, please schedule a chat with your veterinarian.
Do Goldendoodles Get Frostbite?
Yes! Goldendoodles can get frostbite, just as humans can, and they can also get hypothermia.
Frostbite is a condition that occurs when skin and tissues freeze. It’s a serious condition and is sometimes irreversible. Frostnip is the first stage of frostbite, and it can be reversed by slowly warming your Goldendoodle’s paws, tail, and other extremities. Frostbite may lead to permanent damage and should be treated by a qualified professional.
While you wait for your veterinary appointment, take steps to warm your dog. Ensure that his core body temperature rises to or remains at around 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, you may submerge your dog’s affected paw or other area in water that’s around 104 degrees. Do not rub the area, and do not apply direct heat.
Once you’ve arrived at the vet’s office, your doggy doc will assess the damage and will treat it as necessary. Pain medication and antibiotics are options your vet may prescribe for your dog.
Hypothermia in Dogs
Hypothermia is slightly different than frostbite. It affects your dog’s overall body temperature. Your Goldendoodle’s normal body temperature, when well, should be between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your pup’s temps drop below 99 degrees Fahrenheit, this is cause for concern.
Hypothermia is treated by gradually bringing your pup’s temperatures back to normal. Warm blankets, water bottles, and even intravenous drips can help with this.
A do-it-yourself approach is fine, so long as you take care not to warm your dog too quickly, and that you monitor your dog for signs of distress. Should you note that your dog’s temperature has dropped, cover him with warm blankets and place a hot water bottle, wrapped in a towel, in his bed, or crate with him.
If you don’t have a water bottle, you can fill a large tube sock with deer corn or rice, microwave it briefly, and use it as a substitute. Take care not to touch your dog’s skin directly with the warm pack.
While you wait, contact your vet. Take your dog’s temperature regularly, and if symptoms do not subside, bring your Goldendoodle in for emergency treatment. A warm IV may be medically necessary.
Your dog can recover from hypothermia if it’s treated. Left untreated, a dramatic decrease in body temperature can lead to cardiac arrest, coma, brain damage, and death.
How Can I Tell If My Goldendoodle Is Too Cold?
If you and your Goldendoodle are playing outside in cold weather, you’ll want to keep a close eye on his body language. Of course, pups can’t talk to us and tell us they’re cold!
Signs that your dog wants to end playtime and go inside include:
- A tucked tail
- Hairs on his spine standing “on end”
- Lethargy
- A curled position (your dog is instinctively preserving his body heat and energy)
- Whining, growling, or excessive barking
- Shivering
- A change in skin color (pale or blue lips or other areas)
When your dog displays any of these signs, it’s time to call it a day and head inside to a warm space.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re still asking “Do Goldendoodles get cold,” read the following answers to some of the web’s most frequently asked questions on the subject.
The temperature your dog is comfortable in will depend on your dog. His age, health, size, and even his personality. Your dog may be a snow bunny, thriving in playtime outdoors, or he may be more of a couch potato, preferring the warmth of a sunny patch on the floor.
With that having been said, plan to bring your dog inside when temperatures drop below between 45 and 50 degrees Celsius. Your dog will have to go outdoors to use the potty, but he shouldn’t be out for a prolonged period of time in freezing temperatures.
Well, this is a tricky question. Yes, they can stay outside during the day. However, they probably shouldn’t.
Your dog should be left outside for adequate exercise time — bonus points if you’re outdoors with him. But to leave your dog outside all day is risky. Temperatures can drop, storms can pass through, and predators (as well as other dogs) can cause trouble for your pup.
It should go without saying that your Goldendoodle should never be left outdoors alone all night. So many things can go wrong, including:
A drop in temperatures
Visits from predators
Neighbors’ complaints about your dog barking or whining
Inclement weather
Pests and parasites
Dog theft
As you can see, the best place for your pup is indoors with you. He’ll be happier there beside you, anyway.
We’ve talked about whether Goldendoodles like snow and cold weather — but what about the heat?
First, your Goldendoodle’s internal body temperature should not rise above 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
He risks a variety of health conditions if this occurs. To keep him within a normal range, it’s best to bring him in when outdoor temperatures climb above 85 degrees.
Now, we understand: summer happens! You can absolutely walk and play with your dog outdoors in temperatures exceeding 85 degrees. However, like the cold, it’s important to monitor your pup for signs of distress. Don’t leave your dog outside all day in hot weather.
Conclusion for “Do Goldendoodles Get Cold”
Goldendoodles do get cold, and it’s your responsibility as a pet owner to ensure that your pup isn’t at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, or other conditions. During the cooler winter months or in cold climates, limit the time your dog spends outdoors — if you’re cold, he’s cold.
Don’t let your Goldendoodle’s fluffy coat fool you. Dogs can get too cold in extreme temperatures. Should you notice signs of distress in your pup, bring him inside and warm him up, calling the vet if you deem it necessary.
If you find this guide, “Do Goldendoodles Get Cold,” helpful, check out:
- When to Spay a Goldendoodle? (2023)
- Best Clippers for a Goldendoodle! (2023)
- Is Goldendoodle AKC-Registered? (2023)
Learn more by watching “7 Reasons You SHOULD NOT Get a Goldendoodle” down below:
Garrett loves animals and is a huge advocate for all Doodle dog breeds. He owns his own Goldendoodle named Kona. In addition, he volunteers at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, where he fosters dogs and helps animals. Garrett enjoys writing about Doodles and believes that dogs can teach humans more about how to live than humans can teach a dog.
Why Trust We Love Doodles?
At We Love Doodles, we’re a team of writers, veterinarians, and puppy trainers that love dogs. Our team of qualified experts researches and provides reliable information on a wide range of dog topics. Our reviews are based on customer feedback, hands-on testing, and in-depth analysis. We are fully transparent and honest to our community of dog owners and future owners.