Poodles are a well-liked dog breed that many people keep as pets all over the world. And because their coats look so thick, many of these dog owners can’t help but wonder whether Poodles get cold easily.
Poodles do feel cold easily. Their thick coats are deceptive. It doesn’t take long for the cold to make your Poodle’s coat wet and then have the cold seep into the skin. Lastly, Poodles are single-coated, which makes their skin more susceptible to the cold.
Keep reading below as we describe more about a Poodle’s cold tolerance and how to take care of them in the winter.
Before reading this guide, “Do Poodles Get Cold,” check out: Poodle Tails: To Dock or Leave Naturally? (2023) and Pros and Cons of a Poodle with Long Hair! (2023).
Is the Poodle’s Fur Double Coated?
Contrary to popular belief, Poodles do not have thick double coats. However, Poodles are distinguished by a single coat of dense, curly hair that may reach a considerable length. Because this coat is so comparable to human hair, your Poodle may benefit from occasional trimmings.
Daily brushing will keep your Poodle’s coat from matting. A longer coat requires more regular brushing. Brushing a long coat frequently will keep it free from tangles and burrs.
Allowing the coat to grow severely matted may make the process much more time-consuming and may necessitate the help of an expert groomer. Going to the groomer for a cut and a bath around once every two months is recommended if you want to keep their coat at a longer length.
Poodles, unlike other breeds of dogs, are considered hypoallergenic because they shed very little. However, this does not mean they are entirely hypoallergenic or never shed.
The constant growth of their hair means that they do not shed nearly as much as other breeds. Due to this trait, some allergy sufferers can own a Poodle while being unable to do so with other breeds.
Breed Standards
According to the American Kennel Club, which is responsible for organizing dog exhibitions and contests in the United States, the Poodle’s coat must be curly. The regulation specifies that the coat “must be of naturally harsh texture” and be “dense throughout the body.”
Corded coats that hang tightly are permitted by the breed standard, despite the fact that their length may vary. The cords on the head and trunk are longer than those on the arms and legs. There is no mention of a coat with waves in the standard.
Those who have experience with dog breeds that often have double coats may find this surprising. A double-coated breed is characterized by having an outer coat that is often long, dense, and either straight or wavy, while their inner coat is typically soft and relatively short.
The purpose of this sort of coat is to shield the dog from the adverse effects of high or low temperatures. While Poodles’ hair may look like it has two layers due to its tight curls, it only has one.
It is also important to point out that certain dog breeds have a coat that is referred to as having a fleece texture. Coats of this type are long and sleek, with neither an undercoat nor guard hairs (which are typically much longer and rougher).
Do Poodles Get Cold?
You may be afraid that your Poodle might catch a cold if you leave him outside in temperatures below freezing due to his unusual coat. These concerns aren’t altogether unjustified.
Poodles (and the many descendant breeds, including Cockapoos, Cavapoos, and even Groodles) have deceiving coats that don’t provide much insulation. Getting wet is a surefire way to make them shiver until they freeze.
Any dog that looks like a Poodle needs a coat to keep it dry, and they’ll be grateful for any extra layer of clothing — a sweater, hoodie, body warmer, or coat — that keeps them toasty.
The temperature should be pleasant and not icy when you take your Poodle for a stroll. You cannot allow frostbite to form on their paws if they get too cold. Protect your dog’s tender paws by giving them a pair of boots before venturing out onto icy sidewalks.
Most Vulnerable Areas for Poodles in Winter
Like many other dog breeds, Poodles can experience health problems when exposed to freezing temperatures.
Paw Pads
Extreme cold, such as ice and snow, can cause the paws to freeze.
Cracking is common in frozen pads; add hazardous ice melt chemicals and grit on the sidewalks, and your Poodle is in for a tough journey. Protecting the paws is important because they are delicate.
Nose
The wet nose of a dog is a sign of good health, but it can be a problem in the colder months. The problem with having a wet nose is that the dry air from the wind may cause it to crack and bleed.
Your Poodle’s habit of licking its nose will exacerbate the problem until it becomes so uncomfortable that you have to take her to the clinic.
Skin
Dry skin, chapped lips, brittle hair, and a rough winter coat are wintertime staples. What applies to you also applies to your Poodle. The reason for this is that during the winter months, the humidity level is significantly lower than during the summer.
Excessive itching, rashes, and raw skin are all symptoms of your poodle’s skin and coat drying out excessively during the colder months.
Can My Poodle Stay Outside in Winters?
Winters can be particularly harsh in some parts of the world. As the temperature continues to drop to potentially life-threatening levels, we protect ourselves by wrapping ourselves in the warmest sweaters and blankets we have.
Even though the hair on a Poodle appears to be denser than that of any other breed of dog, it is quite fine. When compared to other dog breeds, which typically have a double coat, this one has a single coat.
Dogs’ undercoats provide insulation from the elements, particularly temperature swings. Poodles can’t survive the winter since they do not have an undercoat.
When exposed to cold temperatures, we humans are susceptible to entering a state known as hypothermia and developing frostbite. Poodles are just as susceptible to developing these conditions as humans.
That’s why it’s never a good idea to leave a Poodle outside in the cold. Because Poodles only have one coat, it is not safe for them to remain outside in the winter because it is difficult for them to regulate their body temperature.
It is completely acceptable for you to walk your Poodle in the snow throughout the winter, as long as you do so responsibly. Even when it’s freezing outside, Poodles still need to get their daily exercise. As a result of the exercise that your Poodle will be getting, their core temperature should remain within the normal range.
You should not, however, remain outside for an excessive amount of time, even if you are engaging in physical activity with your dog while the temperature is low.
The amount of time that you can spend outside is a good indicator of how long your Poodle should be exposed to the weather. Your Poodle will experience the same physiological responses to the cold that you will.
Therefore, if you take your dog outside to get some fresh air and exercise with them, they should be okay. When the weather gets so chilly that you can’t stand it, keep in mind that your Poodle is feeling the same way you are.
When the cold starts to get the better of you and you start to shiver, it’s time to go inside with your Poodle. In most cases, you won’t need to worry about their safety if you spend less than one hour outside.
How to Prevent Your Poodle from Getting Cold This Winter
In addition to the measures already discussed, here are some more precautions you may take to ensure your Poodle’s safety throughout the cold season.
Indoor Fetch
Poodles, like all dogs, need regular exercise.
There may be some days when you can’t take your Poodle outside because of the weather or other local factors. Your Poodle will still require regular playtime, though. To avoid the cold, playing catch indoors is the best alternative. Your Poodle will be occupied while getting some much-needed physical activity and mental release.
Install Humidifiers
The air tends to be devoid of moisture throughout the winter months. It’s possible that you already have humidifiers installed. However, you might not be aware that humidifiers are also beneficial for your Poodle. Some of the issues your Poodle may face during the colder months include:
- Dry hacking cough
- Dry Eyes
- Snoring
You can avoid your Poodle’s wintertime troubles by keeping a humidifier in the room where it sleeps.
Be Mindful of Cold Symptoms
Poodles rarely get the chills. If your Poodle is shivering, it’s time to bring him or her inside. Shivering indicates that they are experiencing extreme cold. Poodles are susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite; therefore, it is important to keep an eye out for the symptoms of these conditions.
These are some of the indicators:
- Shivering
- Poodle searching around for a source of heat
- Whining
- Slow moves
- Anxiousness
- Raised paw or leg while walking
You should always keep an eye on your Poodle when you are outside with them to ensure that none of these indicators are present. Some Poodles may exhibit these symptoms more clearly than others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Temperatures under 20F are dangerous for a Poodle. Avoid keeping your dog outside for a prolonged period when it’s too cold outside.
Poodles can benefit from jackets in winter since they only have a single coat.
Anywhere from 60F to 72F should be a comfortable temperature for a Poodle.
Conclusion for “Do Poodles Get Cold”
In conclusion, Poodles do get cold. It is your responsibility, as their owner, to make sure they are safe and clear of frostbite. Follow the recommendations discussed in this article above to have a warm, snuggly winter with your Poodle.
If you find this guide, “Do Poodles Get Cold,” helpful, check out:
- Are Poodles Good Guard Dogs? (2023)
- 8 Best Poodle Mixes! (2023)
- 6 Fun Games to Play With Your Poodle! (2023)
Learn more by watching “7 Reasons You Should NOT Get a Standard Poodle” 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.
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