Warning issued over when it’s too cold to walk your dog

It’s pretty cold right now. Like, really f**king cold.

At this point of January, not many of us want to leave our homes to go walk about outside - I’d rather be in my dressing gown under a blanket, thanks.

But for those of us with dogs, walks are pretty much a non-negotiable.

Taking our beloved four-legged friends out is essential for keeping them healthy and happy.

Except when the temperature outside gets to a certain level of cold, it’s actually better for some breeds to stay at home where it’s nice and cosy.

And obviously, this really is only for some breeds - anyone who’s fallen down a TikTok hole of Newfoundlands and Bernese Mountain Dog videos will know those dogs are more than happy in the cold.

But breeds like those are protected by a thick double coat, keeping them toasty and dry.

During these winter months, smaller and short-haired dogs are more at risk from the cold.

Lorna Winter, who co-founded puppy training app Zigzag, told Metro: "If you need a hat and scarf to be standing outside, it’s likely your pup will be cold too.

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"If they’re moving around then the exercise might be keeping them warm, but pavements are cold and puppies are close to it so feel the cold."

She added: "Breeds that are better at tolerating the cold (often because they have thicker fur, a double coat or a heavier frame) include Newfoundlands, Siberian Huskies, Tibetan Mastiffs and Norwegian Elkhounds.

"Breeds that have shorter hair and are smaller are less able to cope with cold weather. This includes Chihuahuas, Whippets and French Bulldogs."

The dog trainer also suggested that owners of breeds which are vulnerable to the cold can also get them clothes to help keep them warm.

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Breeds with thin fur and small breeds could benefit from a coat or onesie during the cold months.

Another good option is to get some shoes, which will protect your pooch from the cold ground, as well as any grit or antifreeze chemicals.

And if temperatures do drop below -5C, it's probably best to give walkies a miss until things get a bit warmer.

You can tell your dog is getting too cold if they are shaking or shivering. They might also seek out a heat source, which could be you.

But there are other ways you can keep your dog happy if they have to miss out on going for a walk.

This could be giving them enrichment activities at home, which keep them stimulated.