First responders often remind us in the spring and fall that despite warm air temperatures, the water is still cold. The temperature of most lakes and rivers in northern climates doesn’t rise until closer to July, in fact, and drops quickly by late September.
In the Pacific Northwest, for example, spring water temperatures average in the 40s to low 50s. That’s a difference of 40 degrees if it’s close to 80 degrees outside! This gap in temperatures means that swimming outdoors can feel like jumping into a river of ice.
Temperatures in other regions vary greatly, depending on the area, and the season. The water in south Lake Huron in Michigan averages 65ºF in July, while some coastal waters in the Gulf of Mexico can be as high as 75ºF in December.
So, if your pup loves the water, how do you know when or if it’s safe to go for a dip? And just how cold is too cold for your dog to swim?
We spoke with two veterinarians, Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, of Rover’s expert Pet People Panel, and Dr. Paige Adams of Etowah Veterinary Hospital in Marietta, Georgia, who explore all the related factors below.
iStock/Chalabala
Water Temperature
First things first: What water temperatures are safe (or unsafe) when it comes to dogs swimming in cold weather or water?
The answer needs to consider a few factors, says Greenstein.
“There are conflicting reports about what constitutes too cold a water temperature and further research is needed, likely because it depends on a number of variables,” Greenstein says. These variables include aspects such as “external temperatures, length of time outdoors and ambient conditions like wind chill, as well as the individual characteristics of your particular dog.”
Breed Considerations
Adams says in general, most dogs will be guided by their own instincts about swimming.
“Dogs will usually be aware of their own bodies, to a degree. So, I tend to trust their judgment,” she explains.
Even still, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, your individual dog’s constitution, and trust your instincts when deciding if swimming is a good idea.
For example, some breeds have a higher cold tolerance than others, such as long-haired dogs who are typically better equipped for frosty weather than short-haired breeds. Other heartier breeds such as Retrievers, Huskies, and Newfoundlands have special double coats that act as insulation, help them repel water, and can even help regulate their body temperature.
“The breed of dog makes a huge difference in their tolerance of the weather, both on land and in the water,” says Adams. Sporting, herding, and working breeds, for example “have a higher tolerance for colder conditions and would happily jump into a body of water even in the middle of winter,” she says.
Age and Medical Considerations
Even dogs bred for colder climes have their limits in cold water. For instance, if your senior Lab has a medical condition, check with your veterinarian before taking them swimming outside.
Small breeds, short-haired dogs, puppies and geriatric dogs, and those with heart or other medical conditions are all more sensitive to colder temperatures. If your dog falls into any of these categories, think twice before spending long periods of time at the river or local swimming hole. An indoor dog swimming pool may be a better option or a dog park with a creek for splashing.
In general, if the water feels too cold for you to stand or wade in, it’s likely too cold for your dog. One rule of thumb mentioned on the AKC is to make sure “the water temperature plus the air temperature equals at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit” before letting a dog in.
Air Temperature
Air temperatures from 45 degrees Fahrenheit or below are generally accepted as too cold for extended exposure for most dogs or cats (i.e. average house pets) not fully acclimatized to cold weather. At a minimum, this temperature should be the cutoff point for aquatic expeditions.
That said, as Greenstein notes above, the wind chill can impact how cold it feels outside—the higher the wind speed, the colder the air will feel to you and your dog. For example, if it’s 50°F outside and the wind is blowing at 15 mph, then it may actually feel closer to 44°F.
Additionally, regionality will play a role in how long your dog can safely take a dip throughout the year.
In Georgia, where Adams resides, mild winter weather is typical, especially when compared to a state like Alaska or Minnesota. So, it goes without saying that dogs swimming in winter in the deep south will not be as big of an issue as those living with pets in significantly colder climes.
Practicing common sense, basic safety precautions, and being aware of your surroundings is key to keeping your dog safe and dry if it is too cold to swim.
In general, says Adams, “usually, if the air temperature is below freezing, that would make the water temperature too cold as well.”
iStock/knape
Time in the Water
Length of time swimming is also a major factor. A quick dip or splash in a cold body of water isn’t likely to cause a problem for an otherwise healthy dog, especially if you dry them off afterward.
Prolonged swimming in cold temps, however, can lead to hypothermia.
A longer swimming time means a dog’s coat soaks up more water. This could lead to a higher chance for their internal body temperature to drop, says Adams. So, if you’re out on a hike and it’s going to be a while before you can grab a towel and head inside, you may want to think twice about letting your dog splash in the river.
Other factors to consider include wind chill, dampness of the air, and cloud cover. Any of these factors can tip a wet dog into the too-cold territory.
Hypothermia
Dogs who spend a long time swimming in cold water could be at risk of hypothermia, or too low body temperature.
If you’re concerned that your pup is getting cold, it’s possible to check their temperature with a thermometer. If it’s below 95 degrees, they could be at risk for hypothermia. Feeling your dog’s ears is another way to check their temperature, says Greenstein. “If they feel cold, especially around the edges, that’s a sign to get inside.”
Other signs of hypothermia in dogs include:
- Shivering
- Lethargy
- Stiff muscles
- Pale or gray gums
- Stumbling or lack of coordination
- Fixed and dilated pupils
- Low heart and breathing rates
- Collapsing
Treatment for hypothermia is urgent, as it can quickly become a life-threatening emergency. “Immediately move them indoors and begin warming them slowly by rubbing their paws while also calling your vet about next steps,” says Greenstein.
iStock/Janice Chen
Cold Water Safety Tips
If you and your pup are going to spend time around the water during spring, fall, or winter, the following tips will help them stay safe, warm, and dry.
- Use a non-retractable leash: Non-retractable leashes give you better control over your dog on walks. This could come in handy if you want to steer your dog away from water.
- Keep a towel on hand: If your dog doesn’t heed your warnings and takes a dip anyway, having a towel in the car can allow you get cold water off their fur faster. Snuggling with a dry towel or blanket could also help your dog warm up on the ride home.
- Avoid frozen water and iced over lakes and streams: Perhaps this goes without saying, but you should avoid taking your dog to play on frozen lakes or ponds. Drowning, hypothermia, and injuries from slips and falls are possible not just for your dog, but for you, too.
- Steer clear of all strong currents and riptides.
- Bring a doggie life jacket if you’ll be recreating by the water or on a boat.
The Takeaway
Swimming can be a great way for your dog to get exercise and enjoy the great outdoors. But if it’s too cold out for you to comfortably take a dip, the safest option is to keep your dog out, too.
We hope these tips will help you and your dog enjoy the outdoors safely in the colder months!
