Quote:
Originally Posted by IanB
I just googled the climate in Maine, looks like winter lows get down to about 0F/-18C, maybe a bit cooler? That's cold compared to Florida, but that's a really mild winter where I live, lol.
I find that as long as the dogs are active (off leash is best for this), they stay warm, even when it's REALLY cold, we'll go for hikes when it's -13F/-25C, and they do alright. If you're having to keep the dog on leash, they will feel the cold worse, they just can't get their heart rate up the same way. My hiking buddy has a beagle and he does pretty well in the cold as well. Our dogs are 10 and 11 years old now, still very active and in great shape.
As my dog has gotten older she is more sensitive to the cold, her back feet specifically, and I have broken down and got her boots. The boots are a PITA to put on, and don't seem to stay on no matter what. Could just be her fur type (husky/shepherd cross).
The only dogs I see with coats around here are small dogs, or smooth coats like a boxer that don't have much for insulation.
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Thank you for the input, from what I hear it can get into the single digit negatives (F) but the wind frequently blows at a constant 15-20 mph. My dogs coat style is similar to that of a boxer with some exposed skin on his belly
I don't have a problem keeping him off leash ( i actually prefer to) but being that i am completely unfamiliar with the winter setting effect on dogs I don't want to injure him or make him miserable
