what temp is too cold

[Tara]

I was wondering since my puppy seems to have more poodle than labrador, what temp is too cold to have him outside for extended periods?

[Carol and Banjo]

Tara - I was wondering the same thing this week....posted this earlier in week. 

http://www.doodlekisses.com/forum/topics/how-cold-is-too-cold-1

[DeeDee and Sheila]

I just got Sheila a snow suit.  She came in full of snow, shivering.  Her coat is more fleece, not wool, so it's not as dense and warm.  Doodles also do not have the double dermis's (sets of skin) that labradors have that help keep them warm.  I NEVER had a coat on my labs.  This little girl is different.  I'd say if in doubt get a coat. 

[Deb, Connor & Simon]

I think it depends on your pup's age, how cold and for what extended period of time. If it drops below freezing, I break out the fleeces for the doodles. My collie has a THICK double and he never gets cold. On the other hand, especially cold rain, sleet or snow will cause Connor to shiver (he has a wavy fleece/hair combo). Simon has a spiral fleece coat that is very thick, but he still can get the shivers. I wouldn't let a young pup stay out very long at all. As my vet explained to me many years ago, puppies have no "common sense" about heat or cold..or how long to play. It's better to err on the side of caution.

RCPets makes a really nice washable fleece @ a reasonable price. :-)

[Carol]

Tara good question. I appreciate you asking it. Also, what about booties? My husband thinks I'm going overboard and says dogs have been walking outside without booties since the beginning of time ;-) however, I'm wondering if others know something I (or my husband) doesn't 

[Lynda Kamrath]

Well, dogs may have been walking outside without booties since the beginning of time, but they have not been doodles who live in our homes with us and walk on carpet or nice lawns most of the time.  Actually, the sled dogs in Alaska wear booties and they run on ice.  I think booties are a nice alternative to walking on the cold concrete.  My dogs have worn vests when we have gone to the snow.  Just remember, they are used to the inside of your home, not the out of doors.  Dress them as you would dress for the weather.

[Carol]

Thanks Lynda, I appreciate your words!