I’m a pet expert, here are the signs that your dog is too cold at home – if they display odd behavioir it’s time to act
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THERE’S still two more months of winter to get through, and many of us will be continuing to reach for the thermostat with some areas of the UK expected to drop to -5C this week. But it isn’t just us who will be feeling the chill but our four-legged friends too.
![[Senior pug dog under a blanket on a bed.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/senior-pug-dog-wrapped-blanket-940724187.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Stephen Hankinson, heating expert at Electric Radiators Direct collaborated with Sue Ketland, Behaviour and Training Specialist from Wood Green, The Animals Charity to provide advice on how to keep your dog or cat a comfortable temperature indoors this winter.
The good news is that most four-legged companions are perfectly happy with the usual indoor temperatures we enjoy, with 18–20°C generally being just right. That said, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Cats and dogs, for example, have an average body temperature of 38–39°C, so it’s important to help them maintain this to stay within their comfort zone.
Since every pet is unique, there are three key things to think about when keeping them cosy this winter…. Pets are ultimately part of the family, and before long, you’ll start noticing all their little quirks. For example, if they’re curling up in a tight ball or camping out by the radiator, they’re probably feeling chilly.
On the flip side, if they’re sprawled out, panting, or acting restless, they’re likely too warm. Learning to spot these signals early on means you can tweak your home’s temperature to keep your furry friend perfectly cosy. Different dog breeds have coats of varying thickness, which play a key role in determining their ideal temperature.
