Protect Your New Golden Retriever Puppy From Temperature Extremes

With their dense double coats, mature golden retrievers enjoy a wide range of outdoor temperatures and are well suited to cold weather activities. However, puppies are especially sensitive to temperature extremes. While fresh air and exercise are important for your puppy, be aware of the dangers that cold and heat can pose.

Cold Tolerance: Compared to adults, puppies have limited cold tolerance. Freezing temperatures, strong wind, and wet conditions can lead to shivering and chills. Avoid long periods in the cold and wet. Watch your puppy for signs of discomfort-shivering, shaking, tucked tail, sluggish movement. When in the snow, check your puppy’s paws regularly for ice balls. If your puppy is cold, bring him indoors and dry immediately.

Heat Sensitivity: Hot summer temperatures can be very stressful for your puppy. With their thick coats and active nature, puppies can easily overheat. Watch for excessive panting, sudden lethargy, glazed eyes, and vomiting. These all indicate that your puppy’s body temperature has risen to a dangerous level. Keep your puppy in the shade on hot days, provide plenty of water, and restrict intensive exercise. Remember that hot surfaces, particularly asphalt, can burn your puppy’s paws. Limit time spent in hot cars or close confined spaces.

With these commonsense measures, your puppy can safely experience the outdoors during different seasons.