Ever wondered if your dog can handle that winter camping trip you’ve been planning? While your furry friend may love romping through the snow during a quick walk, overnight winter camping with dogs requires serious preparation to keep them safe. 

According to the American Kennel Club, hypothermia in dogs begins when their body temperature drops below 99°F, and left untreated, it can lead to cardiac failure, brain damage, or even death.

To build this guide, we dug through outdoor forums like r/CampingandHiking, analyzed gear reviews from experienced winter campers, and studied veterinary resources on cold-weather pet safety. We looked at what real dog owners said worked (and what didn’t) when they took their pets into freezing temperatures. 

The result is a practical guide that covers everything you need to know about keeping your dog warm and safe during winter camping adventures. And if you’re just getting started with outdoor trips, check out our guide on camping with dogs year-round.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Your Dog?

Not all dogs are built for winter camping with dog companions. Breeds like Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes can handle freezing temperatures much better than Chihuahuas or Greyhounds. Size matters too; smaller dogs lose body heat faster than larger ones because they have less body mass to generate warmth.

Age plays a huge role in cold tolerance. Puppies and senior dogs struggle to regulate their body temperature, making them more vulnerable to hypothermia. Dogs with health conditions like heart disease, kidney problems, or thyroid issues also face higher risks in cold weather.

Coat type is another key factor. Dogs with thick, double coats have natural insulation, while short-haired breeds need extra protection. Even within the same breed, individual dogs may have different tolerance levels. Before committing to winter camping with dogs, take your pup on a cold-weather day hike to see how they handle it.

Essential Gear for Winter Camping With Dogs

Dog Jackets and Coats

A quality dog jacket is non-negotiable for winter camping. Look for waterproof options with fleece lining for maximum warmth. Your dog may need multiple layers, a lighter fleece vest for moderate cold, and a heavier insulated coat when temperatures drop below freezing.

Choose jackets that cover your dog’s chest and belly, not just the back. These areas lose heat quickly and need protection. Make sure the fit is snug but comfortable; your dog should be able to move freely without the jacket riding up or restricting movement.

Try the jacket on your dog at home before your trip. Some dogs need time to adjust to wearing clothing, so give them a few practice runs around the house or yard.

Dog Sleeping Bags and Pads

Just like you need insulation from the cold ground, so does your dog. A dog sleeping bag provides a cozy, insulated space where your pup can curl up and stay warm. Brands like Ruffwear make sleeping bags specifically designed for dogs, with water-resistant outer shells and insulation that traps body heat.

If a sleeping bag feels like overkill, at minimum, bring a thick sleeping pad or mat for your dog. The pad creates a barrier between your dog and the frozen ground, preventing heat loss through conduction. Some campers use old camping pads or foam mats, which work just as well as dog-specific products.

For extra warmth, place blankets on top of the sleeping pad. Let your dog arrange them into a nest; they naturally know how to create a cozy spot by circling and pawing at blankets. This instinct helps them trap warm air around their body.

Dog Booties for Paw Protection

Your dog’s paws are incredibly vulnerable to cold temperatures, ice, and snow. Dog booties protect against frostbite, prevent ice balls from forming between the toes, and shield paw pads from painful cracking in freezing conditions.

Most dogs need time to get used to wearing booties. Start practicing at home weeks before your trip. Choose booties with good traction to prevent slipping on ice and secure straps that won’t fall off during activity.

If your dog absolutely refuses booties, use paw wax or balm instead. These products create a protective barrier on the paw pads, keeping them moisturized and reducing ice buildup. Check your dog’s paws frequently during winter camping to remove any ice balls that form between the toes.

Towels and Drying Supplies

Wetness is your dog’s biggest enemy in cold weather. A wet coat loses its insulating properties, causing your dog’s body temperature to drop rapidly. Always pack absorbent towels, at least two or three, so you can dry your dog thoroughly if they get wet from snow, water, or even excessive panting.

Microfiber towels work great because they’re lightweight, pack small, and dry quickly. Keep one towel near the tent entrance for quick drying sessions before bed. The goal is to make sure your dog is completely dry before they settle in for the night.

How To Set Up a Warm Sleeping Space For Your Dog

Inside the Tent

Your dog should sleep inside the tent with you during winter camping. The tent naturally heats up from body heat, creating a warmer microclimate than outside. Never leave your dog outside overnight in winter conditions, even breeds adapted for cold weather need shelter from wind and extreme temperatures.

Set up your dog’s sleeping area away from the tent walls, where condensation can form and make things damp. Place their pad or bed between you and other campers if possible. Dogs can share body heat with humans, keeping everyone warmer throughout the night.

Consider bringing your dog’s regular bed or blanket from home. Familiar smells help dogs feel comfortable in new environments, which means they’ll settle down faster and sleep better.

Using Sleeping Bags Together

One of the most effective ways to keep your dog warm is to share body heat. If your dog is small enough, they can sleep inside your sleeping bag with you. For larger dogs, unzip your sleeping bag and use it like a blanket over both of you while your dog lies on their own pad beside you.

Some winter campers create a “puppy pile” situation where multiple dogs sleep close together. This works especially well because dogs naturally huddle for warmth, and the combined body heat keeps everyone cozy through the night.

Hot Water Bottles for Extra Warmth

A hot water bottle provides safe, long-lasting warmth for your dog. Fill a Nalgene bottle or rubber hot water bottle with hot water before bed and place it in your dog’s sleeping area. Wrap it in a towel to prevent direct contact with skin, which could cause burns.

The bottle radiates gentle heat for several hours, taking the chill off your dog’s sleeping space. This simple trick works wonders, especially for small dogs or those not acclimated to cold-weather camping.

How To Keep Your Dog Warm During the Day?

Stay Active

Movement generates body heat, so keep your dog active during the day. Go for hikes, play fetch, or let them explore the campground. Physical activity helps your dog maintain their core temperature and prevents them from getting too cold.

However, watch for signs of exhaustion. Trekking through deep snow burns more calories and requires more effort than normal walking. Take regular breaks and don’t push your dog beyond their limits.

Campfire Time

Hanging out by the campfire is one of the best ways to warm up during winter camping with dog friends. Let your dog relax near the fire (but not too close), where they can soak up the radiant heat.

Always supervise your dog around the campfire. Some dogs get excited by sticks and may try to grab burning wood from the fire pit. Keep a safe distance and watch for stray embers that could land on their coat.

Monitor for Signs of Cold Stress

Pay close attention to your dog’s behavior throughout the day. Early warning signs that your dog is getting too cold include shivering, lifting their paws off the ground, curling up in a tight ball, or seeking shelter.

If your dog starts acting lethargic, seems confused, or stops shivering suddenly, these are red flags for hypothermia. Get them warm immediately by bringing them into the tent, wrapping them in blankets, and using external heat sources like hot water bottles. If symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes or worsen, seek veterinary care right away.

Suggested Reads- 8 Best Pet-Friendly RV Parks for Long Road Trips

How Nutrition and Hydration Help Your Dog Stay Warm in Cold Weather

Feed Extra Calories

Dogs burn significantly more calories in cold weather just to maintain their body temperature. On top of that, they’re working harder, moving through snow and dealing with harsh conditions. Increase your dog’s food portions by 20-30% during winter camping trips to give them the energy they need.

Pack high-protein, nutrient-dense treats throughout the day, using the best dog foods your dog already eats and tolerates well. Foods rich in fat and protein help dogs generate more body heat. Many winter campers feed their dogs a calorie-dense meal right before bed so their body has fuel to burn overnight.

Prevent Dehydration

Dehydration is just as dangerous in winter as in summer. Dogs can become dehydrated from the physical exertion of winter hiking and from their body working overtime to stay warm.

Offer water frequently during the day, even if your dog doesn’t seem thirsty. Cold air is dry, and dogs lose moisture through panting. Keep water from freezing by storing it in insulated bottles or warming it slightly before offering it to your dog. Some dogs are reluctant to drink ice-cold water, so slightly warm water may encourage them to stay hydrated.

What to Avoid During Winter Camping With Your Dog

Don’t Let Them Get Wet

Avoid letting your dog play in water or snow for extended periods when winter camping. One of the most common mistakes to avoid when camping with your dog is assuming brief wet exposure is harmless. While a short romp is usually fine, prolonged contact with snow or water can cause rapid heat loss, so if your dog gets wet, dry them immediately and thoroughly.

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Hypothermia symptoms in dogs progress from mild to severe quickly. Mild symptoms include shivering and decreased energy. Moderate hypothermia causes weakness, stumbling, and pale gums. Severe hypothermia leads to unconsciousness, slow breathing, and a life-threatening drop in heart rate.

Trust your instincts. If you’re cold and uncomfortable, your dog probably is too. Don’t push through bad weather just to stick to your camping plans. Your dog’s safety should always come first, and there’s no shame in cutting a trip short if conditions become unsafe.

Don’t Skip Preparation

Winter camping with dogs requires more gear and planning than summer trips. Don’t assume your dog will be fine because they have a fur coat. Even cold-weather breeds need protection from extreme temperatures, wind, and wet conditions.

Practice using all your gear at home first. Set up the tent in your backyard, have your dog try on their jacket and booties, and see how they react to sleeping in a sleeping bag. This preparation prevents surprises during your actual camping trip.

How to Identify and Treat Hypothermia in Dogs

Knowing how to spot hypothermia can save your dog’s life. Mild hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops to 95-99°F. You’ll notice intense shivering, lethargy, and your dog curling up tightly to conserve heat.

Moderate hypothermia (82-90°F) is more serious. Your dog may stop shivering, appear confused or disoriented, have muscle stiffness, and show signs of difficulty walking. Their gums may look pale or blue.

Severe hypothermia (below 82°F) is a medical emergency. The dog will be unresponsive, have a slow heart rate, barely breathe, and may be unconscious. This requires immediate veterinary intervention.

If you suspect hypothermia, move your dog to a warm, dry area immediately. Wrap them in dry blankets or sleeping bags. Place wrapped hot water bottles around their body (not directly on skin). If they’re conscious and able to swallow, offer warm (not hot) water to drink.

Warm them gradually. Rapid rewarming can cause shock. Monitor their condition closely, and if symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes or if they worsen at any point, seek emergency veterinary care as soon as possible.

When to Skip Winter Camping With Your Dog

Some dogs simply shouldn’t go winter camping. Very young puppies and elderly dogs have difficulty regulating body temperature and are at high risk for hypothermia. Dogs with health issues like heart disease, arthritis, or respiratory problems may struggle in extreme cold.

Small breeds and short-haired dogs face higher risks because they lose body heat quickly. While you can outfit them with jackets and booties, some dogs just aren’t comfortable in severe cold, no matter how much gear you provide.

Temperature guidelines vary, but most experts recommend extra caution when temperatures drop below 45°F. When it’s below 20°F, hypothermia and frostbite can affect all dogs regardless of breed. At these temperatures, limit outdoor time to short bathroom breaks unless your dog is specifically bred for arctic conditions and properly acclimated.

Be realistic about your individual dog’s abilities. If your dog seems miserable on a cold day hike, they’re not going to enjoy winter camping. There’s nothing wrong with waiting for warmer weather or choosing less extreme camping conditions.

Making Winter Camping Safe and Enjoyable

Winter camping with dogs can be an incredible bonding experience when done right. The key is preparation, proper gear, constant monitoring, and knowing when to call it quits. Your dog depends on you to keep them safe, so take the responsibility seriously.

Start small with shorter trips in milder winter conditions before tackling extreme cold. Build up your dog’s tolerance gradually and learn what works best for your specific pet. Every dog has its own unique personality, and a method that is effective for one might not be suitable for another. With the right approach, winter camping opens up a whole new world of outdoor adventures you can share with your four-legged best friend. Just remember that their comfort and safety should always be your top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature is too cold for dogs to camp?

Most dogs start feeling uncomfortable below 45°F, and temperatures below 20°F pose serious risks for hypothermia and frostbite in all breeds. However, cold tolerance varies greatly by breed, size, coat type, and age. Small dogs, puppies, seniors, and short-haired breeds need extra caution even at moderate temperatures. Always monitor your individual dog’s behavior and comfort level rather than relying solely on temperature readings.

Do dogs need sleeping bags for winter camping?

While not absolutely required, a dog sleeping bag significantly improves your pet’s comfort and safety during winter camping with dogs. At minimum, dogs need an insulated sleeping pad to prevent heat loss from the cold ground, plus blankets they can nest into. Dog-specific sleeping bags provide superior insulation and protection from drafts. For extremely cold conditions, a sleeping bag designed for dogs is definitely worth the investment.

How do I know if my dog has hypothermia while camping?

Early signs of hypothermia include shivering, lethargy, curling into a tight ball, and lifting paws off cold surfaces. As hypothermia progresses, dogs may stop shivering, seem confused or disoriented, have difficulty walking, and show pale gums. Severe hypothermia causes unconsciousness, very slow breathing, and a weak pulse. If you notice any of these symptoms, warm your dog immediately with blankets and hot water bottles, and seek veterinary care if symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes.

Can my dog sleep outside the tent in winter?

No, dogs should always sleep inside the tent during winter camping. Even breeds adapted for cold weather need protection from wind, precipitation, and extreme overnight temperatures. The tent creates a warmer microclimate from body heat and shields your dog from dangerous wind chill. Never leave your dog outside overnight in winter conditions, as this significantly increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.

What should I feed my dog during winter camping?

Increase your dog’s regular food portions by 20-30% during winter camping trips, as they burn significantly more calories staying warm and moving through snow. Choose high-protein, nutrient-dense foods and treats rich in fat, which help dogs generate body heat. Feed a calorie-dense meal right before bedtime so their body has fuel to burn overnight. Don’t forget to offer water frequently, as dogs can become dehydrated even in cold weather from physical exertion and the dry winter air.