The Great Pyrenees is a breed that loves the outdoors.
If you live in a cold climate, this makes them the perfect dog for you.
But how cold can they handle it?
And what are some symptoms of hypothermia in this breed?
Let’s find out!
What temperature is too cold for the Great Pyrenees
The temperature range you should be looking out for with your Great Pyrenees is between 20 and 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Your dog will begin to feel uncomfortable if the temperature falls below 15 degrees Fahrenheit or rises above 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
This can result in shivering, panting, lethargy, or other signs of discomfort such as pawing at their face or ears.
What are the symptoms of hypothermia in the Great Pyrenees?
When your dog is suffering from hypothermia, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Shivering
- Pale gums
- Fumbling paws
- Lethargy and weakness
Shivering
Shivering is a sign that your dog’s body temperature is dropping. It occurs when muscle activity generates heat.
Pale gums
A pale or bluish gum color means that your dog’s blood circulation has slowed, which can lead to organ damage and death if it goes on for too long.
Dogs with this symptom should be treated immediately by taking them indoors and warming them up.
Fumbling paws
Limping due to cold feet can cause a dog to walk with a fumbling gait, almost as if they were drunk or had no control over their limbs.
Lethargy and weakness
Lethargy and weakness. If your Great Pyrenees seems tired or weak, check for signs of hypothermia and get him warm immediately!
Do the Great Pyrenees need coats in winter?
The Great Pyrenees is a large, white, protective dog that originated in the French Pyrenees Mountains. It’s been used for centuries as a livestock guardian and companion dog.
The undercoat is a dense layer of fine soft hair that lies next to the skin. It provides an insulating layer of air between the dog’s skin and the outer coat. It also acts as a shock absorber to protect against bumps and knocks.
The Great Pyrenees has a double coat, with an outer coat of long, straight hair and an undercoat that is short, soft, and dense.
The undercoat consists mostly of keratinized cells that are dead at maturity but remain attached to the follicle.
These cells are responsible for giving the coat its color and texture. The undercoat is more common in northern breeds than those from warmer climates because it provides extra insulation during colder months.
What to do when a great Pyrenees dog is showing the symptoms of hypothermia?
If you notice your Great Pyrenees is showing any of the symptoms of hypothermia, it’s important to act quickly.
- If the dog is conscious and can walk on its own, help it out of wet clothing and dry off. A warm blanket will help keep them warm as well.
- If the dog is unconscious, call your vet immediately and seek emergency care at a nearby vet or animal hospital.
Conclusion
The temperature of your Great Pyrenees’ surroundings is a good indicator of whether he or she is too cold.
If you have any concerns about your dog’s health or well-being, contact your veterinarian immediately.