Belgian Malinois and Cold Weather: How Cold Can They Handle?

If you’ve ever met a Belgian Malinois, you know they’re tough, energetic, and smart as heck. But as much as these incredible dogs can handle almost anything thrown their way, you might be wondering—can Belgian Malinois handle cold weather? Well, the answer is both yes and no. Belgian Malinois in cold weather can go hand in hand. But, it really depends on how cold we’re talking and how prepared you and your dog are for those chilly temps. So, let’s reveal what you need to know about cold tolerance in Belgian Malinois.

Can Belgian Malinois Handle Cold Weather?

The short answer is: Yes, they can! But with limits. Belgian Malinois are hardworking dogs with an athletic build and a double coat, which gives them decent protection against cold weather. Their outer coat is weather-resistant, and the softer undercoat keeps them warm. However, that doesn’t mean they’re built for life in the Arctic.
If it’s just a brisk fall day or a mildly cold winter morning, your Malinois will probably be fine. They might even love it! These dogs are super active and love being outside, so as long as the temperature isn’t extreme, they can handle some time in the cold without any problems.

But what about when the weather gets really cold? That’s when things get a bit tricky.

What’s the Coldest Temperature a Dog Can Tolerate?

In general, dogs can tolerate temperatures down to around 32°F (0°C) without too much discomfort. But once it dips below freezing, things can get dangerous—especially if your dog is wet or there’s a biting wind.

For Belgian Malinois, who are typically in good shape and have that protective coat, they can likely tolerate temps down to 20°F (-6°C) for short periods. A short period means not more than an hour spent in running, walking, and training. However, once you hit that range, you’ll need to watch for signs that they’re getting too cold. If the temperature drops below 10°F (-12°C), it’s time to bring them inside or bundle them up in some doggy gear because that’s getting into serious danger territory.

Remember, just like us, every dog is different. Factors like age, health, and acclimation to the cold can make a big difference. Puppies and older dogs are more sensitive to the cold, and even a healthy Malinois can struggle if they’re not used to cold climates. 

What Is the Normal Temperature for a Belgian Malinois Dog?

Did you know that dogs have a different body temperature than humans? While our normal temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C), a healthy dog’s body temperature is between 101°F and 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C).

When you’re monitoring your Belgian Malinois in cold weather, it’s important to keep this in mind. If their body temperature drops below 99°F (37.2°C), they could be suffering from hypothermia, which is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention.
Signs of hypothermia include:

• Shivering (especially if it becomes uncontrollable)
• Raising legs while walking
• Weakness or lethargy
• Stiff muscles
• Pale or blue gums
• Slow, shallow breathing

If you suspect your dog is getting too cold, get them inside, wrap them in warm blankets, and call your vet. Your Mal needs a warm shelter and cozy bed just like you. 

Can Belgian Malinois Live Outside?

Alright, here’s a question that gets debated a lot—can Belgian Malinois live outside? Technically, they can, but it’s not ideal. These dogs are incredibly adaptable, but they’re also highly social and need a lot of mental and physical stimulation. Leaving them outside for long periods (especially in extreme weather) isn’t great for their physical or emotional health.

If you want your Malinois to spend time outside, make sure they have a well-insulated shelter that keeps out wind and moisture. The shelter should be raised off the ground, have a door to keep out the wind, and be filled with warm bedding. Even then, they should have plenty of time indoors with their humans—because honestly, what’s the point of having a dog if they’re not hanging out with you?

If you’re planning to allow your Mal to spend a lot of time outside, then we recommend you put a cozy dog jacket or vest on them. If there’s wet weather outside, then dressing them in a waterproof layer of clothes will mean a lot for their health. Just imagine how would you feel to walk outside on a rainy day without an umbrella. 

In case you’re searching dor the right jacket for your Mal, then we recommend you to check the “Ruff Weather” Belgian Malinois jacket. It’s waterproof and windproof and it will give your pet a maximum protection against cold. In case you’re planing to go hiking or strolling in the winter, then this dog jacket will be the perfect option. It also features reflective stitching and built-in harness, so you won’t need to use a separate one on your pet.

What Climate Do Belgian Malinois Prefer?

Belgian Malinois are pretty flexible when it comes to climate. They thrive in a range of temperatures, from mild winters to warm summers. Thanks to their double coat, they’re better equipped for cooler climates than breeds with short, thin coats (like Greyhounds, Yorkies,  or Chihuahuas).

That said, moderate climates are ideal. They can handle hot weather, but you’ll need to take precautions to keep them from overheating. When your Mal spends time in hot weather, make sure he/she has a shallow doggy pool to cool off. Besides, you can put a dog cooling vest on his body that will give him a pleasant cooling effect.

In cold weather, their coat offers decent protection, but as we’ve discussed, extreme cold can be dangerous if they’re exposed for too long.

So, if you live in an area with moderate seasons and not too many extremes, your Malinois will be one happy doggo.

Tips to Keep Your Belgian Malinois Safe and Warm in Cold Weather

If you live in a colder climate and want to make sure your Belgian Malinois stays cozy and healthy, here are some tips:

1. Dress Them Up: Don’t be shy about putting a coat or sweater on your dog. They might look at you funny at first, but they’ll appreciate it when the temperature drops.
2. Limit Outdoor Time: When it’s below freezing, keep outdoor time short. Let them play, go for a walk, and then bring them inside.
3. Check for Frostbite: Pay close attention to their ears, tail, and paws. These areas are most vulnerable to frostbite. If you notice pale or bluish skin, warm them up gently and call your vet.
4. Keep Them Dry: Wet fur in cold weather is a recipe for disaster. Always dry your dog off if they get wet from rain or snow.
5. Provide a Warm Sleeping Area: Even indoors, make sure they have a warm, cozy spot to sleep—preferably not on a cold floor.

Conclusion: Belgian Malinois and Cold Weather

So, can Belgian Malinois handle cold weather? Absolutely, but with limits. These dogs are tough and love being active outdoors, but they’re not invincible. Knowing their cold tolerance and how to protect them from extreme temperatures is key to keeping them happy and healthy.

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