When most of us picture a healthy dog, we imagine warm ears, bright eyes, and a happy tail. So when your dog’s ears suddenly feel cool to the touch, it’s natural to wonder what’s going on. If your dog’s ears are cold, the cause can be simple and harmless, although sometimes it signals something that needs attention. Let’s walk through the most common reasons and what you can do to help your pup stay comfortable.
4 Reasons Your Dog’s Ears Are Cold
It’s Cold Outside
Cold weather is by far the most common reason your dog’s ears feel chilly. Ears have very little fat or insulation, which means they cool down faster than the rest of the body. Breeds with thin coats feel it even more.
Ways to Warm Your Dog Up
- Offer a cozy blanket or warm dog bed
- Use a lightweight doggy jacket or scarf during winter walks
- Bring them indoors more often during very cold days
- Try walking during the warmest parts of the day instead of early morning or late evening
Keeping your dog hydrated and well fed also supports their ability to regulate temperature.
Be careful: frostbite can develop during very cold weather. If your dog’s ears turn bright pink, become painful, or show any unusual changes, bring them inside and place a gently warmed cloth on the area. Call your vet for guidance.
Your Dog May Have an Illness
Sometimes cold ears are linked to illness, especially if your dog is also coughing, sneezing, or acting tired. Just like us, dogs can feel more chilled when they’re under the weather.
What to Do
Make sure they have a warm place to rest and plenty of fresh water. Let your pup sleep as much as they need while you arrange a vet visit. If your dog seems uncomfortable or the symptoms worsen, seek medical care sooner rather than later.
Your Dog’s Temperature Is Lower Than Usual
A dog who feels cold to the touch may actually be running a lower body temperature overall. Normal temperature ranges from 101.5°F to 102.5°F. If they feel cold or act lethargic, a temperature check can help you understand what’s going on.
You can learn how to take a dog’s temperature safely using guidance from VCA Animal Hospital.
Your Dog Has Poor Circulation
Although rare, poor circulation can cause cold ears. It may be linked to age, injury, or an underlying medical condition.
How to Support Healthy Circulation
- Gently massage your dog’s ears with a warm cloth
- Make sure they have a warm bed away from drafts
- Use a dog sweater in cool weather
- Keep your pup active with regular exercise
- Provide a balanced diet to support heart and vascular health
If the coldness persists or you’re noticing additional symptoms, it’s best to seek veterinary advice.
When to Take Your Dog to the Vet
You know your dog’s normal behavior better than anyone. If cold ears appear alongside symptoms like shivering, loss of appetite, bright pink ears, lethargy, or unusual behavior, contact your vet. Dogs experiencing abnormal body temperature should always be examined to rule out anything more serious.
How to Keep Your Dog Warm and Healthy
If your veterinarian has ruled out health concerns, there are several ways to help keep your dog comfortable when their ears tend to feel cold:
- Provide a warm bed with blankets or a soft cushion
- Keep the fur around their ears neatly trimmed to improve airflow
- Try a dog jacket, scarf, or booties in cold weather
- Use a gentle, veterinary-approved ear cleaning solution once a month
- Check your dog’s ears regularly for redness, swelling, odor, or discharge
If you notice any sign of an ear infection, please be sure to reach out to your vet promptly.
FAQ About Dogs With Cold Ears
Are cold ears always a sign that something is wrong?
Not always. Many dogs simply have cool ears when the environment is cold. It becomes a concern when the coldness is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms.
Should I warm my dog’s ears with my hands?
You can gently warm them with your hands or a soft cloth, but you want to avoid applying direct heat. A mild warm compress is enough.
Do senior dogs get cold ears more often?
They can. Older dogs may have slower circulation or reduced body warmth, so they tend to feel cooler in general.
Can stress or anxiety make my dog’s ears cold?
Occasionally. Stress can affect blood flow, and some dogs feel cooler when they’re anxious or overstimulated.
Is frostbite on the ears common?
It’s uncommon but possible in very cold weather. If your dog’s ears look pale, bright pink, or blistered, seek immediate veterinary care.
Final Thoughts
Most of the time, a dog’s ears are cold simply because the weather is chilly. Still, it’s smart to pay attention when something feels off. Offer warmth and comfort, check the surrounding environment, and monitor your dog’s energy and appetite. If cold ears come with other symptoms or you’re unsure, your local vet will always guide you in the right direction.
Sources and Further Reading
- Pedigree: My Dog’s Ears are Cold: The Causes and What to Do
- Toronto Humane Society: How to Tell if Your Pet is Cold and How to Help Them Stay Warm
- Instructions for Ear Cleaning in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospital
- 6 Reasons Your Dog’s Ears Feel Cold, According to a Vet | Betterpet
