What temp can a puppy be outside?

by Jannie
(Dallas, Or)

We just bought a 7 week old Amstaff/Lab puppy, her name is Nita and she weighs 10 lbs. She has been sleeping inside at night in a crate since we got her 2 days ago. She gets very loud with her whining and it's ok we expect it. I was just curious if she can handle sleeping in the garage, if the temp is 42 degrees or above, with a blanket over the crate and one to snuggle with?

We live in Oregon and unfortunately the garage isn't heated. I only ask because I am curious and I have been told she'd be fine... I haven't had a pup this small since I was a little girl and I would never want to do anything to hurt her.

Silly question I know but I hope you might have some idea what temp a pup this size could safely tolerate.






Hi Jannie
I really can't give you an exact figure in terms of what temperature would be safe for her, your vet would be the best person to ask that question of. I personally wouldn't want to put a pup in a garage that's below 55, especially at this age, but you'll need to ask your vet for a better answer.

However, I would strongly recommend that you don't put her outdoors or in the garage, as she needs to be with her family inside. She's still a baby and her whining is normal, given time and patience it will stop. I know it's disruptive to the family's sleep but that's part and parcel of being a puppy owner.. it goes with the territory.

She may even need a potty break during the night at this age, so if her crate was outside in the garage and you couldn't hear her she may be forced to pee/poop in her crate which would be a big step backwards in potty training. Also, puppies are more likely to soil their crates if there is something soft in there (such as a blanket or soft toy).

Raising a puppy is just like raising a child it takes time, effort, patience, love and sacrifice, but it's always worth it. Best of luck with Nita.