Winter thermostat setting for an apartment with a dog

[njschurk]

This winter will be the first for me and my pooch living in an apartment where heat is not free. I live in Wisconsin, so, as you can imagine, it gets pretty darn cold in the winter. In years past I didn't have to worry much about what temperature to leave my apartment when I would be gone for work. Now, the price is a bit of a concern.

I want to make sure the temperature in my apartment is at a safe level, but also ensure that I'm not wasting energy and over paying. If it helps with suggestions, my dog is a 3 year old, 13 lb chihuahua/terrier mix, with a coat that's about an inch and a half long. He says "hello, and thanks for helping my know-nothing dad with this question!" http://i.imgur.com/SDy6x.jpg

[LoveMyBostons]

Also, pay attention to his feet during the winter. Rock salt can be very harsh on the pads of their feet, especially if they're cracked.

[Margot49]

I think it will be fine.  Do check into those fleece blankets

[njschurk]

Thanks for all the help. I'm definitely going to invest in some more blankets specifically for the dog. He wears a sweater just fine, so that will help as well!

[LoveMyBostons]

I live in Michigan and keep the heat around 66-68 during the winter. We have throw blankets on our chairs and couches and my 2 boston terriers (20-25 lbs) do just fine.

They sell something called a snuggle sack which is basically a sleeping bag for dogs. Maybe your dog would benefit from having one of those to burrow in while you're away at work. I'd just make sure there's a nice, cushy spot (a pile of blankets or a dog bed) so he's not lying directly on a cold floor while you're gone.

Will he/she tolerate wearing sweaters? They also have boots for pets but I could never convice my dogs to wear them. Also, I hope you have a programmable thermostat - those are great!

[Margot49]

Cute. :-)
The little dogs will definitely get chilly in the cold.  Can definitely understand the cost of utilities.  I don't see why maybe 68 should be fine and invest in a couple of sweaters.  A lot of little dogs like to burrow.  Check out a couple of the cheaper stores and see if you can pick up a couple of those fleece type baby blankets to put in the dog bed.  Those are warm and wash up well.  I have a little dog now and have those in her bed.