Hi all,

I have found this forum very helpful over the past few months and now have a question. I have (I think) a Basenji/Malamute or Husky mix (based on shelter, vet and anecdote). He is about 1 1/2 years old, 55 pounds, was a rescue dog from Tenn., and i have had him for 6 months. He lives indoors now on Cape Cod; is well-loved and fed; sleeps on my bed; gets along with my Burmese cat and other people of all ages; loves the dog park – complete with dogs of all hues -- and long walks; hates being left alone; and is an absolutely wonderful and wonderfully intelligent companion. But...

We had our first snowfall a few weeks ago. A couple of feet and dog (Dillon) adored it and spent time burrowing and plowing and romping. So, we kept going out and for our walks, blah blah. It snowed again a few days ago, and we did our stuff. But today was a bit warmer, the snow a bit less frozen and even though he has basically spent the last six months glued to my side, appears to want to be outside rather than inside.

We live in a relatively rural area, with loads of conservation land and reasonably safe roaming from traffic (although not necessarily coyotes).

Am I doing him a disservice making him come in and warm up? Is there something I should know about cold weather and him (I know that is an unanswerable question since you don't know him). Is it a sign that he is growing up and becoming more secure? Or, does he just adore cold and snow? (He abhors rain).

Any ideas would be very welcomed. Thanks.