Leaving my dog inside without the heat on?

The last part of Mamabass's statement was dead on accurate.

We, being the frugal people we are, keep or heat at 58 to 60 all winter. Keeps the worst of the cold out and doesn't break us with heating bills. Oh, we do wear sweats in the house and throw a blanket over the dog. We have all survived this okay for a lot of years.

Depends on the dog, his coat etc. I'd suggest anything below 60 is a bit chilly, especially if he's just sitting around. It would be way too cold for my Whippet for instance, although maybe my Basset would cope. It also depends on whether the sun is out - my home gets pretty warm through the windows during the winter, regardless of the outside temperature, and my two are quite comfortable.

Actually it's always better to leave background heat in your home when you are out because that costs less than having to warm up the house from cold, when you get home.

Well it should be but you might want to put the heat on low. If this is not an option just make her a nice cozy den out of a dog house, box, furniture pushed together etc... and lots of blankets and pillows. It also depends on the type of dog, long hair short hair, remember some dogs can live outside in alaska, others take heat better. some short haired dogs get very cold. Either way I wouldnt make a habit out of doing this a lot tho.

They find a nice warm cozy place to curl up. Like your bed. A crate with a dog bed and blankets would be ideal.