KayakinBoy
I was raised in the canebrake by an ol' mama lion
How cold can it get before I get concerned?
35 F or below is too cold. I put the outdoor dogs downstairs when it's too cold outside, then let them back out during the day.
Also I recommend that you put the dog in a crate when you bring it in. Dogs will not "mess" where they sleep. start by walking him every 2 hours. Then 3 or 4. Then 6, and he'll get used to it. Crate training is effective and neither of my outdoor dogs have "messed" in the house, thanks to crate training.