Cold weather can be tough on dogs, especially those breeds that aren’t built for the chill. While some dogs thrive in the snow and cold, others—due to their size, coat type, or body structure—struggle to stay warm and comfortable when the temperature drops. If you’re a dog owner with one of these sensitive breeds, it’s important to know how to care for them in cold weather to keep them safe and happy.
In this article, we’ll highlight 18 dog breeds that need extra protection when it gets cold and share tips on how to help them stay warm. From cozy coats to the best winter care routines, we’ll make sure you have all the info you need to keep your furry friend cozy no matter how low the temperature gets.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with big hearts, but their small size and thin coats make them vulnerable to cold temperatures. They lack the body fat and fur needed to keep them warm. To ensure their comfort during winter, consider purchasing a selection of stylish sweaters or coats.
On colder days, limit their outdoor playtime and provide plenty of indoor activities to keep them entertained. It’s essential to pay attention to signs of discomfort, such as shivering or reluctance to go outside, and act accordingly to keep your Chihuahua toasty and happy.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their sleek, athletic build and thin skin, which unfortunately doesn’t provide much insulation from the cold. Despite their racing prowess, they often need help staying warm.
Investing in a good-quality coat can make a significant difference for your Greyhound during winter walks. Additionally, keeping their bedding warm and placing it away from drafts will ensure their comfort indoors. Monitoring their activity levels and ensuring they don’t get too cold during outdoor excursions is crucial to their well-being.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound shares similarities with its larger cousin but is even more sensitive to chilly weather. Their thin coat and small frame offer little protection against the elements.
To keep this elegant breed warm, consider a wardrobe of warm, stylish coats for outdoor walks. Indoors, provide cozy blankets and heated beds to make them feel secure and snug. It’s also beneficial to keep them engaged with playing games and mental exercises inside, avoiding unnecessary exposure to cold temperatures.
Chinese Crested
The unique appearance of the Chinese Crested, with its hairless body, makes it exceptionally vulnerable to the cold. Without a thick coat to rely on, extra precautions are necessary to keep it comfortable.
Investing in high-quality clothing and limiting outdoor time during harsh weather is advisable. Inside, provide a warm, draft-free environment with plenty of blankets. Special skin care products may also be needed to protect against dry, cold air, ensuring your Chinese Crested remains healthy and happy throughout winter.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, often struggle with cold weather. Their underbelly being close to the ground can make them particularly susceptible to cold drafts.
Providing warm, waterproof clothing when they venture outside is essential. Indoors, ensure they have a cozy sleeping area away from cold floors and drafts. Engage them in fun indoor activities to keep their spirits high. A watchful eye on their reactions to the cold will help maintain their comfort and health during chilly months.
Basenji
Basenjis are known for their sleek build and short coat, which provide minimal protection against the cold. Originally from Africa, they are not naturally equipped for chilly climates.
A warm coat for outdoor activities is a must, along with monitoring their outdoor time to prevent discomfort. Indoors, keeping them active with toys and puzzles will help them burn energy without braving the cold. Ensuring their living space is warm and free from drafts will help your Basenji stay cozy all winter.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier’s long, silky hair offers little protection against cold temperatures. Despite their feisty demeanor, they are quite sensitive to the cold.
It’s important to dress them in warm, comfortable clothing for outdoor walks and ensure their indoor environment is cozy. Regular grooming can help maintain their coat’s health, but avoid cutting it too short during winter. Encouraging them to snuggle with blankets or in a warm dog bed will keep them comfortable during the colder months.
Whippet
Whippets, like Greyhounds, have a slim build and short coat, making them prone to feeling the cold. They are energetic dogs that love to run, but winter can be a challenging time.
Providing a warm coat for their outdoor adventures is essential. Inside, ensure their resting areas are warm and draft-free. Engaging them with indoor games and soft bedding will keep them content and warm. Keeping an eye on their comfort levels when outside will help manage their exposure to cold weather.
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, with its sleek, short coat, is sensitive to cold temperatures. Despite their spirited nature, they can easily get chilled without proper protection.
Dressing them in warm clothing when outside is important, and keeping their indoor environment snug with blankets and warm beds will ensure their comfort. Encouraging active play indoors will help them stay warm without needing to face the cold. Being attentive to their needs will help you keep your Miniature Pinscher happy and healthy during colder months.
Chinese Shar-Pei
Despite their wrinkles, the Chinese Shar-Pei’s short coat doesn’t provide much insulation against the cold. This breed, originally from warmer climates, needs extra care during winter.
A well-fitting coat for outdoor activities can help keep them warm. Indoors, provide a comfortable bed away from drafts. Regular skin care is also important, as their unique coat can be prone to issues in dry, cold air. Monitoring their comfort levels and adjusting their environment as needed will ensure a cozy, happy Shar-Pei throughout the season.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, with their long, luxurious coats, may seem well-equipped for winter, but they are actually quite sensitive to the cold. Their small size contributes to their susceptibility.
Regular grooming and a warm wardrobe for outdoor strolls will help them stay comfortable. Indoors, a warm, inviting space with plenty of blankets and a cozy bed will keep them snug. Engaging them with toys and indoor activities will also prevent any cold-induced lethargy, ensuring your Shih Tzu stays cheerful and warm.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian’s fluffy coat might suggest winter readiness, but their small size means they’re vulnerable to cold temperatures. Extra care is needed to keep them comfortable.
Outfits designed for warmth, along with limiting exposure to frigid weather, will help. Indoors, maintaining a warm environment and providing entertainment can prevent them from feeling the chill. Their luxurious coat requires regular maintenance, so ensure grooming keeps it healthy and insulating. Monitoring their reaction to cold will aid in maintaining their comfort.
Pug
Pugs, with their short coats and flat faces, are not well-suited for cold weather. They can struggle to regulate their temperature effectively.
Warm clothing for outdoor excursions is a must, and keeping their indoor space warm and inviting will ensure they remain comfortable. Providing soft bedding and engaging them in indoor play can help them maintain their usual cheerful demeanor. Observing any signs of discomfort and acting swiftly will keep your Pug happy and healthy during winter.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, like Pugs, have short coats and flat faces, making them cold-sensitive. They require extra warmth during colder months to stay comfortable.
Outfitting them with warm clothing for outdoor activities is important. Indoors, ensure their resting areas are cozy and protected from drafts. Keeping them entertained with toys and indoor games will help them stay active. Paying attention to their reactions in cold weather will guide you in making them feel snug and secure.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers, with their smooth coats, are not equipped for freezing temperatures. They need assistance staying warm during the winter.
A good-quality coat for outdoor walks can make a big difference. Indoors, providing a warm, cozy space with soft bedding will keep them comfortable. Keeping them entertained with activities and ensuring they don’t spend too much time in the cold is crucial for their well-being. Monitoring their comfort levels will help you provide the best care during winter.
Maltese
Maltese dogs, with their long, flowing hair, might look like they’d enjoy the cold, but they’re quite susceptible. Regular grooming is key to maintaining their coat’s insulating properties.
Warm clothing for outings and a cozy indoor environment will ensure their comfort. Engage them with toys and fun activities inside to keep their spirits high during winter. Paying close attention to their reactions to cold weather will help you cater to their needs, ensuring they stay warm and cheerful.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise’s fluffy coat can be deceiving; beneath it, they are sensitive to cold weather. Proper grooming helps maintain their coat’s protective qualities, but they still need extra care.
Warm clothing and limited outdoor time during colder days are recommended. Creating a warm indoor environment with plenty of entertainment will keep them happy. Monitoring their comfort and adjusting activities accordingly will ensure your Bichon Frise remains content during the chilly season.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, with their elegant coats, may seem fit for winter, but they benefit from extra warmth. Their small size makes them feel the cold easily.
Outfitting them in cozy clothing for walks and ensuring their sleeping area is warm and comfortable are essential. Engaging them in indoor activities will keep their spirits high during colder days. Paying attention to their behavior in cold weather and adjusting care as needed will help maintain their comfort.