Dog Breeds That Can’t Handle the Cold
Dog Breeds: When winter hits, these pups would rather stay warm inside.
By PetsAndYou.org
Some dogs were born for snow—think Huskies and Malamutes. But many popular breeds simply aren’t built for cold weather. Thin coats, low body fat, or flat faces can make winter uncomfortable or even unsafe for them. Still, every dog needs exercise, enrichment, and potty breaks, so understanding how to support cold‑sensitive pups is essential.
To help pet parents keep their dogs safe and cozy, we’ve put together a complete guide to the breeds that struggle most in cold temperatures—and how to protect them all winter long.
PetsAndYou.org Exclusive Winter Savings
Stay warm, stay prepared, and save on winter essentials for your pup.
Use code: 12%OFF at checkout on PetsAndYou.org for 12% off your entire order.
Key Takeaways
• Many dogs with thin coats, low body fat, or flat faces struggle in cold weather.
• Winter gear—sweaters, jackets, booties—helps keep cold‑sensitive breeds safe.
• Watch for shivering, paw lifting, or reluctance to walk in low temperatures.
• Indoor enrichment is essential when outdoor time must be limited.
Breeds That Don’t Tolerate Cold Weather
Below are the most common breeds that dislike winter—and what you can do to help them stay warm.
1. Chihuahua
Tiny, charming, and always chilly.
Chihuahuas weigh just a few pounds and lose heat quickly. They often shiver indoors and love burrowing under blankets. A warm sweater is practically a necessity for them in winter.
2. Greyhound
Built for speed, not snow.
Greyhounds have extremely short coats and very little body fat. They get cold fast and often need a jacket even for quick potty breaks. Indoors, they gravitate toward sunny spots and soft blankets.
3. French Bulldog
Adorable but temperature‑sensitive.
Frenchies have short coats and flat faces, making cold air tough on their breathing. Keep winter walks short and bundle them up before heading outside.
4. Italian Greyhound
Elegant, slender, and always seeking warmth.
These delicate pups have thin skin and minimal insulation. Many Italian Greyhounds need sweaters indoors and a warm jacket outdoors.
5. Basenji
Warm‑weather origins = winter struggles.
Basenjis come from central Africa and have sleek coats that offer little protection from cold. Puzzle toys and indoor games help them burn energy when it’s too chilly outside.
6. Chinese Crested
Hairless + winter = a bad combination.
With little to no fur, the Chinese Crested needs sweaters, jackets, and warm bedding. They thrive with indoor play and short outdoor sessions.
7. Miniature Pinscher
Bold personality, minimal insulation.
Min Pins dislike cold, wet, or snowy conditions. Indoor games and short, brisk walks work best during winter months.
8. Boxer
High energy, low cold tolerance.
Boxers have short coats and flat faces, making cold air uncomfortable. They still need daily exercise, so keep sessions short and watch for signs of discomfort.
9. American Pit Bull Terrier
Muscular but not winter‑ready.
Pitties have short, thin coats that offer little insulation. They benefit from warm jackets and paw protection during winter walks.
10. Whippet
Another sleek sprinter who hates the cold.
Whippets lose heat quickly and often tremble in chilly weather. A snug coat and limited outdoor time help keep them comfortable.
11. Great Dane
Huge body, surprisingly low cold tolerance.
Despite their size, Great Danes have short coats and low body fat. They need warm outerwear and shorter outdoor sessions when temperatures drop.
12. Pharaoh Hound
Sun‑loving and desert‑bred.
These elegant dogs come from warm climates and aren’t built for winter. They prefer indoor play when temperatures fall.
13. Pug
Cute wrinkles, sensitive breathing.
Pugs struggle with both heat and cold due to their flat faces. Keep winter outings brief and rely on indoor enrichment to maintain a healthy weight.
14. Xoloitzcuintli
Hairless heritage means winter gear is a must.
Xolos have thick skin but little to no fur. They need sweaters, jackets, and warm bedding to stay comfortable in cold weather.
15. Bull Terrier
Short coat + stocky build = chilly pup.
Bull Terriers love activity but dislike cold temperatures. A warm hoodie or jacket helps them stay comfortable on winter walks.
How to Keep Cold‑Sensitive Dogs Safe in Winter
✔ Dress them appropriately
Sweaters, jackets, and booties make a huge difference.
✔ Limit outdoor time
Short, frequent potty breaks are safer than long walks.
✔ Provide warm bedding
Blankets, heated pads, and cozy dog beds help maintain body heat.
✔ Use indoor enrichment
Puzzle toys, training games, and fetch sessions keep them active.
Cold‑sensitive dogs can live happy, active lives with the right winter care.
12% OFF – Use code: 12%OFF | Free shipping to all 48 continental U.S. states | Other U.S. destinations available via our logistics experts.