When the temperature drops, remember how important it is to keep your dog warm and safe. During the winter, dogs require assistance staying warm, even with fur coats.
Naturally, some breeds—particularly those with double coats, which offer insulation from the winter climate- are better adapted to colder climates than others.
Read on about the dog breeds that are more at risk due to being exposed to cold weather.
1. Basenji
The Basenji has short hair and is native to Africa. It is best known for its coiled tail and unique yodel when it vocalizes.
The Basenji is a very athletic breed and enjoys dog sports, including long running, hiking treks, climbing hills, and even agility, which should engage their athletic and sporting ability.
Unfortunately, very cold weather inhibits their ability to perform activities outdoors, and the short and fine coat of the Basenji will not insulate the dog against freezing temperatures for long.
2. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs‘ short muzzles make it difficult for them to stay cool in hot weather. In extreme temperatures, these flat-faced dogs do not tolerate cold weather either.
Despite the fact that French Bulldogs’ short, thin coats don’t offer much insulation in colder climates, a dog sweater or jacket can offer some protection. Having said that, it’s best to limit outdoor activities with a Frenchie in hot or cold weather.
3. Pug
Another common flat-faced dog breed is the pug, but like all flat-faced dogs, they have trouble breathing and are prone to overheating because of their short muzzle.
Cold-weather outings should also be limited due to the pug having short coats that offer little protection against the cold.
Additionally, because Pugs aren’t active dogs, you could rationally assume a brief episode of indoor play at times of inclement weather may be sufficient.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are tiny dogs that weigh less than ten pounds but have a huge personality.
Their energetic and spirited personalities make them curious and adventurous, but also reliant on humans due to their small build; they shouldn’t be left outside in the bitter cold for a long time due to possible hypothermia.
5. Whippet
Whippets are another dog breed in the hound group and are a close relative to Greyhounds. They should never be left outside in windy or cold weather because of their thin bodies, which make them extremely fast.
When Whippets are in bad weather, they should not be left exposed to the wild weather. This could mean wearing warm knit clothing and possibly dog boots to protect their paw pads from freezing.
6. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are similar to greyhounds in many ways, including having a short, thin coat and a similar body. They are considered a type of toy breed and therefore don’t do well in cold weather.
Don’t be shocked if your Italian Greyhound becomes even more snuggly with you as the weather gets colder. To keep your Italian Greyhound warm when you’re not there to cuddle, choose a comfortable donut bed.
7. Chihuahua
The charming Chihuahuas are sassy and small. These guys have thin fur coats and do not have much that may protect them from a chilly climate.
They don’t like the cold, and if you put them somewhere like that, they might only survive in your purse or fur jacket. Due to the extreme cold, this small breed can shake up, shiver, and be inconsolable.
Provide your Chihuahua with layers of clothing, blankets, shoes, jackets, and bedding to keep them warm if you live in an extremely cold climate.
8. Chinese Crested
A hairless Chinese Crested has little defense against cold weather, with just tufts of hair on the head, feet, and tail. These small, delicate-boned dogs should be kept indoors when the temperature drops and should be covered by a dog coat.
It is also beneficial for Chinese Cresteds to wear a light layer of dog clothing indoors if your home is drafty.
9. Greyhound
With a lean body with minimal body fat and a thin coat that dissipates heat quickly, the Greyhound can run at lightning speeds. While these features make these dogs track stars, they’re less suited for cold weather conditions.
Keep outdoor exposure brief when temperatures are below freezing, and don’t be surprised if your Greyhound needs a layer of clothing to stay warm.
10. Basset Hound
Breeds like Basset Hounds and even Corgis have short legs. That is the reason they are likely to stay closer to the floor or ground. If you live somewhere that gets a lot of snow, your Basset Hound’s belly will probably be in constant contact with the icy exterior. Verify that your pet is not shivering, shaking, barking, or whining.
Keep them warm with the right clothing that covers up their bellies. Protect their ears if it’s too windy. Serve a healthy and natural treat that can keep them occupied inside the house. Nutribles Himalayan Dog Chew, the long-lasting and nutritious snack sticks, can be the perfect option for you.
11. Poodle
When you initially look at this dog and its luscious coat of curly fur, you might believe that this breed has no reason to hate the cold. However, this coat is incredibly deceiving. It is not very effective at keeping poodles warm, and it is even less effective at preventing their skin from feeling damp.
This fur can bring about its own set of problems if not dealt with, too. It can lead to the fur becoming matted and tangled up. Therefore, try not to pass judgment if you see poodle owners outfitting their dogs entirely in winter clothing this season; they need the protection!
12. Dachshund
Imagine if every time it snowed lightly outside, that snow always reached up to your neck (or higher!) As you might think, that isn’t a pleasant sensation.
The fact is that dachshunds have notoriously short legs and, by nature, always stay close to the ground. Come wintertime, this can become quite an issue, as even “light” snowfall can prove to be overwhelming for the stout breed.
In addition, the dachshund’s thin coat is barely snowproof, so their health may suffer from the combination of exposure and lack of protection.
Conclusion
Certain dog breeds are much more thrilled than others when winter arrives. Some dogs are sensitive to the cold, but it’s not unusual to see a few of them strutting around in full winter attire!
Your dog may detest winter for various reasons, including anxiety disorders, age, and health concerns. Several dog breeds dislike the cold, but what sets this group apart is their genetic and historical need to keep themselves warm and toasty.
