13 Dog Breeds That Don’t Do Well in the Cold

Winter can be rough on certain dogs, no matter how tough or spirited they seem the rest of the year. Some pups start shivering the second you open the door, and others make it very clear that snow is not their idea of fun. Thin coats, small bodies, and low body fat all play a part, but for most owners, it just means shorter walks and a lot more blankets. If you live somewhere with real winters and your dog is on this list, you already know the routine. A jacket, a quick trip outside, and then straight back to the warmest spot in the house.

A fluffy brown Pomeranian wearing black booties stands on a snowy path in front of a red wooden house and snow-covered trees. The dog is on a leash and looks into the distance. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Chihuahua

A small dog peeks out from under a fluffy white blanket, showing only its face with large, alert eyes. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Chihuahuas may carry themselves with confidence, but their tiny bodies lose heat fast. Their thin coats offer almost no protection when temperatures drop, which is why they shiver the moment there is a chill in the air. Many owners end up relying on sweaters, blankets, and very short outdoor breaks to keep them comfortable. These dogs thrive in warm homes where they can stay close to a heater or curl up in a lap rather than deal with winter weather.

Greyhound

A woman with gray hair sits on a patio reading a book while a dog lies next to her on a cushioned surface. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Greyhounds have a graceful build that makes them incredible runners, but it also leaves them exposed to cold temperatures. Their low body fat and smooth coats provide little insulation, so they feel the cold more intensely than many other breeds. When winter arrives, they gravitate toward warm spots indoors and avoid long periods outside. They do best in climates where they can stay comfortable without heavy layering.

Whippet

A brindle Greyhound stands alert in a field of green grass, with a backdrop of blurred autumn-colored foliage. The dog wears a decorative collar and appears focused on something in the distance. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Whippets share many of the same cold-weather challenges as Greyhounds. Their slender bodies and minimal coats allow heat to escape quickly, making winter outings uncomfortable for them. They enjoy short bursts of activity but need to be brought inside as soon as they show signs of getting chilled. Indoors, they often burrow into blankets to stay warm. A cold climate requires extra planning for this sensitive breed.

Dachshund

Dachshunds have a bold attitude that can disguise how easily they get cold. Their short legs put them close to the ground where they feel the chill quickly, especially when snow is involved. Their coats do not offer much warmth, so they rely on jackets and brief outdoor time during winter. Most Dachshunds prefer staying inside where they can remain warm and comfortable rather than braving freezing temperatures.

Chinese Crested

A small, hairless dog with a long tongue sticking out sits on a wooden dock with boats in the background. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Chinese Cresteds struggle with cold weather more than most dogs. Their lack of fur means they have almost no natural protection, and even mild chills can be uncomfortable. They need layers, warm bedding, and limited outdoor exposure during winter months. Owners often find themselves covering them up frequently to keep them from shivering. A warm home suits this breed far more than a snowy climate.

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are extremely sensitive to cold due to their thin skin, light frames, and short coats. A slight drop in temperature can leave them uncomfortable, and they often need jackets even for quick walks. They are happiest indoors where they can curl up and stay warm. Winter climates can be a challenge unless owners are ready to provide constant protection from the cold.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers have a short coat that does little to keep them warm. Their small bodies and flat faces also make it difficult for them to breathe comfortably in frigid air. They tend to shiver easily and are more relaxed during winter when they can remain indoors. Outdoor time needs to be limited and planned around the warmest parts of the day to prevent discomfort.

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have a harder time regulating their temperature during both extreme heat and cold. Their short coats offer minimal insulation, and their flat faces make cold air a challenge to breathe. They quickly become uncomfortable in winter weather and rely on warm layers and short outdoor periods. A cozy environment suits them much better than long walks in freezing temperatures.

Miniature Pinscher

A small black and tan dog with pointy ears lies curled up in a teal dog bed on a wooden floor, looking up at the camera. A white blanket is draped on the bed next to the dog. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Miniature Pinschers are energetic and confident, but their short coats leave them vulnerable to the cold. They lose body heat fast and often need jackets even for brief outdoor activities. When temperatures drop, they prefer staying indoors where they can stay active without dealing with low temperatures. Winter climates require careful attention to keep them comfortable.

Chinese Shar-Pei

Shar-Pei dog with wrinkled skin lying on a bed with a patterned blanket and pillows in the background. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

You might think all that extra skin on a Chinese Shar Pei would keep them warm but it’s actually relatively thin. They can become uncomfortable in cold climates and need protection during winter months. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures can dry out their skin, which already requires special care. They are far more content in mild or warm conditions where their skin stays healthy and comfortable.

Boxer

Boxers have short, smooth coats and muscular builds that offer little insulation. They feel the cold quickly and often shiver when temperatures drop. Long winter outings can be tough on them, and they rely on layers and limited outdoor time. This breed is happiest inside during winter where they can stay warm and avoid the discomfort of cold weather.

Pug

A tan pug with a black face is lying on a gray sofa, looking at the camera with its tongue out. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Pugs have short coats and flat faces that make cold air difficult to handle. They lose heat easily and often need extra protection during winter walks. Long periods in freezing temperatures can lead to breathing discomfort and shivering. They prefer staying inside where they can stay warm with blankets and indoor playtime rather than dealing with icy conditions.

Maltese

A person lying on a bed with a white fluffy dog, both seem relaxed and happy. the dog, with its tongue out, is facing the camera. — Photo credit: Pexels.

Maltese have long, silky coats that look warm but lack the dense undercoat needed for insulation. Their small bodies lose heat quickly, which makes cold weather difficult for them. They benefit from warm clothing and short outdoor trips during winter. Inside, they enjoy cozy blankets and heated spots, which keep them comfortable until the weather improves.

11 Dogs That Can’t Handle The Heat

Dog being sprayed with hose outside on grass. — Photo credit: Pexels.

When the summer heat rolls in, it’s not just humans who feel the burn—our dogs do too. Certain breeds, especially those with short snouts or thick coats, can struggle to keep cool when temperatures soar. To help your pup stay comfortable and safe, it’s crucial to know which breeds are most at risk and how to manage their heat exposure. Here are some of the dogs that need extra care during those hot days so if your pet is on the list, make sure to pay extra care during the hottest time of the year.

Read it Here: 11 Dogs That Just Can’t Handle The Heat

11 Tips For The Perfect Hike With Your Four-Legged Buddy

A dog wearing a backpack and booties leads a group of hikers on a forest trail. — Photo credit: Pexels.

Planning a hiking trip with your dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences you share together, but it’s not as simple as just hitting the trails. To make sure both you and your furry friend have a safe and enjoyable time, you’ll need to prepare properly. From checking trail rules to packing the right essentials, here are 11 practical tips to help you both get the most out of your outdoor adventure. Get ready to create some unforgettable memories with your four-legged buddy!

Read it Here: 11 Tips For The Perfect Hike With Your Four-Legged Buddy