12 Dog Breeds That Should Never Be Exposed to Cold

Cold weather can be brutal for certain dog breeds, particularly those with thin coats, small bodies, or minimal body fat. While some dogs, like Huskies and Saint Bernards, are built for frigid temperatures, others are highly sensitive to the cold and can suffer from hypothermia, frostbite, or respiratory distress if exposed for too long. If you live in a cold climate or plan to travel somewhere chilly, knowing which breeds need extra protection is essential.

Dogs that are not suited for the cold often shiver, refuse to walk on icy surfaces, or show signs of distress when temperatures drop. Even if they enjoy outdoor time, their bodies may not be equipped to handle prolonged exposure. Understanding their vulnerabilities and taking precautions, such as dressing them in warm clothing and limiting time outside, can make all the difference. Here are 12 dog breeds that should never be exposed to cold weather for extended periods and what you can do to keep them safe.

1. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds, and their tiny bodies lose heat rapidly in cold weather. Their short, thin coats provide little insulation, making them extremely vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Many Chihuahuas shiver even in mildly cool conditions, and their delicate paws can be easily irritated by ice or snow.

How to Protect Them: Always dress them in a warm sweater or coat before heading outside, even for short walks. If it’s particularly cold, limit their outdoor time to just bathroom breaks and provide a cozy indoor environment with heated blankets or a well-insulated pet bed.

2. Greyhound

Despite their reputation as fast runners, Greyhounds are actually couch potatoes who love warmth. They have very little body fat and an extremely short coat, offering almost no protection against the cold. Greyhounds are known to shiver even in mildly cool temperatures, and they are at a high risk of hypothermia if left outside for too long.

How to Protect Them: Greyhounds should always wear an insulated coat or sweater when going outdoors in winter. Soft, padded bedding can help them retain warmth indoors. A heated pet pad can also provide extra comfort during colder months.

3. Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds, the smaller relatives of Greyhounds, are even more vulnerable to cold weather. Their thin skin and lack of an undercoat make it difficult for them to stay warm, and they often refuse to walk on cold surfaces. These dogs are prone to curling up in warm blankets and seeking heat sources indoors.

How to Protect Them: A well-fitted sweater or coat is essential for outdoor trips. If your home tends to get chilly, consider getting a heated pet bed or placing their bed near a warm area. Using dog booties can also help protect their sensitive paws from icy sidewalks.

4. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are not built for harsh weather. Their short snouts make breathing difficult in extreme temperatures, and their short coat provides minimal insulation. Cold exposure can cause breathing distress and discomfort, making them more susceptible to hypothermia.

How to Protect Them: French Bulldogs should be kept indoors as much as possible during winter. If they must go outside, they should wear a well-insulated coat, and their time outdoors should be kept brief. Providing a draft-free sleeping area with soft blankets will help keep them comfortable.

5. Pug

Like French Bulldogs, Pugs have a brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, which makes breathing in cold air even more challenging. Their short coats don’t provide much warmth, and they can quickly become uncomfortable in freezing temperatures. They are also prone to shivering and seeking warmth near heat sources.

How to Protect Them: Keep outdoor activities short and always dress them in a sweater or coat. Using indoor heating and a soft, warm pet bed will help keep them cozy.

6. Dachshund

Dachshunds have short legs and long bodies, meaning their bellies are often close to the ground. This makes them more prone to feeling the chill from snow, ice, and cold pavement. Their short fur doesn’t offer much insulation, leaving them vulnerable to temperature drops.

How to Protect Them: Dachshunds should wear winter coats when going outside, and avoiding icy surfaces can help prevent discomfort. Providing extra bedding and blankets indoors can keep them warm and comfortable.

7. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is one of the most vulnerable breeds when it comes to cold weather. With almost no fur to provide warmth, they can quickly become chilled, even in mildly cool conditions. These dogs prefer warm climates and are happiest indoors.

How to Protect Them: Always dress them in a coat or sweater, and if temperatures drop too low, avoid taking them outside altogether. Heated pet pads and warm blankets can help them stay comfortable indoors.

8. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies may have long hair, but their fine, silky coat doesn’t provide much insulation. Their small size also means they lose heat quickly, making them particularly vulnerable to cold weather.

How to Protect Them: Keeping their coat well-groomed and dry is important, as damp fur can make them even colder. They should always wear warm clothing in winter, and their indoor space should be kept at a comfortable temperature.

9. Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pinschers have a sleek, short coat that offers little protection from cold weather. They are highly sensitive to temperature changes and may refuse to walk outside in cold conditions.

How to Protect Them: Keep walks short and dress them in warm clothing. Indoors, provide a cozy resting spot away from drafts.

10. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers, like other brachycephalic breeds, have difficulty breathing in cold air. Their short coat does little to protect them from winter temperatures, making them prone to shivering and discomfort.

How to Protect Them: Boston Terriers should always wear a coat outdoors, and they should be given soft blankets and a warm sleeping area indoors.

11. Whippet

Whippets, much like Greyhounds, have an ultra-thin frame with little body fat to keep them warm. They are highly susceptible to hypothermia if left in the cold for too long.

How to Protect Them: Whippets need insulated coats and a warm indoor space. Avoid prolonged exposure to cold air, and ensure they have access to soft, warm bedding.

12. Maltese

Maltese dogs have long hair, but their lack of an undercoat makes them highly sensitive to cold weather. Their small size means they struggle to generate enough body heat, and they can easily become chilled.

How to Protect Them: A well-fitted sweater or coat will keep them warm on chilly days. Keeping their fur dry and providing a warm indoor space with blankets will help maintain their body temperature.

Not all dogs are built for cold weather, and exposing these breeds to low temperatures can put their health at risk. If you own a breed that struggles in the cold, always take precautions such as dressing them in warm clothing, limiting outdoor exposure, and providing a cozy indoor space. Watching for signs of discomfort, such as shivering or reluctance to go outside, can help ensure your furry friend stays safe and comfortable throughout the colder months.