11 Dog Breeds That Should Not Go Outside When It’s Freezing 

While some dogs love bounding through the snow, others shiver at the mere thought of stepping outside in freezing temperatures. Not all breeds are built for winter, and some can quickly suffer from hypothermia or frostbite if exposed to the cold for too long.  

Short coats, small frames, and low body fat make certain dogs especially vulnerable in icy weather. If you have one of these breeds, extra precautions like cozy coats and indoor exercise are essential when temperatures drop. Here are 11 dogs that shouldn’t venture out in freezing weather.  

Chihuahua  

Tiny and thin-skinned, Chihuahuas lose body heat incredibly fast. Their small size means they can’t retain warmth, making even brief outdoor trips in winter a challenge. A snug sweater is a must for these delicate pups.  

Greyhound  

Despite their athletic build, Greyhounds have almost no body fat or thick fur to keep them warm. Their sleek coats may look elegant, but in freezing temperatures, they shiver within minutes.  

Italian Greyhound  

An even smaller version of the Greyhound, Italian Greyhounds are incredibly sensitive to the cold. Their thin skin and low-fat content make them prone to chills, meaning winter walks should be kept short and bundled-up.  

Chinese Crested  

With little to no fur to protect them, Chinese Cresteds struggle in cold weather. These hairless wonders are happiest indoors, preferably curled up in a blanket rather than braving freezing temperatures.  

Dachshund  

With their short legs and small stature, Dachshunds are closer to the cold ground, making them extra susceptible to freezing temperatures. Their thin coats offer little protection against winter winds.  

French Bulldog  

French Bulldogs are not only sensitive to heat but also to extreme cold. Their short snouts make breathing difficult in freezing air, and their stocky build doesn’t provide much natural insulation.  

Pug  

Like French Bulldogs, Pugs struggle in both hot and cold weather. Their compact noses make breathing in frigid air challenging, and their short coats do little to keep them warm in winter conditions.  

Yorkshire Terrier  

Yorkies may be small but have big personalities—unfortunately, that won’t help them in freezing weather. Their fine, silky coats provide little insulation, making even short outdoor trips in the winter a shivery ordeal.  

Boston Terrier

With their short fur and small frames, Boston Terriers are not equipped for icy weather. Their lack of body fat and sensitivity to temperature changes mean they should stay bundled up indoors.  

Whippet

Whippets are built for speed, not for snow. With their thin coats and lean bodies, they have no natural protection against the cold, making them one of the worst breeds for winter exposure.  

Shih Tzu  

Despite their fluffy coats, Shih Tzus are not built for the cold. Their long fur can become damp and icy, leading to discomfort and chills, so they prefer the warmth of an indoor environment.  

Conclusion

Winter can be a tough season for some dogs, but keeping them warm and comfortable is essential. If your pup is on this list, limit outdoor time, invest in warm dog gear, and create a cozy indoor space to keep them safe from freezing temperatures!