9 Dog Breeds That Hate Winter

dog hiding under a blanket with only their nose sticking out

There are many dog breeds that thrive in the cold, prefer it, and love winter. Some dogs get cold easily, but love playing in the snow as long as they have a coat and some boots. At the same time, there are many dog breeds that hate winter and do not do well in the cold.

If you live in a colder climate, you’ll want to keep an eye out for dog breeds that are sensitive to cold and hate winter and make preparations to help keep them warm and get them through it. Here are some dog breeds that hate winter:

1. Basset Hound

Although they have a stocky frame, the Basset Hound has short legs, long ears, and a short, thin coat. Not only does this mean they get cold easily, but it also means they can have a lot of trouble getting through the snow.

One of the facts about Basset Hounds is that they have a short, stocky build. This also means that they tend to have more of their body in the snow because their bellies are often low enough to be in it! On top of that, their long ears get cold quickly and can also drag in the snow if they lean down to sniff anything.

2. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are small dogs with a short snout and a short coat. All of this means that they tend to get cold very easily and can experience breathing problems if it gets too cold. Plus, their small body and short legs can make getting through snow quite a challenge.

This can also contribute to breathing problems should they become too tired and out of breath. The Boston Terrier may put up with winter, especially if you bundle them up to help them stay warm, but they likely won’t enjoy being cold.

3. Chihuahua

With origins in Mexico, the Chihuahua is a small dog breed that is built for warmer weather. Their small size and short coat mean they get cold very easily and often need sweaters, coats, and more to stay warm as temperatures start to dip.

One of the facts about Chihuahuas is that they may shake when they are nervous or excited, but, more often than not, they’re shivering because they’re cold. A Chihuahua’s playful spirit may have them playing in the snow for a little bit, but you can bet they’ll get cold soon and seek warmth shortly after!

4. Dachshund

Some undeniable facts about Dachshunds are that they are known for their small, long bodies that are low to the ground. Whether they are short-haired or have a longer-haired coat, it’s still thin, so these dogs tend to get cold easily. Plus, their short legs often mean their bellies are low enough to get in the snow, which only contributes to them getting colder faster.

Due to their small size, the Dachshund can also easily get lost in snowdrifts and deep snow. So, if you’re taking your Doxie out with you into the snow, make sure you both bundle up and that you keep a close eye on them.

5. French Bulldog

Frenchies are another small, brachycephalic dog with a short coat. Not only will they get cold more easily than a dog with a thicker coat, but their short snout also means they may have problems breathing properly when they get too cold (or too hot) or are doing too much.

The French Bulldog, like any other flat-faced or snub-nosed dog, is particularly sensitive to respiratory problems. A simple cold or respiratory infection can quickly become dangerous for them, which can make winter a risky time.

6. Great Dane

One of the facts about Great Danes is that they are big dogs. But, they have a short coat and not much insulation, so they tend to get cold easily. They might be happy to play in the snow for a little bit if you put a coat and some dog boots on them, but they’ll likely be ready to come back inside and warm up after a short jaunt in the snow. A Great Dane might just prefer to stay inside and curl up on the couch instead.

7. Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher is a tiny dog with a short coat. One of the facts about Miniature Pinschers is that they are affectionate and the quintessential lap dog. They love to cuddle, snuggle in blankets, and stay warm.

Because they get cold so easily, they’re not likely to be fans of winter. Even if you bundle a Miniature Pinscher up, they may try to keep your walks out in the cold as short as possible so they can get back to the warmth as soon as they can.

8. Pug

With their big eyes, short snout, and flat face, the Pug is one highly recognizable dog. But, because they’re brachycephalic, they tend to have a lot of respiratory issues and a respiratory infection can quickly become dangerous for them.

Cold weather and the added difficulty of moving through heavy snow can be difficult for the small Pug to manage. Additionally, their big eyes leave a lot of sensitive surfaces exposed to the cold, which can cause its own slew of problems. Plus, Pugs have a short coat, so they tend to get cold more easily anyway.

You can bundle them up with coats and boots, which will help them stay warm when it’s cold out. But, you still need to keep their exposure to the cold minimum for the sake of their eyes and nose and make sure they’re not overexerting themselves.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier may have longer hair, but their coat is a single coat, which means it’s thin. Much like other small dogs with a thin coat, Yorkies get cold easily and need sweaters, coats, dog boots, and more to stay warm when temperatures start dropping.

As true companion dogs, they tend to prefer cuddling with their humans and staying warm and dry over getting wet and cold outside in the snow. They may play for a little bit as they do have a playful personality, but they will likely be ready to go back inside and warm up soon after.

These are some of the dog breeds that hate winter and they’ll likely need a good mix of winter dog products to stay warm and deal with it. If you love winter and want to go on a lot of outdoor adventures with your dog in the cold, these dog breeds may not be the best fit for you. Instead, take a look at some of the dog breeds that love winter to find a cold weather buddy that will be much more eager to play in the snow with you.