Written by Alain Courchesne, founder of Doggy Bathroom — designer of the original indoor potty system for small dogs.

Summary

Some dog breeds struggle in cold weather because of their small size, thin coats, or low body fat. Understanding which dogs are more sensitive to cold—and recognizing the early signs of hypothermia—helps owners protect their pets during winter. With proper precautions, even cold-sensitive dogs can stay safe, warm, and comfortable outdoors.

Takeaways

1. Some breeds are more vulnerable to cold.
   Small dogs, short-haired breeds, and dogs with low body fat (like Italian Greyhounds) lose heat quickly.

2. Watch for signs of hypothermia.
   Shivering, lethargy, weakness, and pale gums are warning signs that a dog may be too cold.

3. Prevention is simple.
   Limit outdoor exposure, use dog sweaters or coats, and provide warm indoor resting areas during winter.

Dog Breeds That Struggle in Cold Weather: Signs of Hypothermia in Dogs

Winter can be challenging for many dogs, but some breeds are especially sensitive to cold temperatures. Dogs with short coats, small body size, or minimal body fat often struggle to maintain their body temperature in freezing conditions.

Breeds such as the Chihuahua and Italian Greyhound are particularly vulnerable because they lack the thick insulating coats that help other dogs thrive in colder climates.

These dogs face a higher risk of hypothermia in dogs, which can lead to serious health complications if not addressed quickly.

Understanding which dog breeds struggle in cold weather allows owners to take proactive steps to keep their pets safe and comfortable throughout the winter months.

Why Some Dogs Struggle in Winter

Certain dogs are naturally less equipped to tolerate cold weather. Breeds with thin coats, lean bodies, or smaller frames lose body heat much faster than larger dogs with dense fur.

Some breeds, including French Bulldogs and Pugs, also have brachycephalic (short-nosed) airways, which can make breathing cold air uncomfortable.

Small dogs are especially vulnerable because they have a higher surface-area-to-volume ratio, causing them to lose heat more quickly.

Recognizing which dog breeds struggle in winter helps owners take precautions such as limiting outdoor exposure and providing warm clothing and shelter.

Impact of Cold Weather on Dogs

Cold weather affects dogs differently depending on their breed, coat type, age, and overall health.

Breeds with thick double coats—such as Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes—are naturally adapted to winter conditions.

However, many other dogs experience:

• Reduced tolerance for cold

• Lower activity levels

• Discomfort outdoors

• Increased risk of frostbite or hypothermia

Owners should watch for warning signs that a dog is feeling too cold, including:

• Shivering

• Whining

• Reluctance to go outside

• Slowing down during walks

Recognizing these early signals helps prevent more serious cold-related health problems.

Understanding Hypothermia in Dogs

Hypothermia occurs when a dog's body temperature drops below its normal range. This condition can become dangerous if a dog remains exposed to cold weather for too long.

Common signs of hypothermia in dogs include:

• Shivering

• Weakness

• Lethargy

• Confusion

• Slowed heart rate

In severe cases, hypothermia may lead to organ failure.

If a dog shows signs of hypothermia, bring them indoors immediately and provide warmth using blankets or warm water bottles. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.

Hypothermia Risk Factors

Some dogs are naturally more vulnerable to cold-related health problems.

Higher-risk groups include:

• Small dog breeds

• Dogs with thin coats

• Senior dogs

• Dogs with existing medical conditions

Breeds such as Chihuahuas and Italian Greyhounds are particularly sensitive because they lack both body fat and insulating fur.

To reduce the risk of hypothermia in dogs, owners should:

• Limit outdoor exposure in freezing weather

• Provide warm indoor bedding

• Use sweaters or coats when necessary

• Monitor dogs carefully during winter outings

Short-Haired Dog Breeds That Struggle in Cold Weather

Why Short-Haired Dogs Feel Cold Faster

Short-haired dog breeds often lack the insulation needed to retain body heat in cold weather.

These dogs typically have lean body structures and minimal undercoats, making them especially vulnerable to winter temperatures.

Owners of short-haired breeds should provide additional warmth through clothing, blankets, and reduced exposure to harsh weather.

Breeds Most Affected by Cold Weather

• Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are extremely small dogs with thin coats. Their tiny size causes them to lose body heat quickly, making them highly sensitive to winter temperatures.

• Italian Greyhound

  Italian Greyhounds have sleek bodies and very little body fat. Their short coats offer minimal protection from cold weather.

• Whippet

  Whippets share similar characteristics with Italian Greyhounds, including low body fat and short hair, making them prone to feeling cold quickly.

• Basenji

  Basenjis have short coats that provide little insulation. They often seek warmth indoors and may require protective clothing in colder climates.

Other Dog Breeds That May Struggle in Cold Weather

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have short coats and compact bodies that provide minimal protection against cold temperatures.

• Yorkshire Terrier

  Yorkies have long but very fine hair that offers limited insulation against harsh winter weather.

• Pug

  Pugs have short coats and brachycephalic airways, which can make breathing cold air uncomfortable.

• Dachshund

  Dachshunds have long bodies and short legs that bring them closer to cold ground surfaces, increasing their sensitivity to winter conditions.

• Chinese Crested

  With very little body hair, Chinese Cresteds are extremely vulnerable to cold temperatures.

Tips for Keeping Cold-Sensitive Dogs Comfortable

Use Protective Clothing

Dog sweaters, jackets, and booties can provide essential protection for dogs that struggle in cold weather.

Choose breathable materials that allow freedom of movement while keeping your dog warm.

Warm indoor bedding or heated dog beds can also help maintain body temperature while resting.

Limit Outdoor Exposure

When temperatures drop significantly, reduce the amount of time your dog spends outside.

Short walks are beneficial, but owners should watch for signs that their dog is too cold, such as:

• Lifting paws off the ground

• Shivering

• Slowing down during walks

Scheduling outdoor activities during the warmest part of the day can help minimize exposure to extreme cold.

For small dogs that struggle with freezing temperatures, having an indoor potty option can also help maintain consistent routines during harsh weather. An indoor solution like the Doggy Bathroom system can help dogs relieve themselves safely without extended exposure to the cold.

 

Conclusion

Winter can present serious challenges for many dogs, particularly those with short coats or small body sizes.

By understanding which dog breeds struggle in cold weather and recognizing the symptoms of hypothermia in dogs, owners can take simple steps to protect their pets.

Providing warm clothing, shelter, and carefully monitoring outdoor time can help ensure dogs remain safe, healthy, and comfortable during the winter months.

Recommended Reading

Top 10 Best Small Dogs for Families and Kids
Create a Cozy Dog Den for Your New Puppy
Benefits of Dog Litter Boxes for Apartments

About the Author

Alain Courchesne is the founder of Doggy Bathroom. As a designer and pet parent, he created the original indoor potty system for small dogs, trusted by thousands of owners across North America. His mission is to make pet ownership easier and more hygienic, with thoughtful solutions that adapt to modern living.