When the temperature is so cool and freezing, do not think twice about keeping your dog safe and comfortable. You may think they can resist cold with their furry coat. The fact to note is that all dog breeds do not have furry coats and they still need help keeping warm in winter. Some dog breeds are better suited to cold weather. Their double-coated skin provides insulation against the elements. However, other dog breeds can’t tolerate the cold because of their coat type, size, body structure, or other characteristics.
Here are the dog breeds that are most vulnerable to cold weather conditions.
1. Chinese Crested
A hairless Chinese Crested has tufts of hair on the head, feet, and tail. It has very little capability to resist cold weather. These small, delicately built dogs are sensitive to cold weather and should wear a dog coat outdoors when temperatures fall. Chinese Cresteds may also benefit from a light layer of doggy clothing indoors, especially if your home tends to be drafty.
2. Chihuahua
 Chihuahuas are small in size. So, they are prone to getting cold quickly. They weigh less than 6 pounds, these pups are well suited for the warm climate of their Mexican homeland. Chihuahuas can lose body heat rapidly when the temperature plummets. Therefore, it’s important to minimize cold weather exposure.
3. Basenji
Bsenji hails from Africa. The short-haired Basenji has a coiled tail and unique yodel. These dogs are athletic and energetic, making outdoor activities like running, hiking, and agility excellent ways to challenge their mind and body. But, it’s difficult to damper on these outdoor activities, if it’s cold. The Basenji’s short, fine coat will not insulate the dog against freezing temperatures.
4. French Bulldog
Frenchies cannot easily tolerate hot weather because of their short muzzle. It makes them difficult to regulate their bodies against hot temperatures. But this flat-faced dog breed can’t tolerate cold weather very well, either. It’s because the French bulldog has a short, thin coat that does not provide much insulation when the temperature drops. You can wrap your bulldog with a dog sweater or jacket for protection. However, it’s better if you can avoid prolonged outdoor activities with a Frenchie in extreme weather, whether hot or cold.
5. Greyhound
The Greyhound has a lean physique with very little body fat and a very thin coat. It dissipates the heat rapidly. While these features make these dogs track stars, they’re less suited for cold weather conditions. For Greyhounds, you may keep outdoor exposure brief when temperatures are below freezing, and don’t be surprised if your Greyhound needs a layer of clothing to stay warm.
6. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound resembles a miniature Greyhound, sharing many of the same sleek, refined features, including a slim frame and a short, fine coat. Due to these traits, Italian Greyhounds aren’t well-suited for cold weather and need protection from both freezing outdoor temperatures and drafts indoors. Italian Greyhounds often seek extra warmth and comfort, making them prone to snuggling closer to their humans when it’s chilly outside.
7. Whippet
The graceful Whippet, designed for speed, shares a close lineage with the Greyhound. This breed’s short coat, thin skin, and minimal body fat offer little insulation against the cold. As a result, Whippets require extra protection in chilly weather, such as warm coats and possibly even dog boots to shield their paws from icy surfaces.
8. Pug
The Pug, with its distinctive flat face, is a popular breed that faces unique challenges due to its short muzzle, which can make breathing difficult and increase its susceptibility to overheating. However, cold weather also poses risks, as the Pug’s short coat offers limited warmth. Winter outings should be brief, and a quick indoor play session is typically enough to meet their exercise needs when it’s cold outside.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny but spirited companion, usually weighing under 10 pounds, with a big personality and an adventurous spirit. Despite their energy and curiosity, Yorkies are vulnerable in low temperatures due to their small size and are at risk for hypothermia if exposed to the cold for extended periods.
10. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher’s petite size and smooth, thin coat make it highly sensitive to cold weather. It stands no more than 12 inches tall and weighs around 10 pounds. This breed loses body heat quickly and needs extra care and warmth in cooler conditions.
