Which dog breeds can’t handle cold weather? Take a look at this list of the TOP 10 dog breeds that hate the cold and discover which pets are ill-suited for cold climates.
Will you?
Of all the different dog breeds in the world (which I listed out in another video on my channel), these are the ones you should protect from low temperatures at all costs.
Let’s take a look at the top 10 dog breeds that hate the cold.
TOP 10 Dog Breeds That Can’t Handle The Cold!
Certain dog breeds are terrible at handling chilly weather and will often need assistance in the form of warm clothing to help them get through the winter.
What are the dog breeds in question?
The TOP 10 dog breeds that hate the cold:
10. The French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a kind and special little dog.
They’re great for first-time owners and they like having a warm place to call home. They’re not at all known for loving wintery weather.
Why?
French Bulldogs sport a short coat that, while easy to care for, leaves them vulnerable to low temperatures.
However, Frenchies are still humble and lovely little pets; just make sure to keep them warm!
9. The Pug
The Pug is yet another dog breed that’s ill-equipped to cope with freezing temperatures.
These dogs:
- rarely bark,
- are friendly toward everyone,
- aren’t overly energetic,
- aren’t difficult to care for.
But if you go out into the snow with your pug, make sure to dress them warmly!
8. The Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, also known as the American Gentleman, sheds very little, copes well with being alone, and rather prefers life…
…in a house or an apartment.
These dogs require a decent amount of physical activity, but unfortunately, they don’t handle winter temperatures too well.
Make sure to keep an eye on how your Boston Terrier is feeling when you take them out on their wintertime walks.
7. The American Pit Bull Terrier
A strong, powerful dog, and one often used for illegal dog fights, the American Pit Bull Terrier doesn’t cope equally well when confronted with the cold.
Pit Bull Terriers:
- possess a muscular look,
- are very agile, however…
…their short coats don’t offer enough insulation to protect them against low temperatures.
6. The Whippet
Whippets are known as extraordinarily fast dogs, their excellent acceleration being their main point of pride.
Naturally, they happen to be very muscular as well.
Some Whippets carry a genetic mutation that doubles their muscle mass, and these “bully” whippets are known as the most muscular dogs in the world.
But their short hair and low body fat provide little insulation, which means they’ll need extra protection during those frigid winter days.
5. The Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is well-known as one of the smallest dog breeds in the world.
Chihuahuas are an incredibly healthy and long-lived breed, but only if they’re well taken care of. Their small stature leaves them vulnerable, and they have a clear preference for warm environments.
Their low tolerance for cold weather grants them a spot on our list.
4. The Xoloitzcuintle
The Xoloitzcuintle is also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog. This famous and ancient breed is another one that prefers the comfort of warmer climates.
Why?
As their name suggests, their lack of hair is to blame for their sensitivity to cold. However, be careful with your Xolo – even if you live in a hot climate…
…their skin will burn in the sun.
3. The Chinese Crested Dog
Chinese Crested Dogs are excellent indoor dogs and love spending time with their owners. They are very friendly and will try to read your mind…
…in order to figure out how to please you.
Chinese Crested Dogs are another relatively hairless dog breed. In fact, apart from some hair on their heads, tails, and legs, they have almost none.
As with the Mexican Xolos, you should keep an eye on their skin since it’s exposed…
…and vulnerable to irritation, allergies, and sunburn alike.
2. The Peruvian Hairless Dog
Another dog breed that has a little bit of hair, but is classified as hairless according to the FCI breed standard. The Peruvian Hairless Dog is a rare breed…
…with almost no hair.
You’ll want to protect these dogs by applying sunscreen during the summer to prevent burns and dressing them in warm clothes in the winter to help regulate their body temperature.
1. The American Hairless Terrier
American Hairless Terriers aren’t exclusively hairless. This breed comes in two forms…
…namely:
- with hair,
- and without.
Although both of them are vulnerable to cold temperatures, the hairless one is more so.
On the other hand, these dogs:
- are easy to care for,
- and hairless ones don’t shed.
They are also considered a hypoallergenic breed, making them a great choice for any dog lover that happens to suffer from…
…dog hair allergies.
Worst Dogs For The Cold
This list of the top 10 worst dog breeds for wintery conditions aims to show off some breeds that will require extra special care if you happen to live in a cold climate. Time for a quick overview.
The worst dogs for the cold are:
10. French Bulldog
9. Pug
8. Boston Terrier
7. American Pit Bull Terrier
6. Whippet
5. Chihuahua
4. Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintle)
3. Chinese Crested Dog
2. Peruvian Hairless Dog
1. American Hairless Terrier
If you know of another dog breed vulnerable to cold climates, please share it with us in the comments section.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the top 10 worst dogs for cold weather. It shows off a selection of dog breeds that are ill-equipped to handle cold climates where temperatures often drop below freezing. These dog breeds tend to have a short or non-existent coat and require additional care during the cold winter months.
I’m a dog food judge. I specialize in examining dog food nutrition so that I can recommend you food that will preserve your dog’s health and extend his life. Good food will help you prevent dog health problems like obesity, diabetes, pancreatitis, gastroenteritis, nutritional imbalance, and many others. Also, by preventing serious illnesses you won’t have to pay huge veterinarian bill later.
