10 Dog Breeds That Don’t Do Well in Cold Weather

While some dogs were practically born to romp through snowdrifts, others aren't built for the cold and need a little extra care when the weather turns frosty.

Not every dog’s coat is designed to keep them warm in winter. Small size, thin fur, and certain body types make some breeds more vulnerable to the cold than others. If your pup falls into this category, you’ll want to take a few extra precautions during the colder months.

Here are 10 dog breeds that don’t handle cold weather well—and what you can do to keep them safe and comfortable.

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1. Chinese Crested

With its mostly hairless body and delicate frame, the Chinese Crested doesn’t stand a chance against freezing temperatures. They only have small patches of fur on their head, feet, and tail—definitely not enough to stay warm.

Winter tip: Dress them in cozy layers, even indoors if your home tends to be drafty.

2. Chihuahua

Tiny and thin-coated, Chihuahuas are notoriously sensitive to the cold. Their small size and minimal body fat make it hard for them to retain heat.

Winter tip: Keep outdoor time short and provide plenty of indoor enrichment to keep them active.

3. Basenji

Originally from Africa, Basenjis have sleek, short coats that offer little insulation. They love outdoor activities but aren't made for winter adventures.

Winter tip: Bundle them up for walks and try indoor play when it's especially cold outside.

4. French Bulldog

Frenchies don’t do well in any extreme weather. Their short snouts and thin fur make it tough to handle both heat and cold.

Winter tip: Keep walks brief during cold snaps and invest in a warm, snug dog coat.

5. Greyhound

Built like athletes, Greyhounds have very little body fat and short fur—perfect for racing, not for snow days.

Winter tip: Limit time outdoors in the cold and consider a full-body dog coat for extra warmth.

6. Italian Greyhound

These petite pups are just as chilly-prone as their larger cousins. Their thin coats and fragile frames make them extra sensitive to lower temperatures.

Winter tip: A soft sweater and a cozy dog bed go a long way in keeping them toasty.

7. Whippet

Another lean, short-haired breed, Whippets struggle with winter weather. Their minimal insulation means they cool down fast.

Winter tip: Use jackets and even dog boots to protect them from cold pavement and icy surfaces.

8. Pug

Pugs are cute little snugglers, but they’re not made for the cold. Their short muzzles and fine coats make it harder to regulate body temperature.

Winter tip: Keep play sessions indoors and limit outdoor exposure during cold weather.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

These tiny dynamos are always ready for action, but their small size makes them vulnerable to the cold.

Winter tip: Dress them warmly for walks and avoid exposing them to freezing temps for long periods.

10. Miniature Pinscher

Min Pins may be confident and energetic, but their thin coats and compact bodies don’t offer much protection from the elements.

Winter tip: Layer up and stick to active indoor games when it's too cold to go out.