If your dog fits any of the categories below, they’re likely more cold-sensitive than you think.
Feeling cold isn’t a personality trait—it’s a result of biology, age, body composition, and environment.
Why Do Some Dogs Get Colder Than Others?
Veterinary and canine physiology research shows that a dog’s cold tolerance mainly depends on:
-
Coat structure (single coat vs. double coat)
-
Body size and body fat
-
Exposure to wind and moisture
If any of these are lacking, dogs may experience discomfort below 10°C (50°F)—especially in damp winter conditions.
The 5 Types of Dogs That Get Cold Easily
1️⃣ Short-Haired (Single-Coat) Dogs
Examples: Weimaraner, Greyhound, Beagle, Doberman
Why they get cold:
-
No insulating undercoat
-
Skin is directly exposed to cold air
-
Rapid heat loss around the belly and underarms
📌 Many short-haired dogs begin losing body heat at 7–10°C (45–50°F).
2️⃣ Small Dogs (Under 10 kg / 22 lbs)
Examples: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier, Dachshund
Why they get cold:
-
Larger surface area relative to body mass
-
Faster drop in core body temperature
📌 Studies show small dogs display shivering and curling behaviors more frequently below 10°C.
3️⃣ Lean, Low-Body-Fat Dogs
Examples: Greyhound, Whippet, Weimaraner
Why they get cold:
-
Body fat acts as natural insulation
-
Lean builds store and retain less heat
📌 Even medium-to-large dogs can be cold-sensitive if body fat is low.
4️⃣ Puppies and Senior Dogs
Why they get cold:
-
Puppies: immature temperature regulation
-
Seniors: slower metabolism and circulation
📌 Veterinarians agree that puppies and senior dogs tolerate cold significantly worse than healthy adult dogs.
5️⃣ Dogs Living in Cold & Damp Environments
Even cold-tolerant dogs can struggle in the wrong environment.
What moisture changes:
-
At humidity levels above 70%, perceived temperature can drop 5–8°C (9–14°F)
-
Wet fur loses 30–40% of its insulation ability
👉 This is why dogs in places like Taiwan, Japan, and much of Europe often feel colder—even without snow.
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Cold
If you notice any of the following, your dog is likely losing body heat:
-
Shivering or trembling
-
Curling up tightly
-
Reluctance to walk or go outside
-
Cold ears, paws, or belly after walks
These are physiological signals, not stubborn behavior.
Expert Advice: Layering Works Better Than One Thick Coat
Veterinary recommendations align closely with outdoor apparel science:
👉 Maintain core warmth + block wind and moisture + preserve freedom of movement
🧥 The PETT2GO Layer System (For Dogs)
① Inner Layer｜Insulation / Mid Layer
-
Best for: short-haired dogs, small dogs, indoor wear
-
Function: stable warmth without restricting movement
② Outer Layer｜Wind & Water-Resistant Shell
-
Best for: outdoor walks, rain, camping
-
Function: blocks wind and moisture, prevents rapid heat loss
📊 Field testing and outdoor wear data suggest:
Layering reduces core temperature fluctuation by ~20–30% compared to a single bulky coat.
A Practical Takeaway for Dog Parents
Not every dog gets cold—but cold-sensitive dogs shouldn’t be forced to endure it.
If your dog fits even one of these categories,
don’t wait for shivering to start.
A lightweight, modular layering system helps your dog stay warm without sacrificing movement or comfort—
which is exactly what the PETT2GO Layer System is designed for. 🐕❄️