Do Shih Tzus get cold outside
Do Shih Tzu Get Cold in Winter? How To Keep Your Shih Tzu Cozy and Warm
Do Shih Tzu Get Cold in Winter? How To Keep Your Shih Tzu Cozy and Warm
BY MOLLY | EVERYTHINGSHIHTZU.COM | Updated September 20, 2023This post may contain affiliate links. Readprivacy&disclosurepolicy for info
You might think since your Shih Tzu comes complete with a long, silky coat; they are well protected against the cold weather that winter brings.
After all, they carry their own fur coat around with them twenty-four-seven!
However, while many dogs can withstand cold weather reasonably well, the Shih Tzu isn't one of these breeds.
A Shih Tzu doesn't care too much for cold weather, and they can definitely feel the chill of winter. This is mainly because Shih Tzu are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have short noses and flat faces that make them more susceptible to respiratory issues.
Some of these issues can be exacerbated by extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold.
While respiratory issues are a reason to keep your Shih Tzu protected from the cold, there are other reasons to protect your dog from chilly winter temperatures.
Shih Tzu and Tolerance to Cold Weather
Shih Tzus, known for their lively personalities and adorable lion-like appearance, boast a rich history that hails back to the palaces of ancient Tibet.
These pampered pets were bred to be royal companions, spending their days in the warm, lavish surroundings of the palaces, rather than the harsh outdoors.
It's no wonder, then, that their tolerance to cold weather is rather limited.
Due to their sensitivity to the cold, the Shih Tzu is prone to many problems when they have to endure cold weather.
These little lion dogs might be distinguished by their cute, short snouts, but it is precisely this feature that increases their fragility in cold weather.
Many dogs, like Siberian Huskies and Saint Bernards, for example, can endure very cold temperatures; it's inherent in their breed.
However, when it comes to the small, affectionate Shih Tzu, these pups would rather be inside, snuggled up on your lap.
Plus, like many small dogs, Shih Tzu can't hold onto their body heat very well, and their long flowing coats are very deceptive.
While beautiful, a Shih Tzu's coat is more like human hair than fur, and it isn't very thick, despite having an undercoat. Because of this, the Shih Tzu's coat actually offers little protection from the cold.
So, keeping your pup indoors during winter is best, but if you do plan to bring them outside, make sure you follow certain steps to help protect them from the elements.
What Temperature is Too Cold for a Shih Tzu?
Although the Shih Tzu doesn't like cold weather, that doesn't mean they can never go outside in winter.
In temperatures around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, especially when it's dry and the sun is out, your pup can likely handle a few minutes of outdoor time.
For example, a quick walk around the block or a few minutes of playtime in the back yard wouldn't be a big deal.
However, when the temperature starts to drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, or if it's cold and rainy, then you're better off staying inside.
It's important to keep a close eye on your Shih Tzu whenever you're out in cold weather.
If you start to notice signs that your furry friend is too cold, get her somewhere warm immediately.
In some cases, if you let her get too cold or wait too long to react, you might end up making a trip to the vet for hypothermia.
How Long Can Shih Tzu Stay Outside in Cold Weather?
Shih Tzu were not meant to live outside, in fact they are bred to be an indoor pet.
However, this does not mean they can't go outdoors to play in the snow, or go for walks. It just means you have to watch for indications they are cold.
When the temperature drops, here are a few signs to watch for that can signal your Shih Tzu is getting too cold:
- Your Shih Tzu won't go outside
- Your Shih Tzu tries to burrow into her bed or under blankets
- Your Shih Tzu is shivering
- Your Shih Tzu keeps lifting her paws off of the ground when she is outside
- Your Shih Tzu is barking or whining
- Your Shih Tzu has low energy or seems out of it
If your pup is showing any of the above signs, simply keep them indoors or get them somewhere warm.
However, should your dog show any of the following signs, it could be hypothermia, and they may need immediate attention from a vet:
- Your Shih Tzu starts to slow down and not move
- Your Shih Tzu is trembling
- Your Shih Tzu's coat and skin feels very cold
- Your Shih Tzu has a slow heart rate
- Your Shih Tzu has dilated pupils
- Your Shih Tzu has pale or blue gums
- Your Shih Tzu has trouble breathing
Hypothermia can lead to stiff muscles, kidney failure, and death.
But, as long as you take the proper precautions when the temperatures drop, you and your pup can have a safe, warm, and toasty winter.
Factors Influencing Shih Tzu's Sensitivity to Cold
There are multiple factors that can heighten a Shih Tzu's sensitivity to cold.
- Coat Length and Thickness
Firstly, the coat length and thickness play a significant role in how a Shih Tzu responds to cold temperatures.
Shih Tzus with longer, thicker hair can better retain body heat compared to those with short or thin hair.
Keeping this in mind, regular grooming can help maintain your Shih Tzu's coat in a way that optimizes warmth during winter months.
- Age and Health Conditions
Secondly, age and underlying health conditions are important factors.
Young puppies and older dogs are particularly susceptible to the cold. Likewise, dogs with certain health conditions, such as arthritis, can find the cold weather painful or uncomfortable.
Always consult with your vet to understand how your Shih Tzu's age or health conditions might affect their cold tolerance.
- Individual Variations in Cold Tolerance
Thirdly, remember that there are individual variations in cold tolerance.
Some Shih Tzus might simply be more resilient to the cold than others. Monitor your dog's behavior in cold weather to understand their unique comfort level.
- Acclimatization to Cold Weather
Lastly, acclimatization to cold weather over time can influence a Shih Tzu's sensitivity to cold.
A Shih Tzu that has been exposed to milder temperatures or indoor living may experience more discomfort in cold weather compared to one that has been gradually acclimatized to cooler conditions.
Despite this, remember that Shih Tzu are not inherently winter-hardy and should never be left outside in the cold for extended periods.
Understanding these factors will help tailor your approach to keeping your Shih Tzu cozy and comfortable during winter, ensuring they remain happy and healthy.
Tips on How to Keep Your Shih Tzu Warm in Winter
While most Shih Tzu dogs don't really care to be out in the cold temperatures for any length of time, older dogs are especially more sensitive to the cold.
With this in mind, here are some ways you can keep your Shih Tzu safe when it's cold outdoors.
- Keep Your Shih Tzu Indoors
This is absolutely a must for a Shih Tzu, no matter what the temperature is outdoors. A Shih Tzu is not meant to be an outside dog.
However, even though your pup is inside your warm home, also make sure her bed is in a warm spot. In other words, don't place their bed near a drafty door or window, and let them have an extra blanket to use.
It can also help if you elevate your pup's bed off of the cold floor, or if you're willing, let them sleep with you in your bed (they'll love that)!
- Limit Outdoor Walks and Activity
Be aware of how long your walks are and adjust your walk times to warmer times of the day. And, since you'll be taking less walks, you might want to try potty pads inside for your pup (just in case).
Also, take into consideration of how much you feed your Shih Tzu during the winter as they won't be exercising as much as usual and could become overweight.
- Dress for the Weather and Stay Dry
It's very unlikely that your Shih Tzu will never go outside during winter.
One of the most effective ways to keep your Shih Tzu warm during winter months is by investing in appropriate doggy attire, such as:
- sweaters,
- winter coats,
- booties.
These items provide an extra layer of insulation, protecting your furry friend from the cold.
Dog booties help protect your dog's paws and pads from the cold ground especially if there's snow or ice. Booties also keep your dog's feet safe from various chemicals used during the winter, like de-icers.
You can also put a special paw wax on your pup's pads to help keep them protected from cracking and becoming chapped.
A winter coat helps your pup keep body heat in instead of letting it escape.
Also, don't let your dog get wet. If they do get wet, ensure you dry them off completely as soon as possible.
And always make sure the clothing fits comfortably and doesn't restrict movement.
- Serve Your Pup Room Temp Water
Ensure the water you give your pup isn't overly cold. Especially if it's very cold outside, cold pipes can cause water to come out of the tap at an icy temperature.
Likewise, don't let your Shih Tzu eat ice or snow. Not only does this increase the chances of driving down their body temperature, but the snow and ice can contain dangerous chemicals like antifreeze or de-icers that can be very dangerous for your dog.
- Don't Leave Your Dog In the Car
For many, it's a no-brainer to not leave your dog in a hot car. However, many people don't think the same way when it comes to cold weather.
The temperature inside a cold car can get well below the outdoor temperatures very quickly, creating an extremely dangerous environment for your canine companion.
Basically, your Shih Tzu can enjoy winter, but it's important to keep them protected from the cold.
Always make sure to protect your pet from the extreme temperatures when they are outside, and make sure they have a warm place to sleep indoors too.
These tips are a great way to keep your pup safe and warm this winter. Plus, they're sure to look super cute in their doggy coat.
You might like these
Managing a senior dogs incontinence may be something you need to do for your loyal companion. Heres how you can make it cleaner, easier and more comfortable
Although it is possible that Shih Tzu can cause allergic reactions in some people, but they are still a good choice for allergy sufferers
Spaying your female Shih Tzu is best done before her first heat cycle, however, neutering a male Shih Tzu is a little different. Heres what you'll need to know
Share this with a friend:
Shih Tzu Cold Weather Guide: How to Keep a Shih Tzu Warm in Winter
Shih Tzus dont really like cold weather and get cold on winter nights. They are breed thats sensitive to the cold and can also become poorly when the temperature starts to drop. In fact, Shih Tzus can get colds just humans can.
In the following guide, I will explain all you need to know about Shih Tzus and cold weather. It includes tips on how you can keep your Shih Tzu warm in the winter months, plus advice on safety to keep them healthy and comfortable.
Why Shih Tzus dont tolerate cold weather
You might wonder; do Shih Tzus get cold? The answer would be yes, Shih Tzus do get cold in winter. This breed is brachycephalic which contributes towards them being more sensitive to lower temperatures. Their bodies lose heat quickly compared to other dogs, and they get breathing problems due to the elongated soft palate.
Their short coats dont help either, as this means they feel the cold more with not as much winter protection as a longer-haired dog would have.
In simple terms, Shih Tzus have not been bred to be outdoor dogs. Being sensitive to cold, they can become dehydrated and suffer with hypothermia in dangerously low temperatures. They are breed that you really need to take special care of in cold winter temperatures.
Signs your Shih Tzu is cold
There are some common symptoms that hint your dog is suffering in cold weather. If you see your Shih Tzu suffering with any of these, you should make them warmer and in some cases seek professional advice.
- Your dog refuses to go outside.
- Your dog starts to make a nest, for example pulling at blankets or burrowing in bed.
- Your dog has the shivers.
- Your dog appears to be lethargic.
- Your dog lifts their paws off the ground when outside.
- Your dog is barking or whining.
During very cold weather, Shih Tzus can even get frostbite and hypothermia. The latter is a deadly condition that results in blood no longer circulating round the dogs body, weakness, stiff muscles, and eventual slowed heartbeat and kidney failure.
Signs of hypothermia include:
That all sounds very serious, but providing you look after your Shih Tzu properly in the cold winter months, you should have nothing to worry about.
However, even when you do take special care, your Shih Tzu might develop some of the less serious symptoms. For example, your Shih Tzu could actually catch a cold. I have described canine cold symptoms lower down the page, so you know what to look out for.
How cold is too cold for a Shih Tzu?
There will be a point when the winter gets too cold for a Shih Tzu. The temperature that is too cold for Shih Tzus is around 4 degrees Celsius (40 degrees Fahrenheit). This can be too cold, and if combined with wet weather, or with older dogs or puppies, the danger is increased.
If your Shih Tzu is lifting their paws off the ground, then its obviously way too cold for them. At this point, its too late, so check out the infographic below which shows what temperature your Shih Tzu should be comfortable at.
Once the temperatures creep into the green and blue numbers, its too cold for your Shih Tzu, and means their health could be in danger.
Handy Hint: Here are some tips you can use tokeep your dog warm at night when sleeping insideor outside the house.
How to keep your Shih Tzu warm in cold weather
Heres what you need to do when temperatures start to drop, and how you can keep your Shih Tzu warm in cold weather. It also includes suggestions for walking in the cold, snow, and ice, and what items you should buy to help keep your Shih Tzu warm.
1. Winter health check
Older dogs are far more prone to suffering in the cold weather, as are young puppies. Low temperatures can bring on illnesses quicker and affect an existing medical condition.
When the temperatures start to drop before winter, make sure you take your Shih Tzu to the vets to get a health check. They will be able to identify anything that could get worse as it gets colder.
2. Move their bed and supply more bedding
Temperatures drop lower during the night, and this is when your Shih Tzu could be at their coldest. Think about where their bed is and whether it could be moved into a warmer position; for example, is it next to a door or near a draft?
You should also consider giving them some more bedding and blankets to keep them warmer. Your Shih Tzu will be able to make a warm nest at night and get all cosy but dont let them get too warm as this can also have a negative effect.
3. Dont overfeed your Shih Tzu in winter
Most people tend to walk their dogs less during the winter. The combination of the lower temperatures and dampness are enough to put most people off.
Of course, that means your Shih Tzu wont be getting as much exercise as before, so you might want to consider how much you feed them to avoid weight issues.
Keep your Shih Tzus weight at a sensible weight. Whilst feeding a cold does have some validity to it, with more food keeping their energy levels up, its a fine balance.
4. Make sure their drinking water isnt too cold
Keep an eye on how cold your dogs water is. Water that is too cold can make dogs ill, including exacerbating exiting cold symptoms and giving them a sore throat.
Make sure their drinking water isnt freezing over if left outside and leave their bowl near a warmer place inside of the house. If you do leave water outdoors for them, here s how to stop it freezing over in winter.
Also think about the water coming through your tap. If the pipes are near frozen, cold water will be too cold, so run tepid water instead into their bowl.
5. Dont go for walks when its too cold
Your Shih Tzu might be begging to go outside, but exercise a commonsense approach. If its too cold outside, use up some of their energy indoors.
With our dog, we play with him using a laser pen which he chases up and down the kitchen until hes puffed out. It keeps his fitness levels and weight in check, and means we dont have to go outside when its too cold for him.
6. Use potty training pads indoors
When its too cold for your Shih Tzu to even go outdoors and pee, you need a solution. Id recommend puppy pad you might have used this when potty training your Shih Tzu puppy. They work just as well with adult dogs.
You can buy a large packet of them on Amazon. Your dog is bound to remember how to use them, so should be ideal in cold winter weather.
7. Always use a collar and chip
Wintertime is one of the riskier times of year for dogs to get lost. With those dark evenings, possible snow, and their reaction to the unusual environments, dogs will often wander.
If you are taking your Shih Tzu for a walk, and its not too cold, make sure they have a collar and chip on so they can be easily identified.
8. Buy a winter jacket for your Shih Tzu
In recent years there has been an explosion of Shih Tzu accessories and clothing lines. Most are a bit gimmicky, but in cold weather, they are essential for winter walking and paw protection. Here are a couple I recommend.
This one has luxurious Sherpa lining to keep your Shih Tzu warm this winter. It even has cargo pockets in it, although not sure what your dog will want to carry? Perhaps some small treats?
This wont win any style awards, but thats not really the point. Its extremely warm and is rated very highly by Shih Tzu owners the world over. You can attach a leash or lead to it easily, its water resistant, has a simply to use zipper, and offers a snug fit.
Before you buy, make sure you measure your pup up properly. There is information and prices on the Amazon page (click the photo below).
My third recommendation is the Didog winter jacket. What I like most about it is the reflective material. This should help you see your dog on a dark winters night and also ensure cars see them before its too late.
Its just as warm as the Gooby, its all down to personal preference on what you buy. Keep your Shih Tzu warm this winter just like others have done.
9. Dont forget winter paw protection
You should be looking at your Shih Tzus paw during the winter months to check for cracks and wounds. Paws are very susceptible to cold weather and ice, and can deteriorate very quickly, becoming painful with even the possibility of frostbite!
You can buy winter boots for Shih Tzus on Amazon. Heres a quick Amazon recommendation to check out.
10. Trim nails to stop skidding and injury
If you dont think its cold enough to buy winter boots, you should still maintain your Shih Tzus paws in winter, and in particular their nails.
Longer nails and claws wont have the right traction on ice and compacted snow, and if not trimmed down could lead to slipping and injuries.
11. Avoid street salt and chemicals such as anti-freeze
During icy weather, humans tend to put salt and chemicals on the roads and pavements to stop vehicles and people slipping. Whilst this is ok for us, on doggy paws that are not protective, it can be painful the same goes for chemicals like anti-freeze which could be split.
This is a risk with Shih Tzus that are not wearing adequate have paw protection in the winter.
12. Dont let them eat snow
Your Shih Tzu is almost guaranteed to love seeing snow for the first time. Its an unusual feeling for them, so they will probably want to roll about in it.
Dogs being dogs, they will often want to eat snow too. It might seem cute, but it could make them ill if it has urine, poop, or chemical traces in it. Dont let your Shih Tzu eat snow, it could make them ill in the cold weather season.
13. Dont let them get wet
The biggest risk to your Shih Tzus health in cold weather is when the cold combines with damp. It can cause hypothermia or in less serious cases, cold symptoms.
After a walk or play in the snow, make sure you towel them down properly, even using a hair dryer if they will let you.
Check for snow stuck into their fur and paws as this will quickly turn to cold water once you get back indoors, making their bedding damp too.
14. Dont leave them in your car
Everyone knows how fatal cars can be when its hot, but its equally true in winter too. A cold car can be a killer so dont leave your beloved Shih Tzu in your car or truck.
15. How to keep a Shih Tzu warm at night
Ive already touched on a few ideas on how to keep your Shih Tzu warm in winter, some of which can be used at night too. I wanted to offer a few more tips here as well, as once night falls, the temperature will drop.
- Place their bed away from doors, drafts and out of cold rooms.
- Use a (not too) hot water bottle.
- Use a bed that is raised off the floor to avoid the cold floor.
- Perhaps let them sleep with you in your bed.
- Put more blankets than usual in their bed
- Position their bedding in doughnut shaped ring for them to get warmer in.
- Dont let them sleep too close to a radiator or heat source.
Handy Hint: Ever wondered why dogs love rolling in snow so much? I put a guide together which explains dogs love affair with snow.
Shih Tzu cold symptoms
As you will now know, Shih Tzus can get colds. If you think your Shih Tzu is ill during cold winter weather and low temperatures, it could be a slight cold.
Like humans, the first sign might be a little sniffle and sneeze here and there.
But, just like us again, the symptoms can soon develop into a more serious illness if not treated appropriately.
Shih Tzus dont cope well with cold weather and winter. As a brachycephalic breed, the cavities in their skull are smaller than other dogs, meaning mucus can block the cavity.
Once that happens, your Shih Tzu could get a more serious winter illness such as dehydration, hypothermia, or even pneumonia. With that in mind, its important to recognise the cold and flu symptoms in your Shih Tzu before it gets too serious.
Heres what you should always be on the lookout for:
- Runny nose and nasal discharge.
- Runny or watery eyes.
- Sneezing.
- Wheezing or wet-sounding cough.
- Lack of appetite.
- Shivering.
- Warm ears.
- Trouble breathing normally.
- General lethargy.
Should you worry about slight sniffles?
Almost every Shih Tzu will have a cold symptom once in their lifetime, with the winter being the prime season for it. In the main, some sniffles here and there, or wetter nose than usual isnt something to worry too much about.
When you should be concerned would be if your Shih Tzu starts to cough in winter. This will need immediate vet support, as it could lead to a chest infection in the cold weather.
You can do your own check; put your ear to your Shih Tzus chest. It should sound clear but rattling and gurgling sounds are a sign of possible cold and mucus on the chest area.
Some dog owners try to treat their Shih Tzus cold without the help of a vet. I dont recommend it, but the ones who do use a canine nebulizer. More on that in a moment.
How to treat a Shih Tzu with a cold
Heres how to treat a Shih Tzu cold. Please note though, this should not replace professional vets advice and is purely tips I have found after researching online, plus reading vet comments on trusted web forums.
1. Encourage fluid intake
Dehydration is a risk I winter cold weather, so your Shih Tzu needs to be taking on enough fluids to stave off any risk. But of course, when dogs are sick, sometimes its hard to get them to drink, so you could try adding chicken broth to the water bowl.
2. Add extra nutrition to their food
Your Shih Tzu might also have lost their appetite due to the cold and can quickly start to lose their strength. Try changing them into something like boiled chicken with brown rice for added nutrition.
3. Feed extra dietary supplements
You can also try adding some supplements into the food to help cure the cold symptoms. These can include items such as coconut oil, cinnamon, and honey. The experts say that these supplements can help Shih Tzus recover from colds as they will help to improve the immune system and can also act as a natural cough medicine.
4. Limit outdoors time and maximise rest
Limit their physical activity and dont let them outdoors into the colder temperatures. The only reason they should go outside is for toilet breaks but if you can, switch to puppy pads indoors.
5. Love and affection
Whats the one thing that made you feel better when you had a cold as a kid? It was cuddles and affection from your parents and some Shih Tzus can be the same. See if they want close up love or need their space they will all react differently.
6. Hot water bottle
If they dont want you getting close to them, you could heat up a water bottle and put it in their bed. Not too warm of course, but enough to raise their temperatures to a comfortable level.
7. Dog nebulizer
Before writing this article on Shih Tzus and cold weather, I didnt realize you could use nebulizers on dogs. However, a vet told me that some owners will manage their dogs cold themselves using one of these.
8. Steam vaporizer
Just like us, steam vaporizers can help to clear your Shih Tzus bronchial tubes and help relieve many Shih Tzu cold symptoms, making them breathe so much easier. Put it close to their bed, but not so they can knock it over.
9. Apply Shih Tzu nose balm
Shih Tzus can get cracked and dry noses in winter cold weather, or it can go the other way, with their nose starting to run. For cracked and dry skin, you should try dog nose butter or balm on Amazon. It is organic and will soothe and repair any cracks.
When you should call the vet
There are certain things to look out for which really demand a call into your vet. Your Shih Tzus cold could get worse, with the following signs:
- Your Shih Tzu has started to cough.
- Your Shih Tzu stops taking on fluids.
- Your Shih Tzu appears to be in constant pain.
- Your Shih Tzu has a rattling chest sound.
If its an older Shih Tzu or puppy, I wouldnt even wait this long. With the slightest sign of a cold, I would call a vet for advice. They are more susceptible in these ages to develop colds in winter temperatures.
Heres how one vet said they would treat a Shih Tzu with a cold:
We often have owners bring their dogs in during wintertime. Its peak time for sure. We treat Shih Tzus with colds just like we do any other dog; with a small course of antibiotics. This works by killing bacteria and helping them build up their immune system until their cold has subsided.
Conclusion
Shih Tzus in cold weather dont really work out too well. These little guys need warmth in the winter, so please be careful at this time of year when snow, ice, and colder temperatures become the norm.
As a breed, they are one of the most at risk when it comes to cold weather intolerance.
Whilst Shih Tzus can tolerate cold weather to a degree, there is a tipping point at which you should pay more attention you can see those temperature ranges in the graphic higher up in this guide.
You might also like
Ive written other guides to help you look after your Shih Tzu, heres a selection of the most recent.
Image in header via https://pixabay.com/photos/dog-sleeping-shih-tzu-pet-canine-871773/
