Do Shih Tzus Get Cold Easily? How Cold Is Too Cold?
Many Shih Tzu owners are curious about whether or not their dog will be comfortable in cold weather. In this blog post, we will explore the truth about Shih Tzus and winter weather. We will discuss whether or not these dogs are susceptible to the cold, and provide tips on how to keep your Shih Tzu warm during the winter months.
Do Shih Tzus Get Cold Easily?

Do Shih Tzus get cold easily? Shih Tzus can get cold if they are out in the cold for an extended period of time. The Shih Tzu has a double coat, which is composed of a dense, soft undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. This type of coat provides good insulation against cold weather. However, if the dog is going to be outside in very cold weather for an extended period of time, it is important to provide him with a warm shelter and/or Dog Coat to protect him from the elements.
Generally speaking, most Shih Tzus are comfortable in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Some may even enjoy playing in the snow! If your dog seems cold or uncomfortable, though, it’s best to bring him inside.
If you live in an area with cold winters, it’s important to take extra care of your Shih Tzu during this time. Here are some tips for keeping your Shih Tzu warm during the winter:
- Dress them in a warm sweater or coat when they go outside.
- Avoid taking them out for long walks in cold weather.
- Make sure their bedding is warm and cozy.
- Consider getting them a dog bed with heating elements.
- Give them extra cuddles! They’ll love it and it will help keep them warm.
While the Shih Tzu’s coat does provide some protection against the cold, it is important to take precautions if your dog will be spending extended periods of time outdoors in cold weather. Make sure he has a warm shelter to go to and consider investing in a Dog Coat to keep him extra cozy.
Do Shih Tzus Need a Jacket?

Do Shih Tzus need a jacket? If the temperature outside gets below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then yes, a Shih Tzu will need a jacket to stay warm. Even though they are a hearty breed and can withstand cold weather quite well, there is still a limitation to their ability to handle the cold. Their coat is very dense but can only protect them to a certain point.
If you live in an area with extremely cold winters, you may want to consider getting your Shih Tzu a sweater or coat to wear inside during the day. This will help them stay warm and comfortable when they are indoors.
Picking the right clothing for your Shih Tzu in colder weather is also important. A sweater or coat can help keep your dog warm, but make sure it isn’t too tight or constricting. It’s also a good idea to invest in some booties to protect your dog’s feet from the cold and salt.
When choosing a jacket for your Shih Tzu, there are some things you need to take into consideration:
- Choose a jacket that is comfortable and does not restrict movement.
- Look for a jacket with a snug fit around the neck and chest, to help keep body heat in.
- Avoid jackets with hoods, as these can be uncomfortable for dogs who are not used to them.
- Consider getting a waterproof jacket to help protect against rain, snow, and ice.
Here are some high-quality Shih Tzu jackets on amazon.com.
Are Shih Tzus OK in The Snow?

Are Shih Tzus OK in the snow? Yes, Shih Tzus can play in the snow! They may not be able to stay out in it for too long, but they will have a blast running around and playing while they’re out. Just make sure to keep an eye on them and bring them inside when they start to get cold.
A very important thing that you need to consider is this: Has your Shih Tzu played in the snow before or this is their first time? There is a huge difference. If this is your Shih Tzu’s first winter snow, here is how to best prepare them for the snow:
First, introduce your Shih Tzu to the snow gradually. Take them out for short periods of time, and let them get used to the cold temperature and the feel of the snow on their paws.
Secondly, make sure you have the proper gear for both you and your Shih Tzu. This includes things like a good pair of boots or shoes for yourself, and Dog boots or paw protection for your pup.
Thirdly, start off slow when playing in the snow. Shih Tzus can get excited and run around too much, which can lead to them getting too cold or tired.
Playing in the snow is a great way to bond with your Shih Tzu and create lasting memories.
It’s also important to make sure your Shih Tzu has access to plenty of water when they’re playing in the snow. They can get dehydrated just like humans, so it’s important to keep an eye on their water intake and make sure they’re staying hydrated.
If your dog starts shivering or seems to be getting uncomfortable, bring them inside and warm them up with a blanket or some towels.
How Do You Know When a Shih Tzu is Cold?
When the weather gets colder, you might start to notice that your Shih Tzu is acting a bit differently. Maybe they’re snuggling up to you more often or they seem a little slower than usual. These are all common signs that your Shih Tzu is cold and in need of some extra warmth.
One way to tell if a Shih Tzu is cold is by its body language. If a Shih Tzu is hunched over, has their tail tucked between their legs, or is shivering, they are likely cold.
Another way to tell if a Shih Tzu is cold is by feeling its body temperature. Shih Tzus have a normal body temperature of 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit. If you feel your dog’s body and it is significantly cooler than this, they are probably cold.
Lastly, another way to tell if a Shih Tzu is cold is by paying attention to their behavior. If a Shih Tzu seems lethargic or uninterested in playing, they may be feeling the effects of the cold weather.