Although Shih Tzus have relatively long fur, they are not very tolerant of cold weather. When temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F), Shih Tzus will start to feel cold. Therefore, it's crucial for owners to provide adequate warmth and protection for them during the winter months.
Despite their long coats, Shih Tzus have poor cold resistance. They generally start feeling cold when temperatures fall below 10 degrees Celsius. Shih Tzus are also prone to a weaker immune system, making them susceptible to colds and complications like fever.
During the winter, you should take several precautions to keep them warm. First, ensure the dog's shelter is warm; if temperatures are too low, use a heater or turn on the air conditioning. Secondly, place thick blankets and a warm dog bed in their sleeping area to provide extra comfort and warmth.
When taking your Shih Tzu outdoors, dress them in appropriately sized clothing that is not too tight to avoid any discomfort. It’s also a good idea to protect their paws from the cold by using dog boots to prevent frostbite.
How to Tell if Your Dog is Cold
1. Curled Up Posture
A dog's fur is its natural coat, but despite having thick fur, dogs can still feel cold. If your dog curls up in a corner or under the bed and doesn’t want to move, it’s very likely that they are feeling cold. Your dog will instinctively protect its belly and head, potentially tucking their head into their tail, and resist being called. These are all signs that your dog is trying to warm themselves.
2. Increased Quietness
When a dog feels cold, they won't bark or whine loudly; instead, they'll become quiet as a natural response. They will try to conserve energy to maintain body temperature, becoming less active and just wanting to rest. It is best that owners quickly recognize these signs.
3. Shivering
Shivering is a direct sign that a dog is cold. For example, if a dog runs outside on a cold winter morning, it may shiver immediately. However, shivering isn't solely a sign of being cold; it could indicate other health problems, so further observation is needed.