Why Dachshunds Need Extra Protection in Winter

Written by Leo 🐾 – professional jacket tester & Christmas snack enthusiast

Let’s get one thing straight:
I’m not a fan of winter. It's cold, it's wet, and it sticks to my belly.

Honestly? The only good thing about winter is Christmas.
(And maybe snow zoomies… maybe.)

But as cute as I look in the snow, my little legs and long belly weren’t made for it — and neither were yours, fellow ween.

Here’s why we need a little extra help when the temperature drops:

1. We’ve Got Low Bellies

Let’s just say… my belly is closer to the ground than your slippers.
That means when I walk through wet grass, snow, or slushy sidewalks, my tummy gets cold fast. I don’t just feel the cold — I wear it.

2. Our Fur Is No Match for Winter

Sure, I’ve got fur — but not enough to take on icy winds.
Weens weren’t exactly built for mountain hikes or Arctic strolls. Without a good coat, we can get cold quickly, and that’s not just uncomfortable… it can be risky too.

3. We’re Long & Low – Not Made for “One-Size-Fits-All”

Most jackets? Either too short in the back or too tight in the chest.
So not only do I freeze — I also can’t move. (Try zoomies in a stiff coat. It’s a no from me.)

That’s why it’s so important to find jackets made for dachshunds — ones that protect our full length and let us be dogs, not little burritos.

4. Cold Can Be Dangerous for Us

A lot of hoomans don’t realize this, but small breeds like us are more sensitive to cold. Without protection, we risk things like:

• Hypothermia (scary stuff)
• Joint stiffness (especially us older weens)
• Catching colds (yes, it happens to pups too)

And let’s not even talk about how a soggy coat feels after a walk in freezing rain. Ew.

So What Can You Do?

If you're a fellow ween or love one, here’s how to keep us safe and cozy:

• Keep walks short in harsh weather
• Dry us off when we come inside
• Give us soft blankets (and yes, we will burrow)
• Invest in a proper winter jacket made for dachshunds (wink wink 😉)

We’re currently working on something just right — cozy, comfy, and designed by weens (okay, by me) for weens. Stay tuned 🐶