Winter is coming. And if you own a French Bulldog, that means one thing: The Drama is coming.
Frenchies are not built for the cold. They are built for 72-degree living rooms and heated blankets. When the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C), your tough little bulldog will likely transform into a shivering, stubborn statue that refuses to go outside to pee.
Why Are They So Terrible in the Cold?
It’s not just them being difficult (although they are that, too). It’s biology.
- Single Coat: unlike a Siberian Husky or a Golden Retriever, Frenchies have a single layer of short fur. They have zero insulation. Going out naked in the winter for them is like you going out in just a t-shirt.
- Low to the Ground: Their belly is about 4 inches off the pavement. If there is snow, their vital organs are dragging directly through the ice. This sucks the heat out of them instantly.
- The Brachy Issue: Breathing cold, dry air is hard on their airways. It can cause spasms and irritation (reverse sneezing galore).
The Gear Essentials (The 'Puffer' Protocol)
You cannot win the winter battle without armor. If you want your dog to do their business outside, you need to make them comfortable.
1. The Jacket
This is non-negotiable. You need a waterproof jacket or a puffer coat. We use the Tater-Toast Insulated Jacket because it covers the belly (the most vulnerable spot) and has a high collar to protect the neck. If they are shivering, they won't poop. Warm dog = Successful potty break.
2. The Boots (Yes, really)
I know, dogs walking in shoes is hilarious. But salt is dangerous. The rock salt used on sidewalks can burn their paw pads chemically. Plus, ice balls can form between their toes.
Our Zoomie Grippers (shoes) protect them from the salt and the cold. It takes practice (start inside with lots of treats), but once they realize "Shoes = Outside is not painful," they will tolerate them.
Paw Care: The Salt Burn
If your Frenchie absolutely refuses to wear shoes (some do go full dead-weight protest), you must protect the paws chemically.
Use a nose balm or wax barrier like Snoot Saver before the walk. It creates a shield against the salt. After the walk, dip their feet in warm water or use a grooming wipe to remove every trace of salt. If they lick the salt, it can make them very sick.
Indoor Enrichment: The "Cabin Fever" Cure
When it is -10°F and simply too dangerous to walk, you need to burn that energy inside. A bored Frenchie is a destructive Frenchie.
- Snuffle Mats: Hide treats in a rug. It activates their nose and tires their brain.
- Flirt Pole: Basically a giant cat toy for dogs. You can exercise them in a 5x5 foot space.
- Training: Teach them a new trick. 15 minutes of mental work is equal to a 45-minute walk.
Winter is tough, but with the right gear and lots of cuddles, you will survive. Just remember: If you are cold, they are freezing. Bundle up that potato!
Stay weird,
- Sophie 🐾
0 comments