Can Bull Terriers Handle Cold Weather? The Cold Hard Facts


Bull Terriers are amazing dogs to behold. The muscular stance and their confident stride of a Bull Terrier is a true display of their boisterous, loving and often mischievous personality. The Bull Terrier seems like they could handle just about anything, but what about cold weather?

Can Bull Terriers handle cold weather? As a whole Bull Terriers are not well equipped to handle cold weather for long periods of time. Bull Terriers can get cold quite easily because of their short coat and lean build. The Bull Terrier physique does not offer much protection from cold weather.

Living in colder climates can be a challenge as a Bull Terrier owner. I own two Bully breeds of my own that tolerate cold weather much the same as Bull Terriers. Knowing what is too cold for a Bull Terrier and how to protect them from colder weather is important. In this post I will cover the cold hard facts about Bull Terriers.

Do Bull Terriers Get Cold Easily? 

Bull Terriers as a general rule can get cold easily. Unlike some other breeds, Bull Terriers do not have double coats to protect them from cold weather. When temperatures hit around 45° F/7°C a Bull Terrier will begin to feel uncomfortable. At 32° F/0°C a Bull Terrier will need added protections.

Once temperatures drop below the freezing level it is important to limit the time your Bull Terrier spends outside. Hypothermia and frostbite can become a real problem real quick if your Bull Terrier is exposed to cold for prolonged periods of time.

A general rule I use with my Bully breed dogs is if it’s too cold for me to be outside without a jacket, it’s too cold for them. 

Do Bull Terriers Like Snow?

Bull Terriers love to play and as a whole snow can be great fun. Like many dogs, Bull Terriers like the snow. It is soft, full of different smells, and interesting to eat. The fun loving Bull Terrier can frolic around in snow as long as their feet and bodies stay relatively warm.

Caution should be taken when allowing your Bull Terrier to play, walk, or generally enjoy the snow. Snow can get hard and sharp at times and hurt their feet and belly. There can also be unseen objects buried below that could hurt them. Know your surroundings before letting your Bull Terrier let loose in the snow.

Keeping Your Bull Terrier Warm In The Cold Weather

Living in a climate that gets cold for certain periods of the year doesn’t mean your Bull Terrier has to become a recluse. There are plenty of ways for your Bull Terrier to get out and enjoy the outdoors and still stay safe, and relatively warm.

Keeping your Bull Terrier warm in the winter is really as simple as keeping yourself warm. Prepare for the weather conditions. Dress accordingly. And pay attention to how long you are exposed to the cold weather.

Do Bull Terriers Need Coats And Sweaters?

Protecting your Bull Terrier from cold weather with a coat or sweater is a good idea. As a whole Bull Terriers will not tolerate cold weather for long and will need a coat or sweater if you plan to go outside longer than a couple minutes. This layer of protection is crucial for any Bull Terrier.

Getting your Bull Terrier a good pair of dog booties is a great idea if they tolerate wearing them. Some dogs can’t stand wearing boots, others just need a little time to adjust. These boots will protect your Bull Terrier’s feet from the frozen ground and prevent injuries, and frostbite.

These are some of my top recommendations for Coats, Sweaters, and Boots for your Bull Terrier to keep them safe, warm, dry, and looking pretty amazing too.

Canada Pooch True North Insulated Dog Parka

Crafted with a soft fleece lining and faux-down insulation for ultimate warmth in all kinds of weather. The durable water-resistant shell will help keep your doggie dude dry while the dual hook and loop closure keeps this puppy parka in place. Complete with a slit for a leash attachment, you’ll have no problem getting your buddy all bundled up. Available on Amazon

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Pet Life Fashion Parka Dog Coat

Lined with 3M Thinsulate Thermal Heat Retention Technology, this jacket is perfect for those chilly days to make your pooch warm and comfortable. The inner fleece protects him from getting cold, and the removable faux fur hood can be zipped on and off to give him a new look every time he leaves home. Available on Amazon

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Kurgo Loft Jacket

reversible dog vest is perfect to keep your dog cozy during the chilly fall months, and cold winter months when out on walks, hikes, and runs; dog jacket has reflective piping to easily spot your dog when it gets dark early; adjustable hook and loop closure for a custom fit. Available on Amazon

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Chilly Dog Boyfriend Dog Sweater

Chilly Dog keeps up with the latest trends to keep dogs fashionable as well as warm. Their sizing can fit a tea cup dog to a great dane.  These are the warmest and best quality sweaters you will find out there! Don’t let your dog be left out in the cold! Available on Amazon

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Canada Pooch | Northern Knit 2.0

High quality, fashionable-yet-functional outerwear to keep your dog comfortable & dry. This sleek and stylish fleece-lined knitted dog sweater features a zippered neck closure.  Equipped with functional zip-up pockets for treat & bag storage, a leash/harness slit, adjustable button closures, plus ribbing on the neck & sleeves for a snug fit. Available on Amazon

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Kool Tail Plaid Dog Hoodie

Keep warm in cold weather, thicker than most of the hoodies. 65% polyester, 35% cotton, soft and comfortable, machine washable. Back has a hole, leash can through it, convenient for going out to walking. Available on Amazon

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Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots

Protect your parading pooch’s sensitive paws with Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots. Made from water-resistant nylon, this patented design is the perfect all-purpose boot to keep your furry friend’s feet safe in wet or dry, hot or cold conditions. Available on Chewy.com

QUMY Dog Boots

The dog boots have a rugged sole and high quality fabrics that are then sewn together to ensure they are ready for your adventure. Dog boots have cute pet paw embroidery, paws side is the outside, soft and hand washable. Available on Amazon

Blankets & Beds

Cold weather can leave your home a little on the cold side as well. Keeping your Bull Terrier comfortable and warm while indoors is just as important as when they are outdoors. Things like blankets and cozy beds are perfect for keeping your dog warm.

Dog beds that are elevated up from the floor and are made of soft, cozy materials are ideal. A blanket is also a Bull Terrier’s best friend when they are feeling a little chilly. Provide your Bull Terrier with their own dedicated blanket to provide them extra warmth and that feeling of security.

Resources & Reviews The Best Dog Beds & Dog Blankets

Keep Your Bull Terrier As An Inside Dog

Bull Terriers are loving, loyal family companions. They should be kept inside as members of the family. Not only is this the preference of any Bull Terrier, but it is the safest and most comfortable option. Bull Terriers are not equipped to handle cold or hot weather. Keeping a Bull Terrier as an outside dog can be dangerous for this reason.

It is fine to allow your Bull Terrier some time in the yard by themselves of course, but the majority of the day should be spent inside with the family. Bull Terriers bond strongly with their families and keeping them outside can lead to negative behaviors such as excessive barking, digging, chewing, and aggressive protective behaviors of the yard. Keep you Bull Terrier as a family member and they will thank you for it.

Final Thoughts

Bull Terriers have very little protection from cold weather. It is important that we are preparing them for cooler temperatures and keeping their health and safety top of mind. Keeping a coat or sweater handy on the cooler days, and avoiding prolonged exposure can make all the difference.

Frostbite and hypothermia can happen very quickly and are a very serious problem. When temperatures are extremely cold keep your Bull Terrier indoors as much as possible. Limit outside time to very short potty breaks. Find some indoor activities to keep your Bull Terrier physically active and mentally stimulated.

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