I’m a dog expert: these are the breeds that get the coldest in winter

We’re now firmly in winter, and although temperatures are plummeting across Britain, it appears it’s not just people struggling with the cold, but dogs too.

Anyone who has a dog knows that regular walks are necessary for its health, but this becomes difficult, especially in the colder months.

However, British dog expert Lorna Winter, co-founder of puppy training app Zipzag, said certain breeds prefer the cold, while others struggle.

Breeds like Newfoundlands and Bernese Mountain Dogs love the cold and sometimes even refuse to return to their owners because of their thick double coat that keeps them warm and dry.

Lorna told Subway: ‘If you need a hat and scarf to stand outside, chances are your pup will be cold too.’

She added: ‘Breeds that tolerate the cold better (often because they have a thicker coat, a double coat or a heavier frame) include Newfoundlands, Siberian Huskies, Tibetan Mastiffs and Norwegian Elkhounds.’

The dog expert explained that small dogs and dogs with shorter hair will feel the cold more, but if they exercise a lot this effect is reduced.

She named breeds like chihuahuas, whippets and French bulldogs as those that will have to fight the hardest to beat the cold.

Puppies also made it, because they are so short that they are physically closer to cold sidewalks than a larger dog.

She advised owners of these breeds to wrap their canines in a coat or even a cute little onesie, to help them cope with their thin coat.

Dog boots were also a good option, according to Lorna, because they prevent your pup’s feet from hitting the icy ground.

But when temperatures drop and it’s below -5 degrees Celsius, it’s a good idea not to take your dog for a walk until the weather warms up.

Signs that your dog is not feeling well include these shaking, shivering, or trying to lean against you for warmth.

Three Siberian Husky dogs with black and white fur look around in a white snowy environment (stock image)

This comes after a study found that people care more about their dogs than their cats.

At the risk of upsetting those who prefer cats, experts have revealed that people’s level of attachment is higher when it comes to their dogs – and they are willing to pay higher vet bills for them.

Researchers surveyed 2,117 people who owned dogs, cats or both and participants were asked to answer questions about the care of their pets and their attachment to them.

Analysis found that in all countries and across all measurements, people seemed to care more about their dogs than their cats.

They had higher bonding scores for their dogs, were more likely to insure their dogs, generally expected more treatment options to be available for dogs, and paid more for that treatment.