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The 7 Dog Breeds Who Hate The Rain The Most

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| September 24, 2024

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While some dogs enjoy splashing in puddles, others prefer staying warm and dry indoors, avoiding wet weather at all costs. Certain breeds are especially sensitive to rain due to their coat type, size, or temperament. A rainy day can be a real ordeal for these dogs, turning outdoor potty breaks or walks into a challenge. Whether the feel of water on their fur or the dampness under their paws, these breeds dislike wet conditions and often resist going outside when the skies open up.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas are among the smallest dog breeds, and their dislike for the rain is often attributed to their size and fine coat. Chihuahuas can get cold easily without much fur to protect them from the elements; rain worsens that discomfort. They are also closer to the ground, so their tiny bodies are more exposed to wet grass and puddles. For a Chihuahua, venturing out in the rain can feel like a much bigger task than it does for larger dogs, and they’re likely to resist going outside in wet weather. Chihuahuas often prefer to stay indoors, snuggled up in a warm spot, rather than face the discomfort of rain.

Yorkshire Terrier

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Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, may have luxurious coats, but they don’t have the thick, water-repellent fur needed to handle rainy weather. Their fine, silky hair can become easily soaked, and this small breed is not fond of the sensation of wet fur clinging to their skin. Yorkies are also known for their love of comfort, and getting wet is not on their list of enjoyable activities. When it rains, Yorkies are likely to dart back indoors at the first drop or avoid the outdoors altogether. They prefer staying warm and dry inside, making them one of the top breeds that dislike rainy days.

Pomeranian

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Pomeranians are fluffy little dogs with thick coats, but despite their fluff, they are not fans of the rain. Their double coat can absorb water quickly, making them uncomfortable and cold when wet. Pomeranians are also very small, meaning that even light rain or damp ground can feel overwhelming. They tend to be picky about their surroundings and do not enjoy the sensation of wet paws or water clinging to their fur. When faced with rainy weather, Pomeranians will often try to avoid going outside, preferring the warmth and dryness of the indoors.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus are another small breed that is not fond of the rain. Their long, flowing coats can become waterlogged easily, making them feel heavy and uncomfortable. While their fur is beautiful when dry, it doesn’t fare well in wet conditions. Shih Tzus are also known for their preference for comfort and luxury, and rainy weather does not fit their ideal day. Shih Tzus will often resist going outside in wet conditions, whether it’s because of wet paws, damp fur, or the chill that comes with rain. They prefer to stay inside, lounging in a dry, cozy spot.

Basset Hound

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Basset Hounds are known for their droopy ears and long, low bodies, but these characteristics don’t serve them well in rainy weather. Because of their short legs, Basset Hounds are closer to the ground, making their bellies more likely to get wet and muddy in the rain. Their long ears can also drag on the wet ground, adding discomfort. Basset Hounds are typically laid-back dogs and don’t appreciate the added hassle of wet weather. Rain often means soggy paws, wet ears, and mud—all things Basset Hounds would rather avoid. They are much more content relaxing indoors when the rain starts falling.

Italian Greyhound

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Italian Greyhounds are slender, fine-boned dogs with thin coats, making them especially sensitive to cold and wet weather. With little body fat and a short coat, Italian Greyhounds can feel the chill of the rain very quickly, and they are not fans of getting wet. Their delicate frames and love of warmth make rainy days challenging. Italian Greyhounds are known for seeking out the warmest spots in the house, and when faced with rain, they will often do everything they can to avoid going outside. For these graceful dogs, a rainy day is best spent indoors in a cozy bed.

Maltese

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Maltese dogs, with their long, silky white coats, are not well-suited for rainy weather. Their fur can become easily matted and dirty when wet, and they are known for being particular about their cleanliness. Maltese faced with rain often resist going outside, as they dislike water on their fur and paws. Despite their elegant appearance, they can be quite fussy when it comes to being wet or dirty. Rainy days are not their favorite, and they would much rather stay indoors where they can keep their coats dry and pristine.

Rainy Days Are Not for Every Dog

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For these breeds, rainy days are all about discomfort, and they’ll do everything possible to avoid getting wet. Whether it’s due to their small size, delicate coats, or natural dislike for water, these dogs aren’t fans of the rain. While some dogs enjoy splashing through puddles, these breeds prefer staying indoors, warm and dry. Their aversion to wet weather is another endearing quirk of their personalities, making them even more lovable—even if it takes creative tactics to get them outside during a downpour.