Why Cockapoos Dislike Walks in a Canadian Snowstorm
- Administrator
- Feb 17
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 8
Cockapoos are known for their affectionate nature, playful personalities, and adorable curly coats. However, when it comes to winter weather, especially blizzards, they’re not exactly the biggest fans. As roads closed and today’s Canadian snowstorm settled in across southern Ontario, Marley a mini Cockapoo settled deeper into the couch. She wasn’t interested in being outside while the snow piled up. While some dogs thrive in the snow, Cockapoos often find blizzard conditions overwhelming, and one of the biggest reasons is their coat.
1. Snow Sticks to Their Hair
Unlike double-coated breeds like Siberian Huskies, Cockapoos have soft, wavy, or curly hair that easily traps snow and ice. During a snowy walk, their legs, belly, and even ears can become covered in clumps of snow, making it uncomfortable to move. These snowballs not only weigh them down but can also cause their fur to mat if not properly dried and brushed out afterward.
2. Small Size, Big Struggles
Why cockapoos dislike an extended walk in a snowstorm! Cockapoos, especially the smaller ones, have a tough time navigating deep snow. Their shorter legs mean they sink into fresh powder, making each step an effort. In a blizzard, where the wind blows snow into their face and visibility is low, Cockapoos may resist walking altogether, preferring to stay in the warmth of home.
3. They Hate the Cold (Especially Their Paws!)
Cockapoos aren’t built for extreme cold. Without an insulating undercoat, they lose body heat quickly, and their paws are especially sensitive to icy sidewalks and snow-covered paths. Many Cockapoos will try to lift their paws mid-walk, refusing to take another step until they’re warmed up. Dog boots can help, but not all Cockapoos are willing to wear them!
4. Wind and Snow Are Overwhelming
A blizzard means more than just snowfall, it comes with strong winds that blow snow into a Cockapoo’s face, making it hard for them to see or even breathe comfortably. The combination of swirling snow and freezing temperatures makes the experience unpleasant, causing many Cockapoos to turn back toward home before the walk even begins.
5. They Prefer Cozy Comfort Over Cold Adventures
While some dogs get excited at the sight of snow, Cockapoos often prefer the warmth of a cozy blanket or a heated dog bed. They love being close to their owners, but they’d rather snuggle up indoors than battle a winter storm. Instead of a long, freezing walk, a quick potty break followed by indoor playtime is usually their preferred routine during blizzards.
How to Help Your Cockapoo in the Snow
If you have to take your Cockapoo out during a snowstorm, here are some ways to make it more comfortable:
Dress them for the weather: A warm, waterproof coat can help keep them dry and reduce snow accumulation on their fur.
Protect their paws: Dog boots or paw balm can help shield them from ice, salt, and the cold ground.
Keep walks short: In extreme conditions, limit outdoor time to quick potty breaks.
Brush out snowballs after walks: Using a towel or a warm (not hot) hairdryer on a low setting can help remove ice clumps from their fur.
Final Thoughts
While Cockapoos love spending time with their humans, they’re not built for blizzards. Between their snow-attracting fur, small stature, and dislike of extreme cold, most Cockapoos would much rather stay inside where it’s warm. So if your Cockapoo gives you a pleading look at the door during a snowstorm, don’t be surprised, they’re just trying to tell you that winter walks.
Why Cockapoos Dislike Walks in a Blizzard
Cockapoos are known for their affectionate nature, playful personalities, and adorable curly coats. However, when it comes to winter weather, especially blizzards, they’re not exactly the biggest fans. While some dogs thrive in the snow, Cockapoos often find blizzard conditions overwhelming, and one of the biggest reasons is their coat.
1. Snow Sticks to Their Hair
Unlike double-coated breeds like Siberian Huskies, Cockapoos have soft, wavy, or curly hair that easily traps snow and ice. During a snowy walk, their legs, belly, and even ears can become covered in clumps of snow, making it uncomfortable to move. These snowballs not only weigh them down but can also cause their fur to mat if not properly dried and brushed out afterward.
2. Small Size, Big Struggles
Cockapoos, especially the smaller ones, have a tough time navigating deep snow. Their shorter legs mean they sink into fresh powder, making each step an effort. In a blizzard, where the wind blows snow into their face and visibility is low, Cockapoos may resist walking altogether, preferring to stay in the warmth of home.
3. They Hate the Cold (Especially Their Paws!)
Cockapoos aren’t built for extreme cold. Without an insulating undercoat, they lose body heat quickly, and their paws are especially sensitive to icy sidewalks and snow-covered paths. Many Cockapoos will try to lift their paws mid-walk, refusing to take another step until they’re warmed up. Dog boots can help, but not all Cockapoos are willing to wear them!
4. Wind and Snow Are Overwhelming
A blizzard means more than just snowfall, it comes with strong winds that blow snow into a Cockapoo’s face, making it hard for them to see or even breathe comfortably. The combination of swirling snow and freezing temperatures makes the experience unpleasant, causing many Cockapoos to turn back toward home before the walk even begins.
5. They Prefer Cozy Comfort Over Cold Adventures
While some dogs get excited at the sight of snow, Cockapoos often prefer the warmth of a cozy blanket or a heated dog bed. They love being close to their owners, but they’d rather snuggle up indoors than battle a winter storm. Instead of a long, freezing walk, a quick potty break followed by indoor playtime is usually their preferred routine during blizzards.
How to Help Your Cockapoo in the Snow
If you have to take your Cockapoo out during a snowstorm, here are some ways to make it more comfortable:
- Dress them for the weather: A warm, waterproof coat can help keep them dry and reduce snow accumulation on their fur.
- Protect their paws: Dog boots or paw balm can help shield them from ice, salt, and the cold ground.
- Keep walks short: In extreme conditions, limit outdoor time to quick potty breaks.
- Brush out snowballs after walks: Using a towel or a warm (not hot) hairdryer on a low setting can help remove ice clumps from their fur.
Final Thoughts
While Cockapoos love spending time with their people, they’re not built for blizzards. Between their snow-attracting fur, small stature, and dislike of extreme cold, most Cockapoos would much rather stay inside where it,s warm. So if your Cockapoo gives you a pleading look at the door during a snowstorm, don’t be surprised, they’re just trying to tell you that winter walks aren’t their thing!
