Your first winter with a small puppy in Quebec can feel intimidating. Snow up to their chest, de-icing salt on every sidewalk, minus 25 with the wind chill… Small dog winter care in Quebec is mostly about a few simple habits, and once they're in place, most Toy Poodles and Imperial Shih Tzus actually love the snow.
At Maxanimo, our puppies grow up through real Quebec winters, so here is what we tell every family that adopts between November and March.
Do small puppies really get cold?
Yes. A Toy Poodle or an Imperial Shih Tzu has a small body, short legs and loses heat quickly, especially before 6 months. Their coat is lovely, but it isn't a husky's double coat.
Watch for: shivering, lifting one paw after another, slowing down or wanting to be carried.
Rule of thumb: if it's too cold for you to stand outside without a hat and gloves, it's too cold for a long walk with your puppy.
How long can a puppy stay outside in winter?
For a young puppy, think in minutes, not hours. Several short outings are much better than one long walk.
Around 0 °C to −10 °C: 10 to 15 minutes of play or walking is usually fine.
From −10 °C to −20 °C: keep it to 5 to 10 minutes, with a coat.
Below −20 °C (or with strong wind): quick potty breaks only, then back inside to play.
Every puppy is different, so adjust to yours. If you have any doubt about their health, your veterinarian is the best person to ask.
Protect their paws from salt and ice
This is the number one winter issue we see in Montreal. Sidewalk salt and de-icers dry out and crack paw pads, and puppies lick their paws afterwards.
Before the walk: apply a thin layer of paw balm, or try dog boots. Most puppies walk funny for a day, then forget they're wearing them.
After the walk: wipe each paw with a damp, lukewarm cloth, then dry well between the toes.
Trim the fur between the pads (or ask your groomer), so snowballs don't build up.
💡 Remember: keep a towel and a small bowl of lukewarm water by the door all winter. Wiping paws becomes a 30-second routine, and your puppy learns to wait calmly at the entrance.
Coats and sweaters: necessary or not?
For Toy Poodles and Imperial Shih Tzus, a coat is not a fashion statement in January, it's real comfort. Choose one that covers the chest and belly (that's where snow touches first), is easy to put on, and doesn't rub under the front legs.
Introduce it indoors first, with treats, for a few minutes at a time. A puppy who has positive memories of their coat will happily stand still when you bring it out.
House training when it's −20 °C
Winter is when house training often slips. Puppies don't want to go out, and families don't either.
Shovel a small potty spot close to the door, so your puppy doesn't have to push through deep snow.
Go out with them and praise right away, then come back inside quickly.
Keep the routine: after naps, after meals and after play, even in a storm.
If accidents happen, don't scold. Our article on the first 7 days with your puppy explains why patience works better than punishment.
Keep them busy indoors
Shorter walks mean extra energy at home. Ten minutes of brain games tire a small puppy as much as a long walk:
hide-and-seek with kibble or treats,
a snuffle mat or a stuffed toy,
short training sessions: sit, down, come, paw,
a calm chew after play, so they learn to settle.
Winter dangers to keep in mind
Antifreeze: it tastes sweet and is toxic. Clean up any drips in the garage.
Ice and frozen water: never let a puppy walk on a frozen pond or pool cover.
Wet fur: dry your puppy well after a walk or a bath, especially Shih Tzus with long coats.
Heaters and fireplaces: use a barrier, curious puppies get too close.
Frequently asked questions
Can I adopt a puppy in winter?
Absolutely. Winter is actually a calm time to bond at home. You just need to plan short outings and a warm, cozy spot. Our tips on adopting during the holidays are a good place to start.
Does my puppy need boots?
Not always, but on salted sidewalks they help a lot. If your puppy refuses them, paw balm and a good wipe after each walk work well too.
Can I bathe my puppy in winter?
Yes, with lukewarm water, and dry them completely with a towel and a low-heat dryer before going outside. Never go out with a damp coat.
Ready for your first winter together?
With a coat, clean paws and a good routine, a Quebec winter is not a problem for a small dog, it's often their favourite season. If you're thinking about welcoming a Toy Poodle or an Imperial Shih Tzu, see our available puppies or contact us. At Maxanimo, we're happy to help you prepare, whatever the weather.
