A veterinarian (right) pointing at a dog in the snow (left)
Leave it to a veterinarian with a sharp sense of humor to remind us all that dog stereotypes exist for a reason. Dr. Molly Brinkmann decided to commemorate the incoming winter weather by acting out different dog breeds' reactions to snow. Let’s just say the results were accurate. Almost too accurate.
A few examples: there’s the food-obsessed Beagle, who warns, “I will eat your leg if it comes down to it” if the snack supply runs dry. Also the Lab who has been “training their whole life for this” and has already been out in the snow “three times.” And of course, the grumpy Chihuahua who sees snow as their own “personal Hell.”
One particular dog really stole the spotlight, though. Bella, the 18-year-old Chiweenie with the weary outlook of someone who has seen it all, quickly became the fan favorite. One viewer spoke for many when they said, "I need a whole series with Bella, the aged Chiweenie." Another seconded, "I’m invested, and I need to know more about the street dog.”
Dr. Brinkmann, who often does fun animal parody videos, usually features one other character, a sassy feline named Spicy Cat, at the end of her videos. While Spicy Cat didn’t make her usual appearance at the end of this video, Brinkman informed us all that "Spicy Cat went to the beach." Which seems very appropos.
The comment section turned into a roll call of proud pet owners who felt Brinkman nailed their fur babies’ personalities.
"As a Lab owner, I can confirm that free ice is the best thing ever!"
“The Pittie is SPOT ON. It’s all about the cuddling.”
“My chihuahua said ‘nope’ and waited 4 days to check in. That was also a nope.”
Viewers also started pitching ideas for future installments featuring breeds not mentioned. One person imagined a reluctant Dachshund wrote, "Dachshund POV... Nope, I’m peeing in the house." Another wrote, “The Pyrenees also living for this moment.”
Lastly, it's worth noting that more than a few folks said they related to the Beagle most of all.
It certainly makes biological sense that each breed has their own attitude towards snowy climates. Certain breeds, like Newfoundlands, Pyrenees, Huskies, etc., are quite literally built for frigid temperatures. Other dogs with shorter coats like Greyhounds, Whippets, Chihuahuas, French Bulldogs, and Chinese Cresteds, can’t stay out in the cold for extended periods of time—and even when they do go out, they require jackets and booties to stay warm.
A distinguished chihuahua in a teal sweaterPhoto credit: Canva
Keeping dogs safe in winter
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Regardless of breed, the ASPCA says that all dogs should receive the following winter care:
-Getting immediately towel-dried once they come inside
-Massaging petroleum jelly vet-approved paw protectants into paw pads before going outside to protect from salt and chemical agents (or booties)
-Offering a little more food during winter, since pets burn extra energy by trying to stay warm in the cold
-Washing off any potential ice, salt, or chemicals from your dog’s feet and stomach
-Bathing as little as possible during cold spells to avoid dry skin
And, of course, whether your dog treats winter like a personal playground or a seasonal betrayal, they are incredibly lovable either way—not that you need a vet to tell you that.