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The cold of winter is noticeable in many areas. When looking for parkas and seasonal outerwear in the closets and cloakrooms, we wonder whether dogs need coats even in winter. Dog couture is popular. Whether your dog is in a sweater, hoodie, or out in nature when Mother Nature bites the thermometer, we have the facts – and the fictions – about dog coats and sweaters.
Do dogs need coats or sweaters to ward off winter cold? Photography by Liliya Kulianionak / Shutterstock.
1. Fiction: All dogs must wear dog coats to protect them from the cold.
Fact: The first thing people might ask when they think, “Do dogs need coats?” is – “Do ALL dogs need coats?” Not all dogs need a coat or sweater to keep them warm when venturing outdoors, but short-haired breeds, older dogs, puppies, and dogs with medical conditions will benefit from the added warmth. Look for pet clothing that adequately covers the neck and stomach and also provides neck-to-tail protection. One of my favorite winter finds is the Ruffwear Quinzee, which I picked for the features above and the cuteness factor.
2. Fiction: All dogs can get used to wearing a coat.
Fact: Some dogs wear uncomfortable clothing and should never be forced to do so. While many dogs benefit from the extra layering in colder temperatures, let your dog wear the fur indoors for minutes. If he or she doesn’t respond – or the famous “Freeze in Place” pose – scratch the idea and move on.
3. Fiction: Larger dogs don’t need to wear winter coats or sweaters.
Fact: When thinking, “Do dogs need coats?” Some automatically exclude larger breeds. Some dogs have been bred to have thicker or denser coats, including the idiatrod-savvy Siberian Husky. However, other larger breeds might benefit from having a coat. Therefore, evaluate each individual dog. Greyhounds, for example, are more sensitive to the colder weather, so this particular breed could take advantage of the extra layering.
4. Fiction: If it looks like a sweater and acts like a sweater, it will keep my dog warm.
Fact: That’s not true. I like to get waterproof dog clothes for my Dexter, a cocker spaniel, to keep his thicker hair dry on our snowy winter outings on the sidewalk. In addition, waterproof clothing keeps him dry in the park from dew-coated bushes and grass. Similar to my own winter coat for me, a polar fleece lining offers dogs comfort and at the same time protects against colder temperatures.
5. Fiction: A dog’s fur should be snug to keep it as warm as possible.
Fact: Another question that comes with “Do dogs need coats” – “How should dogs wear coats?” Do you remember the boy from A Christmas Story whose mother bundled him up and then couldn’t move? Take your dog’s mobility into account. Just as you have to move around in a coat, so does your dog. Tight but not tight is a good rule.
Make sure there are no extra hanging zippers, snaps, or parts that can rub or irritate a dog. Dexter will wear clothing as long as it doesn’t affect his “man’s parts”. Pay attention to where Velcro straps or fasteners are on a dog’s fur. Being able to try on clothes in the store helps a lot.
6. Fiction: A dog’s cushions are resilient and protect them from the elements of nature.
Fact: Chemicals can be ingested through a dog’s delicate pads. These chemicals (like what’s found in antifreeze), in turn, can be licked by dogs and cause serious problems. I use Musher’s Secret on my dog’s feet and have given this product ($ 14.99, Chewy) as a gift to dog-loving friends and family members in the past.
Some people opt for dog shoes, which is a smart idea in the winter months. After a walk, wash the dog pillows thoroughly, perhaps with some warm water and a washcloth to melt ice balls that may have formed on the bottom of their feet.
7. Fiction: Coats and hoodies must look heavy to adequately protect dogs.
Fact: Technology has advanced in the human outerwear market, and so has our dogs. Thin is the new thick in outerwear. Check the labels and do research before making any investment. Heavier doesn’t mean better; If a coat is too warm, dogs can overheat. So be careful.
Check out these 11 styles of dog coats here >>
How to Measure Your Dog for a Coat
Another thing you might be wondering when thinking, “Do dogs need coats?” is – “How do you measure your dog for a coat?” When ordering a personalized jacket or sweater, keep in mind that many stores do not allow the return of coats. So measure your dog appropriately before buying a parka.
Here’s how: With the dog standing, run a tape measure from the base of the dog’s neck (where the collar would sit) to the base of the tail. The majority of dog clothes use this measurement. Knowing your dog’s chest measurement will also ensure a good fit.
Featured image: miodrag ignjatovic / Getty Images. This post was originally published in 2012.
