Does My Dog Need a Coat or Sweater?

Our dogs look adorable in coats and sweaters, but do they really need it? With winter arriving, we dig our own sweaters and outwear out of the closet. Continue reading to find out if your pet should be bundled up.

One thing to keep in mind is that not all dogs are comfortable wearing apparel. Introduce your dog to the feeling by letting him wear it around the house for a few minutes at a time. If your dog freezes in place, apparel may not be for him.

Every dog is different when it comes to keeping them warm, large or small. Shorter-haired breeds, seniors, puppies, and dogs with medical conditions benefit from some additional warmth. Greyhounds, for instance, are more sensitive to the cold due to their short coat. Some breeds are bred with a thicker, more dense coat, such as Siberian Huskies. Each individual dog should be assessed for extra layering.

Pet apparel should cover the neck and belly with neck to tail protection. Many prefer waterproof dog clothes so thicker hair can stay dry on wet walks, whether in the snow or rain or on a dewy morning. A polar fleece lining gives comfort while still protecting against the harsh cold temperatures. Just like humans, a jacket does not have to be a puffy marshmallow to be warm. If a coat is too warm, your dog can overheat. Be aware of your dog’s mobility when fitting your dog as well. Apparel should be snug but not tight. Hanging zippers, snaps, or straps should not interfere, rub, or irritate your dog in any way. Check labels and do research before investing.

Once you find a jacket that meets your requirements, it’s best to take some measurements to assure you get the proper size. With your dog standing, measure the length from the base of your dog’s neck, where the collar lays, to the base of his tail. Also measure around the fullest part of your dog’s chest, as this is a common measurement many manufacturers use as well.