Winter's chill has arrived in many places, and while we reach for parkas and other seasonal gear at the back of our wardrobes, we wonder if dogs, too, require clothes in the winter. Canine couture is trendy, so whether your dog roams around in a sweater, sweatshirt, or goes au naturel when Mother Nature bites at the thermostat, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to protecting your dog from the cold.
How Do You Know if Your Dog Needs a Jacket?
When temperatures dip below 7 degrees, certain cold-sensitive breeds may require shelter and become uncomfortable. When the air outdoors feels at or below 0 degrees Celsius, owners of puppies, elderly, thin-haired breeds, or extremely small breeds should probably put a coat on their dog.
Size and Breed
The size and breed of your dog may influence the need for warm dog outfits to battle harsh weather. Long or thick-haired dog breeds are unlikely to require the additional covering and warmth that a dog coat provides. The added heat might cause them to overheat. Dogs with thick, long, thick coats are more likely to be made for cold weather. Pups with short hair or breeds with no dense undercoat are more likely to appreciate the extra warmth.
Slender or extremely petite breeds might also benefit from the increased warmth of a coat. Tiny dogs are just not built to withstand the harsh winter cold. Slender breeds may lack the body mass required to remain warm in the winter.
Age Factor
Like people, dogs' capacity to withstand low temperatures may deteriorate as they age. They are unable to travel south for the winter and may not be able to properly acclimatize to cold temperatures. It is your responsibility as their guardian to give options to assist keep your dog as warm as possible in chilly weather.
Puppies are also more vulnerable to extreme cold or snow. Because they haven't formed their complete coats yet, their coats might not always keep them warm.
Weather Extremes
Your dog may be OK in standard cold weather ranges. When the most severe winter weather arrives, though, the inclusion of a winter coat may be precisely what they need to keep warm.
Motivation to Play
Some dogs are afraid to go outside in the cold. It may take some persuasion to get them out the door to go for a stroll in the freezing weather. The increased warmth of a coat built for those circumstances might encourage your dog to go outside in the cold. If your dog feels at ease, he is more likely to comply and go outside for needed exercise or to answer nature's call.
Don’t Force it
Some dogs dislike wearing dog outfits and should never be pressured to do so. While many dogs benefit from extra layers in colder weather, consider letting your dog wear the coat around the house for a few minutes at a time. If he or she is unresponsive or strikes the renowned "frozen in place" stance, cancel the project and move on.
Mobility
Another subject related to "Do dogs require coats?" is "How should dogs wear coats?" R Remember the kid in A Christmas Story who really couldn't budge after his mother wrapped him up? Take into account your dog's movement. Your dog, like you, needs to move about in a coat. Snug but not too tight is an excellent rule to follow.
Check for any more dangling zippers, snaps, or anything that might rub or annoy a dog. Male dogs will frequently wear clothing as long as it does not interfere with their "man bits." Take note of where any Velcro bands or fasteners rest against a dog's coat. The ability to try on items at the store is quite beneficial.
Tips for Choosing a Dog Coat
- Because there are many different types of dog jackets available, choose the proper one based on its utility.
- Make certain that the dog coat you pick fits your dog adequately. A sloppy fit defeats the function of insulation.
- If you live in an area where rain is prevalent, consider a dog coat with a waterproof coating to keep your dog dry.
- Do not force your dog to wear a dog coat if you do not believe it is necessary. It can cause suffocation and overheat in the dog.
How to Take Dog Coat Measurements
Another thing you need to do is take the measurements of your dog before buying a jacket.
Here's how it's done: Put a measuring tape from the base of the dog's neck (where the collar usually sits) to the base of the tail while the dog is standing erect. This is the standard size for most dog clothing. Knowing your dog's chest measurement can also guarantee a proper fit.
To Sum Up
As a good pet owner, you may need to assist your dog cope with cold weather by placing a coat on them before they venture out into the harsh winter cold. If your dog never has worn a coat before and is afraid to put it on, give them a sweet reward to help them through the procedure. They'll be more than happy to wear it after they realize how much warmer and happier they are in their new coat!