If you wear a jacket when the weather is cold, it makes sense that your dog would do so as well. Some dogs need coats for different reasons, but depending on their circumstances, all dogs can benefit.
Veterinarians and experts have a list of recommendations for the best dog coat, jacket, or sweater to keep your dog warm this winter.
Do Dog Coats Make a Perfect Winter Coat?
If a dog is going out for a quick bathroom break outside, she probably won’t require a coat. However, if temperatures fall below zero it may be beneficial, according to Dr. Lisa Powell is a veterinarian at BluePearl Veterinary Partners, Eden Prairie in Minnesota. I put something on the dogs because it was so cold.
According to Dr. Susan Jeffrey a veterinarian from Truesdell Animal Care Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin.
Some dogs hold their paws up when they become cold, and will sometimes refuse to move. Some dogs will shiver. Other dogs will shiver.
What breeds of dogs need coats?
Cold weather is a problem for some breeds of dogs. Dr. Jeffrey advises that dogs with short coats, dogs with thin coats, and dogs who have thin bodies should be wearing a jacket in the colder months. Dr. Jeffrey says that this includes most small and toy breeds like Chihuahuas. Toy Poodles. Italian Greyhounds. Whippets. Yorkshire Terriers. Chinese Cresteds. Havanese.
According to Dr. Kelly Ballantyne is a certified veterinary behaviorist who owns Insight Animal Behavior Services, located in Chicago, Illinois.
According to Dr. Powell who has been board certified in emergency and critical care, large, shedding dogs like Huskies or malamutes don’t typically need coats. The size of a dog is not the only factor to consider.
Some large breeds such as Great Danes or Greyhounds may be able to benefit as their coats are very short and do not offer insulation, says Dr. Jeffrey.
When buying a dog jacket, you should consider the breed of your dog, its size, and even fur length. But there are also other factors to take into account.
Dr. Ballantyne says that there can be individual variations in the tolerance to cold. These can be linked to factors such as age, health issues and physical condition. Consult your vet for the best advice for your dog.
What type of winter clothing does your dog need?
According to Dr. Jeffrey, it depends on the breed. Dr. Jeffrey says that a heavy jacket is not necessary for a muscular French Bulldog, however, a warm sweater will keep him comfortable outside. “A Chinese Crested has very little fur, and needs a heavier jacket to go outside during the winter.”
She adds that some small breeds such as Shih Tzus may need only a sweater depending on the length of their hair. Some suggestions for dog sweaters include the Chilly Dog cable knit grey dog and cats sweater.
Dr. Jeffrey suggests that you buy a dog coat or jacket made of waterproof or resistant material if your plan is to leave your pup out for a longer period. Lightweight insulation such.