Winter Dog Clothes: What You Should Know

boxer wearing sweater in the cold winter

With the temperature dropping rapidly and our toes getting colder, we know it’s officially wintertime. And it’s time we dress up ourselves and our furry babies appropriately for the cold weather. Would you like to learn more about winter dog clothes and what options are good for you and your furry pal? Then, this blog post is for you!

Should Dogs Wear Clothes in the Winter?

To learn whether dogs need clothes or not depends on several factors such as your dog’s coat, size, breed, the temperature outside, etc. Generally, breeds with lots of fur do not need winter clothes. Their coat helps them endure intense winters.

Dog Breeds that don’t need clothes:

  • Bearded Collie
  • Bernese Mountain Dog
  • Chow Chow
  • Great Pyrenees
  • Havanese
  • Husky (Here is a great guide for you: Do Huskies Like the Cold?)
  • Komondor
  • Pomeranian

Small breeds or short-haired such as the Chihuahua, Italian Greyhound, Dachshund, on the other hand, cannot retain body heat and may need additional clothing.

One thing that you should keep in mind is that winter dog clothes are not for the house. Dogs should never wear any warm coats, jackets, or sweaters while inside. They run the risk of getting overheated easily. Further, always remove any clothing items that they don’t need to avoid skin irritation and chafing.

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What Should Dogs Wear in Cold Weather?

Once you have determined that your dog could use a winter coat—and got approval from your vet—you’ll have to decide which type of coat your dog needs. First, consider the kind of material your dog’s coat should have. Then, ask your vet for recommendations on materials compatible with your dog’s fur coat type.

What to consider when buying winter dog clothes:

  • Size
  • Material
  • Tightness
  • Breathability
  • Comfort
  • Easy to wear
  • Durability
  • Waterproof
  • Windproof
  • Insulation

Examples: Cloud Chaser Jacket, Kurgo Jacket, RUFFWEAR K-9 Overcoat.

Note: Consult your vet for recommendations on good materials for your dog based on their type of fur. Possible allergic reactions include:

  • itching
  • sneezing
  • inflamed skin
  • swelling (face, eyelids, ears, etc.)
  • diarrhea
  • vomiting

Final Words

In conclusion, use your best judgement to decide whether or not you need to buy winter dog clothes for your furry pal.

Still looking for answers? Schedule an instant video consultation with our qualified veterinarians and get tailored advice from the comfort of your home – today.

Are you looking for information on winter cat clothes? Click to learn more!

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