How to tell if a dog needs a coat?
Yessenia Gorczany
2025-08-09 13:57:59
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Dogs with fine or thin fur, such as Greyhounds and Whippets, and dogs that are very young, underweight, old or unwell need a warm dog coat when they go out, as they feel the cold much faster than other dogs. A fit and healthy dog with thick fur should be fine outside without a coat, as long as they’re active, playing or exercising. However, some dogs will appreciate a breathable layer if their home is chilly, but check them to make sure they’re not too warm. If you notice your dog is shivering or slowing down, bring them home and into the warmth straight away, as this is a sign that they are getting cold. Smaller dog breeds, like Chihuahuas and small Terriers, can feel the cold quickly, so they will benefit from the extra warmth of a coat in winter. Some dogs, such as Huskies and Malamutes, are well suited to colder weather, so you may find they’re happier to be in the cold for their usual walk. No matter what sort of dog you have, always keep an eye on them while out and about and take them home if they aren’t coping.
Jerod McCullough
2025-07-30 08:22:13
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If there’s snow and ice on the ground, or persistent chilly winds, then a winter jacket for your dog is a good idea. Small or thin-furred breeds, puppies, and senior dogs will generally need a winter coat when the temperature outside feels at or below 32°F (0°C). Once the temperature drops below 20°F (-6.6°C), keep a close eye on your dog, regardless of breed, for signs that they are uncomfortably cold. If you’re putting on a coat to go outside, odds are good that it’s cold enough for your dog to need a coat as well. A good rule of thumb, no matter what the breed, is that if your dog seems cold—shivering, whining, or slowing down—a coat can’t hurt. Shorter-haired dogs, small dogs and puppies, senior dogs, dogs with medical conditions, and short-legged dogs can benefit from wearing coats when it’s cold out.
It really depends on the individual dog. Dogs get cold just like people do, but some dogs, like Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies, were bred for cold climates, while others may get cold more strongly due to their breed or size. Intense cold can cause hypothermia, which occurs when a dog’s body temperature falls to dangerously low levels, so monitoring your dog's behavior and adjusting their routine accordingly is essential.
Carley Kutch
2025-07-30 06:22:15
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As a general rule, if the temperature drops below 5 degrees Celsius or lower, it's time to dress that pet. The PDSA says that large dogs with thick and dense coats, such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, are usually quite happy to take a walk in the cold. However, Blue Cross cautions that short-coated breeds like greyhounds, Dobermans and Staffordshire terriers often struggle to cope with the cold weather. Dogs who are smaller, leaner, and/or lower to the ground might also benefit from additional layers. Since heat regulation diminishes with age, elderly pets of any breed might benefit from extra layers. While a light jacket is fine for dogs with thicker coats, a winter jacket is best for small dogs or dogs with thinner coats. If you're unsure whether your dog needs winter gear, contact your veterinarian and ask if your dog could benefit from some additional winter protection. Some dogs cope with cold weather better than others, but the PDSA warns that any pets -- even dogs with thick coats -- can suffer from hypothermia in very cold weather.
Desmond Kertzmann
2025-07-30 03:56:04
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Knowing whether or not your pup needs a jacket depends on a few factors. The first thing to consider is the type of dog — different dogs have different needs. Short-haired dogs and small dogs, for example, often need a little help staying warm in cool to cold conditions. Long-haired dogs can also benefit from a coat if they’re prone to snowballs forming on their underside. Some breeds, however, are less likely to need a jacket given their double coats — think Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes — although having one on hand is always a good idea should you notice signs your dog is cold. These include shivering, a hunched posture, tucked tail, whining or barking, or seeking out warmth. Ultimately, if you need a jacket, your dog probably does, too. And at the end of the day, having one at the ready is always a good idea.
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