At what temperature does a dog need a coat?
Fatima Zulauf
2025-06-21 11:06:29
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Most dogs spend a lot of time inside and are not used to extreme cold, so they could develop hypothermia or frostbite. Short-coated breeds of dogs, like greyhounds, Dobermans and Staffordshire bull terriers, can struggle to cope with the cold weather and may need a coat. If this is the case, it’s a good idea to invest in some winter clothes, such as a cosy doggy jumper or coat, ready for when they go outside. Other breeds, such as Labradors, huskies and German shepherds, are not so bothered by the cold because they already have a thick coat that does a great job of keeping them warm. Just remember to keep in mind that just like us, all dogs are individual and some may feel the cold more, particularly if they are older. Put on their coat before you head out if they’re sensitive to the cold.
Adele Schmitt
2025-06-11 05:00:43
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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. 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. 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.
Jarod Schowalter
2025-06-03 12:26:24
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Dogs with fine or thin fur 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. They should go out in the cold for shorter periods too. A fit and healthy dog with thick fur should be fine outside without a coat, as long as they’re active, playing or exercising. But it’s a good idea not to let them out for too long in case they start to feel cold. 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. However, 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. 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.
Felix Romaguera
2025-06-03 10:29:44
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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. If there’s snow and ice on the ground, or persistent chilly winds, then a winter jacket for your dog is a good idea.
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