Does My Dog Need a Coat for the Winter?
Dog walks may be more of a struggle with unusually cold weather across most of the country during the winter months. Have you ever bundled yourself up so much to be protected from the cold and harsh weather conditions? If so, your dog needs the same protection as well. As a rule of thumb, large dogs with thick, dense coats are well protected from the cold. Some of these breeds include Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes. However, there are other dogs that need to be protected from extreme weather. These include:
- Small, toy, and miniature shorthaired breeds. These smaller dogs cannot easily generate and retain enough body heat to keep themselves warm.
- Dogs that sit low to the ground. Some dogs have bellies that sit low enough to the ground which causes them to brush up against the snow and ice.
- Breeds that typically have long hair but are clipped or shorn. Think about the Poodle. This means that grooming may alter the natural protection of their coats.
- Lean-bodied breeds with short hair. These are breeds that should be protected from the cold.
- Senior dogs. These dogs are prone to conditions which may require a winter coat, such as arthritis or a weakened immune system. Heat regulation may decline with age, making even a thick-coated dog uncomfortable in the cold.
As you can see, there are several dogs that need to be protected from the harshness of cold weather! Once you’ve determined that your dog needs a winter coat, look for a coat that protects their neck and stomach. The coat should extend from the base of their neck to their tail, without being so long that it would make bathroom stops problematic. You will want a coat that fits snug without being too tight. Clothing should never restrict your dog’s movement. There are many styles to choose from! Just browse your local pet store or online Marketplace to find the best fit!
