Myth Busters: Do Dogs Need Coats in the Winter?
Dog winter coats are cute, but do dogs truly *need* coats or sweaters during the Winter months? We have compiled a list of popular myths regarding pet coats and our opinion of each.
- All dogs need to wear coats to protect them from the cold. Not ALL dogs need a coat or sweater to keep them warm when venturing outside. However, senior dogs, short-haired breeds, puppies, and dogs with medical conditions will benefit from the additional warmth.
- All dogs can become accustomed to wearing a coat. Some dogs are uncomfortable wearing a coat and should never be forced to do so. Test the idea by putting the coat on your pet while inside. You should be good to go if they are responsive. Otherwise, skip the idea!
- All sweaters are created equal. This is false. Pet owners must pay close attention to the material of the sweater. For example, waterproof coats will do a better job of blocking the snow. Also, the inside lining of the coat plays an important role as it can provide comfort while protecting against the colder temperatures.
- Larger dogs do not need to wear winter coats. Some dogs were bred with a thicker or a denser coat which protects them during the Winter months. However, larger breeds such as the Greyhound might benefit from a coat as they are more sensitive to colder weather.
- Coats and hoodies must look heavy to adequately protect dogs. Technology has evolved in the outerwear market. Heavy does not necessarily mean “better”; in fact, if a coat is too warm, dogs can overheat. Use caution!
We hope that our list has given you a better understanding of Winter coats for dogs. Overall, it depends on the type of breed and their sensitivity to colder weather. If you are in the market for a new pet coat, we recommend that you visit your local pet store or Amazon to find the best deal!
