When the cold weather arrives, a question arises: should I put a coat on my dog or is it an exaggeration? It depends on the dog. Some really need it and others have more than enough. Here is how to find out.
Which dogs need a coat?
- Short or fine-haired breeds: greyhounds, podencos, chihuahuas, boxers, pinschers, pugs… They have little coat to insulate them from the cold.
- Small dogs: lose heat much faster than large ones and are closer to the cold, wet ground.
- Puppies and older dogs: regulate their temperature less effectively.
- Very thin, ill, or recently operated dogs.
Which dogs usually don't need one?
Nordic breeds and double-coated breeds, such as huskies, samoyeds, German shepherds, golden retrievers, and Bernese mountain dogs, are prepared for the cold. Putting a coat on them can make them overheat. In their case, what is useful on rainy days is, at most, a light raincoat.
How to tell if your dog is cold?
- They shiver even when calm and still.
- They lift their paws or stop in the middle of a walk.
- They walk hunched over or with their tail between their legs.
- At home they curl up into a ball and look for blankets, radiators, or your lap.
If you see these signs often, a coat will make their winter walks much more pleasant.
How to choose a coat that works?
- It should cover the chest and back. This is where they lose the most heat. Coats that only cover the back provide little warmth.
- True to size. Measure the back length, from the base of the neck to the base of the tail, and the chest circumference at its widest point. If they are between two sizes, choose the larger one.
- It shouldn't rub. Neither under the armpits nor when walking. They should be able to move, sit, and do their business normally.
- Waterproof if it rains often where you live. A wet coat cools them down more than wearing nothing at all.
- Easy to put on and wash. If it is difficult to put on, you will end up leaving it at home.
And inside the house, too?
Generally no. Inside the house, it is normal to take it off so they don't get too hot. The exception is very cold-sensitive or older dogs in cold houses, who may benefit from a light sweater.
In our dog clothing section you will find padded coats, wool vests, waterproof trench coats, and sweaters, with a size chart on each product page. Free shipping throughout Spain.
You may also be interested in: dog coats, dog raincoats and waterproofs, and beds and coats for autumn.
If you prefer to get everything at once, in the Winter Pack you can choose what your pet needs from coats, raincoats, and warm beds.