When temperatures drop, many owners wonder whether their dog needs to be covered up. The answer depends mostly on breed, coat and age. Here's how to tell if your dog needs one, and what to choose.
Which dogs need covering?
A husky or a shepherd with a thick coat usually doesn't need help. Some dogs, however, are much more sensitive to the cold:
- short-haired dogs: greyhounds, whippets, chihuahuas, pinschers;
- small dogs, and short-legged dogs like dachshunds, whose bellies sit close to the cold, damp ground;
- puppies, and older or frail dogs.
Is your dog shivering, lifting their paws, slowing down or keen to head home? That's a sign they're cold.
Sweater, coat or raincoat?
- The sweater: perfect in cool, dry weather, or indoors if your dog feels the cold. Soft and light, it doesn't restrict movement.
- The coat or puffer: for real cold. Choose a padded or lined model, ideally water-repellent.
- The raincoat: a must in rainy weather, it keeps the coat dry and saves you a big drying session when you get home. Reflective strips are a plus for walks after dark.
Getting the size right
Measure the neck, the chest (the widest part behind the front legs) and the back length, from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. The garment should cover the back and belly without squeezing: you should be able to slip two fingers between the fabric and the body. Long-bodied breeds like dachshunds or greyhounds often need specific cuts.
Good habits
- Get your dog used to it gradually, with treats.
- Take the garment off indoors so they don't overheat.
- Dry their paws well when you get back: salt and snow can irritate the pads.
Our picks
Knitted sweaters, water-repellent coats, reflective raincoats, special dachshund or greyhound fits: explore our Clothing collection to face winter nice and warm.