Does my Dog need a Winter Coat?
The weather is quite the rollercoaster ride here in Pennsylvania. Overnight, it can go from a cool 60 degrees to sub 30. As dog owners, we want to make sure our pups stay safe and warm as we head into the chilly winter months. The big question a lot of us ask ourselves: “Does my dog need a winter coat?” The short answer: it can depend on your dog’s breed, size and even age!
According to the American Kennel Club, the general rule of thumb is large dogs with thick, dense coats are well protected from the cold. This includes breeds such as Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies, who have fur coats genetically designed to help keep them warm.
With that being said, there are dogs that need to be protected from extreme weather. Such dogs may include:
Toy & Miniature Breeds such as Chihuahuas and French Bulldogs. These breeds are often short-haired and cannot easily generate enough body heat to stay warm.
Any dogs that sit low to the ground such as Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Although some of these dogs might have thicker coats, their bellies sit low to the ground and often brush against the snow and ice.
Any dogs that are groomed to have short hair such as Poodles. Although their hair may be naturally thick or long, groomers thin and shorten their hair resulting in the need for added protection from the cold.
Lean-bodied breeds with short hair such as Greyhounds or Whippets. Although they are higher up, their thin coat and lack of body fat will warrant protection from the cold.
Senior Dogs. As a dog ages, their body’s ability to regulate heat may decline. Senior dogs are also more prone to conditions that may require a winter coat, such as arthritis or a weakened immune system. Regardless or breed or coat thickness, older dogs may be uncomfortable in the cold and would benefit from a winter coat.
If you decide your dog might benefit from a winter coat, there are some things to look for when shopping around. First, make sure you measure your dog properly. A dog’s winter coat should fit snug without being too tight. You do not want the coat to restrict your dog’s movement in any way but if it is too loose, that won’t do any good either. The most important areas to protect with a coat are your dog’s neck and belly and it should extend from the base of the neck to the base of his tail. If the coat is too long or too big, going to the bathroom could become problematic. Here are a few great options to start your off in your search:
Hurtta Summit Parka Dog Winter Coat
Plaid Reversible Windproof Waterproof Vest Jacket
ThinkPet Warm Reversible Dog Coat
Weatherbeeta Reflective Parka 300D Deluxe Lite Dog Coat
Stay warm!
