Does my dog need a winter coat?

Whether or not your pet actually needs a jumper depends entirely on their breed, age, health and lifestyle. In the cold months of the year, most pets will find some benefit in wearing a jumper or coat.

Breed

While the majority of dogs and cats are covered with lustrous fur coats, it’s worth remembering that some have lighter layers of fur than others. This is largely determined by the animal’s genetics and where its forebears lived. Of course, since domesticating these animals, they often find themselves in environments that they are not genetically suited to.

Not all dogs like, or need, an extra layer in winter, but choosing the right winter coat or winter clothes, might make all the difference on a super-chilly morning. Just make sure you do your research, look at the materials in each product and find something which makes your dog’s winter adventures a little more comfortable.

Dogs susceptible to cold

Little dogs, for instance Chihuahuas, Chinese Cresteds, Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Toy Spaniels and Pugs may feel the colder temperatures more acutely.

Lean and short-haired dogs, such as American Pit Bull Terriers, Bulldogs, Boxers, Beagles, Greyhounds, Whippets, Pointers and Pinscher, and hairless breeds don’t have a furry coat to protect them, so you’ll need to provide them with warm dog clothing.

Cats susceptible to cold

Growing a winter coat, or an undercoat, is a natural instinct for cats. However, cats such as the Cornish Rex and Sphynx don’t grow an undercoat and can feel the cold all throughout the year, not just in winter.

Age

Puppies and kittens shouldn’t go outside in the extreme cold, as they don’t have the fat, metabolism or fur coat to sustain their body temperature. If you do take them outside, to the toilet for instance, a jumper or coat is a good option. Be aware that adults of some more sensitive breeds may be reluctant to toilet outside if the grass is cold and wet. A portable indoor toilet may be a good option here. Older pets, particularly those with chronic illness, are also good candidates for jumpers as they tend to be more at risk in cold weather.

Health and lifestyle

Your pet’s general health can also determine whether they need a winter sweater. Dogs who are elderly or sick are generally more sensitive to the cold and may require more insulation. If you pet suffer from arthritis, they may benefit from wearing a jumper, as the additional warmth can help prevent their joints from getting stiff and sore. Jumpers are also beneficial in providing extra warmth for animals suffering from diseases that impair hair growth like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. Use with caution in long haired dogs as coats can make them more prone to matting.

The amount of time you spend outside, and the activity level of your dog will also make a difference. For instance, a dog who is playing and racing around at full speed will stay warmer than a dog going on a leisurely walk. It can be hard to tell when your pet is feeling the cold, and unfortunately, they can’t tell us in so many words. To find out how to tell if your pet is feeling the cold and needs a jumper to keep warm, click here.

What kind of jumper?

Our stores stock a wide range of clothing for dogs and cats, including weatherproof gear, Weatherbeetas, knits, coats and reflective, high-visibility gear. Visit your nearest Animates store to see the full range.

As winter approaches, many pet owners wonder if their dog needs extra protection from the cold. Although many dogs cope with (or even enjoy!) the cold weather, some can struggle to keep warm in winter, despite their fur coats. Here are the four key considerations to help you determine if your furry friend needs a winter coat.

1. Breed

Not all dog breeds feel cold the same way. While some breeds like Newfoundlands and Huskies were traditionally born to live in cold temperatures and have natural insulation, some breeds are less adapted to cold climates and require extra protection. Dogs that may benefit from a winter coat include the following categories:

Small, miniature, and toy breeds: These dogs can often struggle to regulate their body temperature and are more prone to feeling the cold. Breeds in this category include: Chihuahuas, Chinese Cresteds, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Toy Poodles, and Pugs.

Short-legged and close-to-the-ground breeds: Being low to the ground means these breeds lose body heat quickly and are more affected by low temperatures. Breeds that fall into this category include: Corgis, Pekinese, Basset Hound, and Dachshund.

Breeds with lean bodies and short hair: Low body fat and a thinner covering of fur means these breeds lose heat quickly due to their lack of insulation. Breeds with thin fur coats that fall under this category include: Pitbull, Boxer, Whippet, Pointer, Greyhound, Hungarian Vizsla, and Staffordshire Terrier. 

Clipped long-haired dogs: Long-haired breeds still require regular grooming during the winter months and may feel the cold after clipping. Breeds that fall under this category include: Cocker Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Bearded Collies, Poodle, and Havanese.

 
2. Age

Age is an important factor to consider when it comes to your dog's cold tolerance. 

Puppies: Puppies might not have as much body fat or dense fur as adult dogs, making them more susceptible to feeling cold in winter. Consider dressing them in a winter coat, especially for outdoor adventures.

Senior dogs: As dogs age, they may develop thinner fur and lose muscle mass, which affects their ability to stay warm and regulate body temperature. Additionally, senior dogs are more prone to health issues like arthritis, making them more sensitive to the cold.

 
3. Health

Dogs with certain health conditions may be more susceptible to the cold and could benefit from wearing a winter coat, including:

Arthritis: Dogs with arthritis or joint issues may experience heightened discomfort in cold temperatures, as the cold can exacerbate stiffness and pain.

Respiratory issues: Dogs with respiratory issues or heart conditions may struggle to regulate their body temperature efficiently.

Thin hair: Dogs with conditions that impair hair growth may find it challenging to stay warm in cold weather conditions.

 
4. Lifestyle

Consider your dog's outdoor time and how active they are. Dogs playing or exercising vigorously generate more body heat and may handle colder temperatures without a coat. On the other hand, dogs going on leisurely walks may benefit from additional warmth. While your dog might be fine without a coat for a quick 10-minute bathroom break outside, they may prefer wearing one for longer outings on cold winter days.

If you're planning anything more active than a leisurely walk, it's a good idea to remove the coat beforehand. Sometimes, wearing too much can cause them to overheat, even in winter.

If you're unsure whether your dog needs a coat in cold weather, here are some tips to help tell if your furry friend is feeling cold:

Temperature: Check the temperature of your pet's extremities, such as their ears and paws. If they feel cold to the touch (like a fridge temperature), it may indicate that they're feeling chilly. This occurs because their body redirects circulation away from the skin to internal organs when they're too cold, resulting in cold extremities.

Body language: One of the best ways to tell if your dog needs a coat is by simply watching them. While pets do shiver like us, this is a less reliable sign as they’ll also shake when they’re anxious. Instead, you can use their posture and body language as a more useful clue. When they are cold, dogs often curl themselves up and tuck their legs in to form a tight ball, trapping that body warmth when they are feeling cold.

Our stores stock a wide range of clothing for dogs, including weatherproof gear, Weatherbeetas, knits, coats and reflective, high-visibility gear. Visit your nearest Animates store to see the full range.

While we love to see furry friends looking fur-bulous, their comfort comes first. Dogs don't naturally wear clothes, but sometimes it's necessary to help them adjust to the weather, especially if their breed, health, age, or coat condition isn't suited to the climate. If your dog is okay with wearing clothing, a cosy dog coat can make all the difference in keeping them happy and warm during the winter season.