Should you put a coat on your dog to protect him from the cold in winter?

When temperatures drop, dogs can be susceptible to the cold, regardless of their fur. This raises the question: should you put a coat on your dog during cold weather?

Contrary to popular belief, dogs do feel the cold and can suffer from it. Just imagine walking barefoot on freezing ground and think about how that would feel on your dog's paw pads.

The risk of catching a cold is not limited to their paws; their thorax and stomach are also susceptible. Dogs are not immune to illnesses like pneumonia, bronchitis, or gastritis. Considering these factors, should you put a coat on your dog to protect them from the cold?

Why put a coat on your dog?

Many often wonder at what temperature a dog starts to feel cold. In reality, it's less about monitoring a specific thermometer reading and more about observing your dog's behavior. If your dog doesn't want to go for a walk when it's cold, shivers during walks, turns away, or walks with its head down, it's their way of showing discomfort and suffering due to low temperatures.

Certain breeds are more vulnerable and sensitive to the cold than others. Puppies, older dogs, small breeds (such as Chihuahuas, Pinschers, and Dachshunds), and dogs without an undercoat or short fur (like Greyhounds, Dalmatians, Boxers, and Dobermans) fall into this category.

Dr. Stéphane Tardif, a veterinary behaviorist, explains, "Small breeds, in particular, need to limit caloric loss because the cold increases the risk of illness—either directly through hypothermia or indirectly by weakening the immune system."

Should you put a coat on your dog to protect them from the cold?

The answer is yes. Contrary to what some might think, putting a coat on your dog is not ridiculous or futile, as long as it is justified. And during cold weather, it is justified!

Not all dogs have the same feeling or resistance to the cold due to varying coat densities. If your dog seems cold, shivers, or refuses to walk in cold weather, equipping them with appropriate clothing will make their walk much more comfortable, assures Dr. Tardif.

Jacket, down jacket, k-way, parka, fleece... Which coat to choose for your dog?

Now, how do you choose the right coat to protect your dog from the cold? Many dogs, especially those unaccustomed to wearing coats, may initially dislike it, despite the protection and added comfort it provides during outings.

The first criterion when choosing a coat is comfort. Your dog must feel comfortable wearing it. "To determine if the coat fits the dog, they should be able to move as if they weren't wearing one, with a natural gait without paying attention to the clothing," explains Dr. Tardif.

The coat should be tailored to their size and body shape and must cover their stomach. For example, mastiffs and Greyhounds require coats designed specifically for their unique body structures, which differ from those intended for Chihuahuas or Yorkshires. Some coats even cover the legs.

Consider the material of the coat as well. Prioritize a waterproof and padded dog coat that is lightweight for the dog's comfort. Hoods, on the other hand, are usually more aesthetic than useful.

Choose a model that is easy to put on to avoid struggling with your dog. If your dog uses a harness, some coats have a built-in opening at the back to attach the leash to the harness, underneath the coat. There are also coats with integrated harnesses, and some even come with buckles, eliminating the need for a separate harness or leash.

Lastly, the coat should also suit your preferences and budget, although the dog's comfort must take priority over fashion. Gradually accustom your dog to wearing the coat by encouraging them and associating it with positive experiences, such as walks or rewards.

Remember, protecting your dog from the cold is essential, and providing them with a suitable coat can greatly enhance their comfort and well-being during colder months.