Does My Dog Need a Coat?
You can just give your pet a loving squeeze if you are indoors and you see that your dog could use a bit of warmth. However, when it is time to venture into the great wintry outdoors, ensuring your dog stays warm should be the utmost priority. You may logically be wondering, does my dog need a coat?How Does Your Dog Likely Feel?
You may not be surprised to know that it depends on the size and breed of the dog. If you have a Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute, they already come well-equipped for winter weather. Big canines with double coats fare better against harsh conditions versus small dogs with thin coats. In addition to this, the dog’s age, activity level, and overall health should all be taken into consideration when trying to decide whether to dress them in a coat or not. As always, getting advice from your veterinarian on the matter is something that just makes sense.Watch Your Dog for Signs
If your dog feels excessively cold, its behavior will point to it. They may not feel like going outdoors and walking around more slowly than usual. You may notice them shiver or tremble and bark or whine. Other dogs may show more subtle clues. Pay attention to any behaviors that are out of the blue.What Dogs Typically Need Winter Coats?
- Senior dogs benefit from wearing a coat in the wintertime. The extra warmth may feel comforting to the joints of arthritic dogs.
- Dogs who are positioned low to the ground. When a dog’s belly is right next to the snow and ice, a little extra warmth can go a long way.
- Short-haired dogs with lean bodies, such as Greyhounds and Whippets need an extra layer to keep them comfortable.