As the temperature begins to drop, dogs feel the cold just like we do! Keeping your dog warm through the winter months is vital to their overall health and wellbeing. So are dog coats necessary in winter, or is fur enough to insulate dogs from the cold?
A winter coat will provide your dog with insulation, and aid in keeping them warm throughout the winter months. Many dogs are fine during the cold weather, while others can benefit from some extra warmth. This can be especially beneficial for small dogs, dogs with short coats and senior dogs. There are many factors to take into consideration when deciding whether your dog needs a coat, with the most important being climate, breed and age.
Climate
In locations where the temperature gets extremely low, even breeds with long fluffy coats will more than likely need a coat for extra warmth. A coat may also be beneficial when there is wind, heavy rain, hail or snow. As a general rule, a coat is recommended for cold-sensitive breeds when the temperature falls below 14 degrees celsius, which is most winter nights in Australia. It is important to always look at your dog’s body language for signs of being uncomfortably hot or cold.
Breed
The breed of your dog can be an important factor when determining whether or not they need a coat. Dogs with thick and dense coats such as huskies and malamutes will not usually require a coat as their long coats will keep them warm. Smaller dogs like Chihuahuas and Terriers on the other hand feel the cold more and may benefit from a coat. These smaller breed dogs aren’t able to easily generate and retain enough body heat to keep themselves warm. Other dogs breeds that may benefit from a winter coat are dogs that are closer to the ground such as Corgis and Dachshunds, dogs with lean bodies such as greyhounds, and dogs with clipped hair such as poodles These dogs tend to feel the cold more, and a winter coat would be very welcomed during the cooler months.
Age
Heat regulation can diminish with age, so elderly pets might also benefit from a warm winter coat. Elderly dogs are known to slow down as they age, and are prone to conditions such as arthritis. This means that keeping them warm must be of the highest priority, so a coat is recommended to ensure they are warm and comfortable even in the coldest temperatures. At the other end of the age spectrum, some breeds of puppies may also benefit from a coat as dogs can be more sensitive whilst they are still growing.
Choosing a coat
If you decide your dog could benefit from a coat, you need to choose what kind of coat is suitable for your dog. In some warmer climates, a sweater might be enough to keep your dog warm, but if the weather is freezing or snowing, a winter jacket might be necessary. Be sure to purchase a coat that is properly suited to your dog’s size. The coat should fit snug to trap their body heat, but not too tight where it cuts off their circulation.
Other tips for winter
- If your dog sleeps outside, ensure they have access to a kennel that is protected from the elements
- Provide your dog with a warm and cosy bed
- Avoid shaving your dog’s hair in the winter months if possible
- Give your dog adequate exercise to keep active
It is important to note that every dog feels the cold differently, so no matter what breed your dog is, or how old he or she is, you should always keep an eye on them during the colder months. If you conclude that your dog needs a winter coat, you should look for a coat that protects the dog's torso and fits snuggly without being too tight. If you are unsure whether your dog needs a winter coat, we recommend contacting your veterinarian for advice.
