Winter Dog Care: Do Dogs Need Coats or Jackets in Winter?

As it gets colder outside and we start putting on warm winter coats, you may also wonder whether you should buy one for your dog. But does your dog need a winter jacket? Or is it nothing more than a marketing trick? The answer depends on many factors, like your dog’s breed, size, and weather conditions.

Stick around to learn more about winter clothing for dogs, how to determine if your dog needs it, and the benefits of using it to stay warm. Let’s dive into the topic.

Do Dogs Need Winter Coats in Cold Weather?

Whether your dog will benefit from a dog coat depends on many factors (as not all dogs need it). You should generally consider factors such as your dog’s breed, age, health status, and the climate around you.

If you notice your dog shivering or lifting their paws to avoid touching cold surfaces, you should consider equipping them with some winter coats.

For dog owners living in areas with frequent temperature drops to around 40 Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius), buying a set of winter clothes for the dog can be beneficial.

Even the breeds with thick fur can experience hypothermia or frostbite during long walks in a cold weather. However, the rule of thumb is that dogs with thin coats and low to the ground are good candidates for winter jackets.

When Do Dogs Need Winter Coats?

The question many dog owners want to know the answer to: at what temperature does a dog need a coat?

It isn’t easy to provide an answer suitable for all dogs. Indeed, dog breeds with double-layer coats have better tolerance to cold temperatures. But what if we talk about a husky with some health issues or a malamute of advanced age? 

Outside temperature plays a vital role in deciding whether your dog should wear a coat. If it’s cold enough to wear one, you can offer your dog some insulated clothing, too.

Remember, young puppies and senior dogs are more likely to get cold. The same is true for dogs with chronic health issues.

Dog Breeds That Need Dog Jackets

The individual tolerance to cold is unique to each pet. However, some breeds have physical characteristics that make them more likely to suffer from hypothermia. These are primarily small dogs with thinner coats and low body fat.

Some popular breeds that need winter coats:

• Boxer: You may consider buying a fleece jacket to compensate for a boxer’s short, single-layer coat.

• Chihuahua and Pinshcer: Small and short-coated, these dogs struggle to maintain their body temperature when cold. Consider using an insulated jacket to help them stay warm.

• Dachshunds: These dogs are particularly prone to getting damp quickly due to their long body and being low to the ground. You can help shield them by using warm coats.

• French bulldogs: Due to their brachycephalic face, they have trouble regulating their body temperature. In addition, their short coat is insufficient to keep them warm outside. That’s why winter clothing is a must.

• Greyhounds: This breed is well-known for its sleek appearance, low body fat, and short coat. These dogs will benefit from warm and well-fitted jackets.

• Toy poodle: Having a delicate frame, toy poodles need extra clothing to stay warm. A soft, insulated winter jacket is a perfect choice for this breed.

How to Tell Your Dog Needs a Winter Jacket?

Despite some objective criteria like breed, age, and weather outside, sometimes the easiest way to define if your dog needs a winter coat is to look for the signs of being cold. For some dogs, the desire to stay warmer is their individual preference.

Signs that your dog is cold are:

• The dog is shaking or shivering

• The dog hunches their back and tucks their tail

• The dog shows signs of anxiety, like barking or whining

• The dog tries to find a sheltered place

• The dog lifts the paws off the cold ground

• The dog curls up to sleep

Benefits of Winter Clothing for Dogs and When to Avoid It

Some benefits of wearing winter coats for dogs are apparent: they keep dogs warm. Still, some dogs can benefit from wearing a coat in not-so-obvious ways. 

Some advantages of using winter coats for dogs:

1. Protection from elements (shielding against rain and snow)
2. Improved skin health
3. Calming effects 

When choosing a dog's coat, stick to certified products made of quality fabrics. It's essential to ensure your dog’s skin health and temperature regulation are good. If the dog is playing outside in the snow or wet grass, remove the clothes if it's wet.

Do Dogs Like to Wear Winter Clothing?

Whether your pet will enjoy wearing extra garments depends on your dog's personality, their need to stay warm, and how you introduce the clothing.

Many dogs, especially those with thin coats, will appreciate the comfort wearing a winter jacket provides. Additionally, dogs that started wearing clothing young have a better tolerance for wearing a winter coat. Associating winter clothes with positive things, such as walks, can also help your dog love winter clothes more.

Pro tip: To introduce winter clothes, you can put them on before giving them a meal and take them off when they finish eating to create positive associations with the clothes. You can also start using it for short walks and gradually increase the time they wear it.

However, you should be mindful of your dog’s body language and never make them wear clothes they don’t want to. Whining, trying to remove a winter coat and refusing to walk are clear signs of your dog’s discomfort.

How Long Can Dogs Stay Outside in Cold Weather?

All dogs enjoy outside walks and should spend time outdoors regularly. However, it's vital to take all safety measures if you take your dog out in cold weather. Though the time your dog can tolerate freezing temperatures can be unique for your specific dog, we can define some general time limitations.

For smaller dogs, it's about 15 minutes when it’s 32ºF or less (0ºC). Larger breeds can stay outside longer, especially those with thicker or double-layer coats. At 32ºF, they can safely remain outside for 30 minutes. The outdoor time can be longer, especially if your dog is busy and physically active during the walk. 

Some states passed legislation regulating the time you can keep your dog outside legally. Check your state's time restrictions to avoid a fine.

Wrap Up

Most dogs are fans of active outdoor activities. Depending on your dog’s size, breed, and other characteristics, a dog may experience discomfort during the cold winter months. Consider getting a winter coat to keep your dog warm to avoid hypothermia. It protects your dog from the elements and makes outdoor walks more enjoyable.