The weather is turning colder and as I’m pulling on my coat for the early morning dog walks, I’ve started to wonder if I should be putting one on my dog too. I’ll admit I like to be pretty well wrapped up, but I’m not sure if my dog would want to be or if it is even healthy for him to be bundled up in dog coats. So I’ve done a bit of research on what would be best for my dog. Should a dog be wearing a coat in winter? Here’s what I’ve found out.
If a dog is healthy, has a medium size frame or larger, and has dense fur there should be sufficient fur to keep him plenty warm enough for walks outside. As long as he is actively walking or running, there should be no requirement for a coat as the natural insulative properties will keep him cosy. However, if a dog has thin or short fur, has a thin body frame, is a puppy or a senior dog, or has underlying health issues, dog coats would be recommended.
The type of coat you choose is important. Go for something that isn’t too bulky or likely to restrict your dog’s movement. The coat should fit the dog perfectly – not too tight or loose. It’s also better to avoid decorative additions that can potentially get caught on shrubbery or can work loose and get ingested by a curious dog.
If you do choose to put a coat on your dog, keep a close eye. Make sure he is not left unattended while wearing the clothing and look for signs that he may be uncomfortable or getting too hot. A dog that is panting or drooling excessively may be overheating and requires medical attention from a veterinarian.
