Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

by Britt

Published: November 9th, 2023

Photo credit: alexei_tm / Shutterstock.com

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, many pet parents face a common question: Should my dog wear a winter coat?

It’s a valid question! After all, we bundle up before heading out into the ice and snow. Why shouldn’t our dogs? This article will explore the considerations, benefits, and potential downsides of winter coats for dogs. Plus, we’ll share the coats we use to keep our pups warm and cozy.

Let’s get started…

Do All Dogs Need a Coat in Winter?

The short answer is no. Not all dogs need a winter coat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. In fact, some dogs will be more comfortable without a winter coat. That leaves us with one more question – how do you know if your dog will need a coat this season? Here are a few factors to consider:

Breed & Coat Length

What breed or breed mix is your dog? Some dogs, like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Keeshond, were specifically bred to handle the colder temperatures. These dogs have thick double coats, including a water-resistant guard coat and a plush, warm undercoat. If you own one of these dogs, you may see them relaxing outside, happily napping in a snowbank. They thrive in cooler weather but struggle when the temperatures climb.

On the other end of the spectrum, some dogs were bred to live in warmer climates. These dogs have short coats, offering little protection from the winter cold.

Age

Your dog’s age could make them more sensitive to changes in temperature, both heat and cold. If you have a young puppy or a senior dog, they may need a little extra care and attention. Not only do they feel cold faster, but the low temperatures could worsen the discomfort of a senior dog’s arthritis or other joint problems. Even if your dog once thrived in cold temperatures, they may struggle in their older years.

Disease or Illness

If your dog is currently living with a disease or illness, it can compromise their ability to regulate their body temperature effectively. Your dog’s condition can impact many aspects of their well-being. It may weaken their immune system, causing dehydration or interfering with proper circulation.

Contact your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether your dog’s illness could impact their ability to handle the cold.

Activity Level

Are you heading outside to hang out in your yard, or are you planning to engage in something more active like a hike or skijoring? As your dog’s muscles are engaged and working, they are producing heat that raises the body temperature.

If your dog occasionally needs a light jacket, they may not need one during heavy activity. On the other hand, if your dog is usually okay when you’re going for a walk, they may need a light jacket or sweater if they are going to be standing around.

What Temperature Should My Dog Wear a Coat?

Determining the temperature when your dog needs to wear a winter coat will depend on the factors we discussed. For example, a short-coated dog may need a coat when the temperature reaches 32 F. Meanwhile, a double-coated dog could be comfortable in far colder temperatures.

How Do I Know if My Dog is Feeling Cold?

If there is no rule for when a dog should wear a coat, how do you know if one is needed? Just like with people, every dog handles temperature differently. The only way to know when your dog needs a coat is to learn to recognize when they are starting to feel cold. Of course, your dog can’t talk and tell you that they are feeling chilly. Instead, we must pay close attention to their body language.

The most common signs that a dog is cold include:

Shivering or shaking
Whining or barking
Acting uncomfortable or anxious
Lifting and holding their paws up off the ground
Standing in a hunched posture, tail tucked between their legs
Lying in a circle, tucking their nose under their tail
Seeking places to hide

Do you suspect your dog may feel cold or unsure if you are picking up on their body signals? You can quickly check your dog’s body temperature by touching their stomach or around their ears. If these areas are cool to the touch, your dog is likely feeling cold.

During the cold winter months, your dog is at risk of hyperthermia and frostbite. If you notice any of the above signs, act quickly. Bring your dog indoors into the heat or outfit them with proper winter gear, including a coat and, potentially, a set of dog boots.

Lucifer wearing his Shedrow K9 winter coat during a cold Canadian winter

What to Consider When Shopping for a Dog Coat

Now that we have established when (or if) your dog should wear a coat, let’s dig into the details about the coats themselves. There are several different styles and materials to choose from. Here are a few factors to consider to help you on your shopping journey:

Size

One of the most obvious things to consider when shopping for your dog’s new coat is the size. If the coat is too small, it will be uncomfortable and could restrict movement. If the coat is too big, it may create a tripping hazard. In both situations, it won’t offer the level of protection from the elements that it would if fit correctly.

Take a moment to measure your dog carefully before shopping in person or online. You need measurements of their neck, chest circumference, and the length of their back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. These measurements will allow you to use a brand’s sizing guide for online purchases to find the best fit.

If possible, I recommend bringing your dog to a local pet store to try on several different jackets. Just like shopping for human clothing, each brand’s coat will fit differently. You may find that one is better suited to your dog’s size and build than the other options on the market.

Season

When discussing the use of a coat, we usually talk about the bitter cold of winter. However, that’s not the only season where a coat could be beneficial. Depending on how sensitive your dog is to temperature changes, they may benefit from a light jacket during the early spring or late fall seasons. You can also purchase rain jackets to keep your pup dry regardless of the temperature.

Material

To select the best material for your dog’s jacket, you must consider the primary use. Do you need something waterproof for wear outside in the elements? Are you looking for something cozy for your dog to wear around the home? Your dog’s new coat could range from a light fleece sweater-style jacket to a heavily insulated winter coat with a water-resistant or waterproof shell.

Pay attention to breathability, especially in dogs that will be engaging in winter activities like skijoring or hiking while wearing their new coat. Otherwise, your dog may be at risk of overheating, even in winter.

Style

The two key factors to consider regarding style are the ease of use and, of course, the overall appearance of your dog’s new coat.

Consider your dog’s comfort level with clothing. If they regularly wear shirts and sweaters, it may not bother them to have a coat put on. However, if your dog never wears clothing outside of their coat, they may be unsure about it. A coat that must be slipped over your dog’s head could cause anxiety, creating a negative association with the jacket. For dogs that are new to or unsure of clothing, search for a coat that is as easy to put on/take off as possible.

Check the adjustability of the coat. Can you easily adjust the sizing to suit your dog’s body shape? The better the coat fits, the more effective it will be in keeping your dog warm.

Finally, choose a coat that speaks to your dog’s personality. There are so many different coats available in a variety of colors and patterns. You may love the look of a coat with a faux fur collar or one that showcases your favorite sports team. This is the fun part of coat shopping!

Budget

How much are you hoping to spend on a dog coat? Knowing your budget before you start shopping will help you narrow the options. Keep in mind that there is some truth to the saying, “You get what you pay for.” You want to ensure you get a quality coat that will keep your dog warm.

You don’t have to break the bank for a good coat. Keep an eye open for sales. You may be able to take advantage of a Black Friday sale or similar deal. Shopping during the off-season is another excellent way to find a high-quality coat at a fraction of the price.

Other Features

Finally, there are a few other features you may want to consider when shopping for your dog. Do you regularly walk in dark or low-light conditions? If so, search for a coat with reflective details that make them easier to see. Do you hike with your dog during the hunting season? A coat with blaze orange and neon yellow coloring, like a safety vest, will make your dog more recognizable to hunters, decreasing the risk of an accident.

Other features we have seen in dog jackets include:

Sleeves
Rear leg cover (like a snowsuit)
Heating elements
Dog poop bag pockets
Harness integration
Detachable layers for multiple seasons

Our Go-To Dog Coats

While our older two dogs are double-coated and thrive in the winter snow, our youngest pup isn’t as lucky. He wants to be outdoors with the others but will start to shiver after being outside for a while. We have several coats and sweaters for him, but the two we use and trust most are the Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat (as shown in the photo above) and the Hurtta Expedition Parka.

Both coats cover not only his back but also his stomach, which was essential to us. Being smaller, he is often right in the thick of the snowbank when he’s walking. They offer several different adjustment points, allowing us to fit the jacket better to his body and prevent snow from getting into them. This also ensures the jacket will easily move with him as he runs through the snow.

Finally, both Shedrow K9 and Hurtta are well-known for making high-quality pet gear. These coats are a great long-term investment, providing reliable protection from the elements year after year.

Final Thoughts – Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

Does your dog need to wear a coat when the temperatures drop? There is no “right” answer. Instead, you must pay attention to your dog’s body language and how comfortable they are at different temperatures. If you have a short-haired dog, a young puppy, or a senior, there is a good chance that they will be more sensitive to temperature changes and need an extra layer of protection earlier in the season. However, even dogs that generally thrive in the winter may need a coat during the most extreme temperatures.

Pay careful attention to the size and adjustability of each coat to find the best option for your dog. The better the coat fits their body shape, the more effective it will be in keeping the cold air and snow out. Consider other features that could benefit your dog and their lifestyle, like reflective elements for night safety.

Most importantly, look for a coat that makes your dog feel comfortable. This includes a coat that is easy to put on/take off and allows for a full range of motion as they run and play outside in the snow.

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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How Do I Travel with a Small Animal or Reptile?

Whether you’re planning an epic road trip, a family vacation, or simply need to transport your pet for a vet appointment, traveling with a pet always requires careful planning and preparation. Many guides are available, sharing tips and tricks for traveling with dogs and cats, but what about the many other pets we share our hearts and homes with?From choosing the right carrier to ensuring your pet is safe and comfortable throughout your adventure, we’ve thought of it all. This guide will provide essential tips for stress-free travel with your small animal or reptile.Do Reptiles or Small Animals Like Traveling? Before planning your big adventure with your pet by your side, take a moment to ask yourself an important question – will your pet be comfortable traveling? The answer to this is going to vary from pet to pet. While some are comfortable in new environments or around people they don’t know, others will find this experience incredibly stressful. Excess stress can harm your pet’s health and well-being. It has been associated with a weakened immune system, gastrointestinal problems, an increased risk of heart disease, and skin issues. It’s also considered the root cause of many common behavioral problems. If you know that traveling will likely trigger stress or anxiety in your pet, you may want to reconsider your plans. It may not be in their best interest to join you on your next vacation or getaway. Instead, find a reputable pet sitter to care for them while you’re gone in the comfort of their own home. However, there are also situations where this may be unavailable. For example, if you are moving to a new home, your pet will have to make the trip. You may not be able to eliminate all stress, but you can focus on making the situation as comfortable as possible with the following tips and tricks. What is the Best Way to Transport a Reptile? We don’t often see reptiles traveling with their people, and this is for one clear reason – even when a reptile is being transported, the best way to do it is in a secure container that minimizes their outside exposure. Reptiles are far more sensitive to temperature changes than most other pets. Keeping them in a secure but well-ventilated container allows you to maintain as stable a temperature as possible throughout your travels. Before heading out, check the weather. Will you be navigating hot summer temperatures or the cold of winter? Prepare to address these problems in advance by using heat packs or insulating the container they will be traveling in. Introduce your reptile to the container days or even weeks before your trip. Start with very short periods in the container and work up over time, allowing them to get used to being there. This isn’t a quick process, but it will help to lower stress levels during your travels. If traveling with a snake, you can also use a breathable snake bag or secure pillowcase to help them feel safe and secure. What is the Best Way to Transport a Small Animal? The term “small animal” refers to a wide range of animals, each with their own needs. This can significantly impact the best way to travel with your pet. The smallest of our beloved pocket pets, like mice and hamsters, should be transported in a secure cage or carrier. The size and style of the carrier will depend on how you are traveling and the length of your trip. For example, a flight-approved carrier has strict rules you will need to consider. However, if you’re taking a road trip with your pet and have space in your vehicle, you could even transport your pet in a standard cage or habitat, like the Kaytee CritterTrail Simple Start Habitat. These small enclosures may not offer the recommended long-term living space, but they are a great option for traveling in style. Another small animal carrier that is highly recommended is the Kaytee Come Along Carrier. Pay careful attention to anything in the cage/carrier that could be knocked over or thrown around if you are forced to hit the brakes. Secure the carrier or cage where possible to keep it from being thrown in an accident. A sheet or blanket can be placed over the carrier to reduce outside stimuli and create a more comfortable environment, but be sure that proper ventilation is maintained. Consider adding something familiar, like a favorite toy or blanket when setting up the cage or carrier. For some pets, a piece of your clothing, like a t-shirt you have worn with your scent, is also comforting and can help reduce stress. Larger small animals, like rabbits or ferrets, may also be comfortable traveling in a backpack or carrier designed for cats or small dogs. Ensure they will be secure in the carrier with no risk of escape. Even well-behaved pets used to being carried around at home may panic in an unfamiliar situation and try to make a run for it. Harness training your pet before your travels will allow you to add another level of safety and security. Are Reptiles and Small Animals Allowed on Planes? Yes, but with limitations. Many airlines will allow reptiles and small animals to be transported by air. However, most require that these animals be secured in the cargo hold during the flight. You will need to check with the specific airline for requirements in terms of carrier size and other steps for security to avoid your pet escaping and being lost. Some airlines will allow specified small animals to travel in the cabin. For example, Frontier Airlines allows rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters to be “carried on flights within the United States for a one-way directional charge.” If you are traveling internationally, only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin. Pet policies are constantly changing and evolving. To ensure your pet will be welcome on the plane with you, contact the airline you are considering flying with and ask for their most up-to-date rules and regulations to determine what pets are permitted and the carrier requirements.

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According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

Handsome Rescue Cat Hamlet Runs His Own Hotel

Move over, Fido! Who needs a guard dog when you have a feline overseeing the place? At least, that’s how the owners and employees of New York City’s Algonquin Hotel seem to believe…Since the 1930s, the hotel lobby has been carefully supervised by a one-of-a-kind employee. But don’t let his small size fool you – the Algonquin Cat, as they are lovingly called, is an important fixture of the hotel with a long history that most are unaware of.The tradition began when the hotel’s owner, Frank Case, welcomed a stray orange tabby cat named Billy into the hotel. It wasn’t long before Billy could be seen walking the hotel’s elegant halls with his head (and tail) held high. Before long, he was renamed Hamlet (a more literary name suitable for a cat with such big responsibilities), and a legend was born.Since that day, the hotel has never been without a feline greeter. All boy cats that serve in this role are orange tabbies named Hamlet while all girl cats are ragdolls named Matilda. The best part? In honor of the first Hamlet’s origin story, all the hotel’s resident cats are rescues.Today, Hamlet the 8th continues to rule the hotel lobby, an incredible step up from the feral cat colony he once called home.When he’s not working, Hamlet is pampered with daily brushing, fashion show benefits, birthday parties, and other perks. Plus, of course, the steady stream of attention that he receives from the many cat lovers who come to see the hardworking kitty.Just a couple of years ago, the hotel underwent a refresh. The oldest continuously operating hotel in the city was starting to look a little worn. In addition to focusing on maintaining the historic architecture and feel of the hotel, the redesign also focused on finding new ways to accommodate Hamlet VIII and the many cats that will follow in his paw prints.A small cat house was installed by the reception desk. “The idea is, hopefully, he likes it in there so the guests can see him when they first walk in, but he also feels safe,” explained Sara Duffy, a principal at the architecture and interior design firm Stonehill Taylor who carried out the hotel’s refresh.The cat-friendly accommodations didn’t end there. A bookshelf in the hotel’s lounge features cat-friendly nooks and ladders, allowing him to easily move around the room while visiting with various guests. A daybed by the window creates the perfect place for Hamlet VIII to relax and soak up the sun’s rays.“He likes to be up high and look down, to observe but not be pet all the time. But sometimes he likes to come down and participate,” said Duffy when asked about the lounge’s design features.If you’re interested in visiting Hamlet VIII while in New York, the Algonquin Hotel is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues at 59 West 44th Street. Or you can read more about these legendary cats in the book Matilda, the Algonquin Cat.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Microchip Helps Reunite Owners With a Lost Cat 5 Years Later

No bigger than a grain of rice, a microchip can save a life and help reunite a lost pet with their family. The Hall family understands the importance of microchipping after reuniting with a lost cat. Jeff and Cindy Hall were ecstatic after receiving news that their cat, Sam, was discovered in Arkansas five years after he first went missing. Cindy told the local NBC affiliate KARK that they received a phone call that their Russian blue cat was found at a gas station in Arkansas. The two women who have found Sam, have brought him to Jacksonville Animal Hospital. Using the information from Sam’s microchip, the women contacted PAWSitively Cats, an animal rescue organization, where the Halls adopted Sam when he was just 12 weeks old.  The women who found the feline were a part of the Alone 2 Home pet transport crew and were in the middle of transporting two dogs when they came across Sam. “We had him for seven years and then one day he got out. It is a miracle that he walked up to these two women who were in rescue,” said Cindy, adding that PAWSitively Cats called her and Jeff directly. She described the happy occasion as a “beautiful story” saying that reuniting with Sam, whom they had for seven years before he disappeared, was “surreal.”“This story just can’t underestimate the power of a microchip,” she said. “We are so grateful for everyone that was involved.”Sam the cat is now 12 years old and weighs 21 pounds. The rescue organization documented his entire journey on their Facebook page. PAWSitively Cats wrote that someone had picked up Sam and failed to look for his home when he first disappeared from the Hall residence.Before contacting Sam's family, the organization received a message that a microchipped cat had been found in Brinkley, Arkansas. In the meantime, Sam received the royal treatment at the Jacksonville Animal Hospital in Little Rock. The pet transport crew, Alone 2 Home once again assisted with Sam’s travels and brought him to El Paso, where the shelter’s director met up with them to bring Sam back to PAWSitively Cats shelter.  The feline’s family departed from Nevada and traveled to Tuscon, to finally get their beloved feline back.“Once again, we will do everything possible to be sure our cats are safe and can get back home if that is what is best for them,” the rescue posted on Facebook. “They are safe for life with us, one way or another, as long as PAWSitively Cats can continue. You make that possible by donating and sharing our cats’ stories. It really does take a whole community to save lives,” the post added.The Alone 2 Home transport crew also posted photos of Sam and provided additional updates to the shelter, before PAWSitively Cats updated their followers on Sam’s safe return home. “Sam was joyfully reunited with his family this morning,” the shelter later wrote in a post. “They are on their way home to Nevada now, where Sam will join the rest of the family: cats, dogs, and human sisters.” While talking to KARK, Cindy noted that having their cat home makes their family feel complete once again. No one knows how Sam ended up in Arkansas or for how long he had been there. It would be interesting to hear everything Sam went through during the five years he was away from his family. If only cats could talk!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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