Top Warm Coats for Dogs in Winter
If you live in the colder states and experience the crazy winter weather, then you must ensure your dog is nice and warm. In fact, he just might need a winter coat!
Just because dogs have fur that does not mean they are safe from hypothermia. Your dog has a normal body temp of about 100.5 to 102 degrees. If a dog’s body temperature dips below 95 degrees, they can die. While there are a small handful of dogs who are a bit better equipped naturally to handle cold weather, many breeds do require a tad additional protection from the elements. It has nothing to do with trying to make your dog look cute, it really is necessary sometimes.
When is it appropriate to consider additional winter protective gear?
- Keep these guidelines in mind as you ponder whether or not your dog needs a coat.
- Senior dogs or dogs with a compromised immune system or any dog with a pressing health concern.
- Dogs with short coats, such as the greyhound, or those that are naturally from warmer environments.
- Dogs that have been shaved – even if they are customarily cold climate dogs, such as the Saint Bernard or Husky.
Toy, teacup and other small or thing dogs as they don’t have enough body fat to keep them safe from the elements.
When shopping for the best fit, because there are many options out there, you really need to try the coat on your pet before buying. The coat needs to be comfortable. This means that it should allow for easy movement and not impede with their ability to breathe or move around. If you live in a more “soggy/wet” environment you will want to look for waterproof attire. Something with more insulation is what you will need when living in a harsher, snow, freezing temp environment.
Not sure where to start? Below are a few options to get you pointed in the right direction.
- PC Panache Polarfleece
- The Snuggie
- Hurtta Ultimate Winter Coat
- Italian Greyhound Winter Coat by Chilly dogs
- The Quinzee Insulated Coat
So, no matter your budget or climate, there’s a coat our there for your dog. Do you have any current favorites? Tell us! We’d love to hear how you keep your dog warm throughout the winter.
