Winter Wear for Dogs
Winter weather wear for dogs is more than just a fashion statement. It serves a very important purpose and that is to keep your dog safe. Providing your dog with winter weather wear may garner a few raised eyebrows from some, shall I say, uneducated people, but who cares. The goal of winter weather wear for dogs is to protect your dog against the dangers of cold weather. Ice, ice melt and low temperatures are all dangerous to dogs.
Myth: Dogs have fur so they don’t get cold like humans do.
False! Dogs need just as much protection from the winter weather as humans do and sometimes more! Dogs can be victim to hypothermia and frostbite just like humans.
Some dogs that have heavier coats and thicker fur are less susceptible to the dangerous of low temperatures and ice. However, that does not mean they shouldn’t be protected. They will just be able to tolerate a little outdoor time than other dogs. Furthermore, no dog, even those with thicker coats and fur should ever be left outside in freezing temperatures.
Other dogs are more susceptible to the cold weather. Dogs with shorter hair have much less protection that their longer haired counterparts. They are much more apt to “feel” the cold when they are out in it. Dogs that are elderly or sick also have much more trouble dealing with the colder temperatures no matter if they are short or long haired. Additionally, many illnesses such as kidney disease and heart disease make it harder for dogs to regulate their body temperatures. This makes them more at risk when being exposed to plummeting winter temperatures.
The Best Winter Weather Coats for Dogs
Hurtta Summit Parka
The Hurtta Summit Parka offers protection to your dog’s most important muscle groups while out in the cold, making it a great choice for winter weather wear for dogs. This coat also protects your dog’s chest and belly areas. The outer shell is waterproof making it great for rainy days and melting snow. The houndtex coating makes the parka warm yet breathable. It’s not too bulky which won’t prohibit movement either. The length of the coat, the belt and collar are all adjustable, which is great because one size never fits all, right? The Hurtta website gives sizing recommendations based on breed, which gives you a great starting point when trying to decide on size. They also provides a size chart as well.
Ruffwear Stumptown
For everyday warmth, the Ruffwear Stumptown is great go – to for winter weather wear for dogs. It’s durable and insulated to keep dogs warm on their everyday walks and adventures. There’s a leash portal on the back, making this a great choice for dogs that wear harnesses. The durability of the jacket also makes it a great choice for the more adventurous dog. With the DWR finish, your dog will stay dry and the 120g polyester insulation provides warmth in cold temperatures. The side release makes it easy to put on and take off, too.
Ruffwear Powder Hound
For cold weather activities, the Ruffwear Powder Hound is more suitable winter weather wear for dogs. This jacket will provide warmth during outdoor activities while not interfering with your dog’s range of motion. The 250g high loft insulation gives keeps your dog warm and the nylon-spandex with four-way stretch technology makes moving around a breeze. The added sleeves of this jacket helps retain heat. The reflective trim increases visibility thereby keeping your dog safe.
Alpine Extreme Weather Puffer Coat
The Alpine Extreme Weather Puffer coat is another suitable cold weather. This option is a more budget friendly option for winter weather wear for dogs. These coats are great for everyday outings as longer outdoor jaunts. This coat comes in many colors if you’re into matching. It’s lined with fleece and filled with insulation to keep your dog toasty while out. The exterior is waterproof which protects your dog from rain and snow, while preventing water from seeping through. The one buckle design makes dressing your dog simple, too.
Frisco Dog Fleece Vest
The Frisco Dog Fleece Vest is a lighter weight option for dogs who need less insulation. It also makes a great layering piece for dog who need even more warmth under their coat. Some dogs even benefit from wearing a fleece like this one indoors if the human member of the household keeps the temperature a little too low for Fido’s liking. The pullover design of this fleece provides an easy on/off experience for dogs that are reluctant to being dressed. Fleece never disrupts ease of movement so this vest will never interrupt activity.
More Winter Weather Accessories
My Busy Dog Water Resistant Dog Shoes
Dog shoes, or boots, protect a dog’s paws during all seasons, including winter. Cold, ice and mud, salt, and sand can be problematic for a dog of any age. The My Busy Dog Water Resistant Shoes are a high quality option. They have traction that protect against slipping on ice during the winter and don’t forget the salt that we put down on the ice. Salt can damage your dog’s paws and cause a problem for dogs when they come indoors as they tend to lick or chew on their paws to clean them off. The shoes are easy to put on and take off as the shoe has a wide split seam that expands. The two adjustable straps make tightening the boots simple and are easy to adjust to the width of a dog’s little, or big legs. These are also water resistant, which will keep your dog’s paws dry and warm this winter and beyond. Their Paw for Paw Program makes purchasing from this USA business even more enticing because each purchase helps a dog in need.
Snood Dog Winter Ear Protector
Suitable for dogs living or visiting extreme climates, the Snood Dog Winter Ear Protector is a popular choice. Ears are susceptible to frostbite just a human’s are. Protecting a dog’s ears with the Snood Winter Ear is just another added level of warmth that will also give you, your pet’s guardian piece of mind.
Paw Balm
Help protect your dog’s palms against the ice. Ice tends to dry out paws and the salt does damage, too. Applying paw balm before and after your dog’s walk will help minimize any discomfort. Contrary to popular belief, the pads on a dog’s paws are very sensitive and susceptible to injury. There are a few different options on the market. One favorite is Musher’s Secret. Made with vitamin E, it helps to moisturize paw pads and aid in the healing process of dry, cracked or otherwise damaged paws. Paw Nectar is another option for protecting and healing paws.
Protect your dog from the cold weather this winter by considering investing in winter weather wear for dogs. Doing so will not only protect your dog at whatever stage of life he is currently in, it will also make it possible for you and your dog to enjoy more outdoor activities together this winter. Winter weather wear options are truly endless so if you find your dog is not happy with any of these options, keep looking for what works best for him and fits with your lifestyle. What are your favorite winter weather wear options for dogs?
