When the fall and winter weather gets here it can be winding, chilly, snowy, wet, icy or any combination of bad weather. A dog’s natural fur coat may not be enough protection. Here’s why you want a coat for your dog and how you might go about selecting the best option.
Dog Coats Offer Protection
Some dogs spend a majority of their time outdoors, naturally love colder climates, or have thick, dense, long coats that enable them to be comfortable outdoors in the winter. Older dogs, dogs with medium or short hair, puppies, and dogs that have recently been ill or have a chronic disease such as osteoarthritis need protection from cold winds, dampness, ice and snow. These dogs are susceptible to frostbite, chapping and hypothermia. It can take over a month for an indoor dog to fully adjust to the drop in temperatures outside.
Outdoor Clothing Options for Dogs
Raincoats offer the best protection in cooler, damp climates. When a dog gets wet, they can quickly begin to loose body temperature. You’ll know because your dog will shiver in response to being cold. Many raincoats for dogs provide protection for their back, neck and sides and are waterproof or water resistant. Raincoats with hoods can be beneficial in protecting ears.
If it’s cold, then you’ll want a coat that is not only waterproof or water resistant, but has some form of a heat retentive lining such as fleece or berber. Barn coats and quilted vests are a good choice. If you just want to protect against the cold than suede jackets and warm sweaters will provide the total coverage and warmth your dog needs.
Since a dog naturally keeps warm by moving, very active outdoor dog coats are now being made of special material that is thin, provides full body coverage, is wind and water proof, and has special heat regulating and Teflon coating materials. These coats are imperative for dogs that go hiking or on long walks with you during the winter season.
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