Dog coats

Question
When does a dog need a sweater or coat?  Most sweaters and coats are made for small dogs.  Is the only issue the size of the dog or if the dog has long or short hair?  My dog is 18 lbs and I have sweaters and coats for him.  When I feel cold, I think he must be cold too, and needs a sweater.  It seems that if a dog spends a lot of time outdoors, his own coat would adapt to the weather. But a lot of dogs are inside most of the time, so do they feel the cold more?

Answer

Hi Vicki,

If your dog spends most of his time in your home, he's no better equipped to spend time outside on a cold winter's day, than you are. Of course, as individuals, some dogs tolerate the cold better than others.

If your particular dog shows sign of being cold outside, such as shivering or standing on three legs, then he should wear a sweater or coat when he's outside.

For my own dogs, they usually wear their sweaters when it's under 50 degrees outside. That's just a rule of thumb I use, because I've observed when they seem to be reacting to the cold. Your dog might be different. Also, when it's at it's coldest, it can be helpful to go on shorter walks, but do them more often during the day.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti