“I have been eyeing this coat for awhile. I love my labs and decided to give this one a try. So happy I did, as they fit snug; so no slippage like the old one. Not too warm either but just right even for our Colorado weather! The waterproofing keeps my guys dry as they roll in the snow for fun! They look so handsome I had to take their Christmas photo in their new coats!” – mandmacre from Colorado
It’s bitingly cold outside, and it’s time to take the dog for a walk. You bundle yourself up to fend off the frost. But what about your bouncing, tail-wagging buddy by the door? Does he need to top his fur coat off with a fleece dog coat? I mean, aside from the fact that he’ll wear it so handsomely?
Turns out that snow, ice, single-digit temperatures, and wind-chill factors all require special precautions from dog owners who want to keep their canines healthy and cozy in winter. But don’t take it from me. The American Veterinary Medical Association offers particular guidelines for your dog’s winter safety and care.
The veterinarian’s group recommends regularly checking and cleaning your dog’s feet, which can become irritated by rock salt on driveways and icy sidewalks. They warn dog owners against letting their dogs frolic near frozen waterways or ponds. It’s truly dangerous. And even if you’ve got a snow puppy who can’t wait to play in the powder, veterinarians say no dog should be left outside for extended periods of time in winter without shelter because they can suffer frostbite on their ears, tails, and feet.
But what about that dog coat? Yes, even with their protective layer of fur, coats or sweaters are recommended for dogs, especially those that are sensitive to the chill. So keep an eye on your dog. If they start shivering when they are away from hearth and home: they need a coat.
Most in need of winter wear are short-haired dogs and small dogs whose bellies don’t clear the snow. But even long-haired dogs could use a jacket to keep them toasty. Also, keep in mind that the heartiest of hounds can feel the chill toward the end of a long hike.
A spare coat is a good idea too, because putting a dog in a coat wet from an earlier walk actually accelerates heat loss.
When it comes to coats for dogs, warmth, comfort and fit are top considerations. A dog coat should be soft, fit snuggly without being too tight, and is best kept free of decorations that can be chewed off.
For those who wouldn’t dream of “dressing up” their dog, keep in mind that it’s the noblest of dogs that wear clothing every day. Police dogs don Kevlar vests, hunting dogs wear reflective jackets, and sheepdogs wear dog coats to warm them up following a long winter’s day of herding.
So proudly put your beloved companion in a dog coat and enjoy that brisk winter air with your best friend, knowing he’s as comfortably bundled and protected as you are.