Winter Dog Clothes – Yes or No?
November 25, 2024
As the temperature drops and we pull on our own jumpers and coats, many pet owners in Northamptonshire wonder whether their furry companions should do the same. But is dressing up pets in winter clothing a necessary precaution or is it more about fashion than function? As a veterinary practice, we often get asked this question, so let’s look at both the pluses and minuses.
If your pet is struggling more than usual in the cold and you are concerned, book a winter health check with our vets in Daventry.
Book a winter pet health check
Things to consider.
1. Protection Against the Cold: Some pets are more susceptible to the cold than others, particularly short-haired breeds, smaller dogs, and senior pets. These animals often struggle to maintain their body heat in colder weather, making a warm coat or jumper beneficial for comfort and health. A well-fitted coat can help keep dogs warm during winter walks in Northamptonshire.
2. Health Issues and Recovery: Dogs with certain health conditions, like arthritis, can benefit from additional warmth during winter. Our team at Daventry Vets share that a snug jumper can alleviate some discomfort by helping maintain body temperature and reducing stiffness. Similarly, dogs recovering from surgery or with a low body weight might also benefit from extra warmth provided by a coat.
3. Outdoor Activities: If your dog is active outdoors, a waterproof jacket can protect against rain and snow, preventing their fur from getting wet and making them cold. Or if your dogs are like our vet Sarah’s then they will be in water whatever the weather so there is no point in a coat on the walk and it’s better to dry them and put a coat on afterwards.
4. Not All Pets Need Them: Most dogs with thick, double-layered coats (like Huskies or German Shepherds), are naturally equipped to handle colder weather. These breeds can easily overheat if dressed in additional layers, making clothing uncomfortable and unnecessary.
5. Restricted Movement and Discomfort: If the clothing isn’t well-fitted or appropriate for your pet’s body shape, it can restrict their movement with potential for injury or skin irritation. Our vets in Daventry share that some dogs may also feel anxious or distressed when wearing clothing, leading to a negative experience, so it’s always best to start putting the coat on for short periods and using treats or play to make it a positive experience.
6. Behavioural and Safety Concerns: Dogs especially puppiess may try to chew or remove clothing, risking injury or ingestion of fabric. So they may need to be supervised.
7. Body Language and Social Signals: Clothing can obscure a pet’s body language, making it harder for other animals to interpret their signals. This could lead to misunderstandings or conflicts with other dogs.
So, what’s the verdict? As vets, we believe the decision to use winter clothes on dogs should depend on their individual needs and put their wellbeing and happiness first.
With dogs, consider their breed/coat type and if they need extra layers, their age and health, and if a coat will help them in bad weather. Daventry Vets’ team also advise observing your dog’s reaction to clothing and if they show signs of distress, it’s best to avoid it. Ensure your dog is supervised when wearing clothes to avoid injury and when choosing a dog coat or jumper, ultimately, it should prioritise function over fashion.
Have more questions? Get in touch with our vet practice in Daventry – we’re happy to help you make the best choices for your pet this winter!
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Book a winter pet health check
