Dog clothes – decoration, nonsense or necessary?
You might think that dog clothes are just an excuse to dress your dog up nicely – but in fact, extra insulation is necessary for many dogs. As a rule of thumb, we recommend giving your dog a jacket when the temperature drops below 5 degrees (if they need clothes at all).
There are many dog breeds that need clothing in the form of a jacket, winter coat, raincoat or sweater to keep warm. It primarily depends on the dog's coat, undercoat, age and health.
In addition, there are other good reasons to wear dog clothes – such as better visibility, less wet fur and less dirt after walks.
There are two good reasons why dogs shouldn't freeze:
- Dogs that are cold get sick more easily – just like people.
- It's simply uncomfortable to be freezing. Your dog doesn't like it either.
See our entire selection of dog clothes here .
5 dog breeds we know have an increased need for clothing
Dog breeds without undercoats need a jacket
For example, bichon frise, coton de tulear, shih tzu, lhasa apso, maltese and havanese. Poodles and poodle mixes such as cockapoo, cavapoo, maltipoo and labradoodle typically do not have an undercoat and therefore freeze more easily.
If a dog does not have an undercoat, it has a harder time keeping warm during the cold months. The breeds that do not have an undercoat are often the ones that do not shed.
See all dog jackets here
See dog clothes for French bulldogs here
See dog clothes for greyhounds here
Small dogs and puppies may need dog clothes
For example, Yorkshire Terrier, Papillon, Griffon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua and Dachshunds.
Smaller breeds often have difficulty keeping warm because their body weight does not produce enough energy and heat – and they are closer to the ground, where it is colder.
Small puppies can also have difficulty regulating their body temperature. A sweater can be a good solution until they are older and better able to keep warm on their own.
See dog clothes for small dogs here
See dog clothes for dachshunds here
Older dogs benefit from a blanket
Older dogs are more sensitive to the cold and can develop arthritis or stiff joints more easily. Their ability to regulate body temperature declines with age, and a warm blanket or jacket can make a big difference – especially for dogs with osteoarthritis, dysplasia or other joint problems.
Other benefits of dog clothes
Snow, rain and sleet can be a challenge – especially for large or long-haired dogs who drag it all in. The belly and legs easily get wet and dirty, and snow can clump in the fur like little ice balls. A jacket protects against moisture and dirt and makes it faster to dry the dog after the walk.
