At What Temperature Does A Dog Need A Coat?
Temperatures above 10°C (50°F) generally do not require dogs to wear coats or sweaters. When temperatures go below this, small dog breeds, dog breeds with short coats, puppies, senior dogs and other cold adverse breeds will become uncomfortable and need a coat. Other breeds such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes who are bred for cold weather work will not require a dog coat at 10°C (50°F) until the temperature drops much lower. This being said, you do not need to wait for temperature to drop to 10°C (50°F) to put a coat on your dog. Always be on the look out for signs that your dog is feeling cold outside and might need a coat.
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What Dog Breeds Need A Dog Coat?
Dog breeds who are not bred for cold weather work will need a dog coat when temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F). However there are some dogs who are at a higher risk of getting cold easier than other breeds.
These Factors Determine If Your Dog Needs A Coat
1. Dog Breeds With Short or Fine Hair
Dog breeds with short or fine hair will not be able to maintain as much body heat as dogs with thick or long coats. Short haired breeds include Boston Terrier, Greyhound, Dalmatian, Whippet, Vizsla, Weimaraner, Boxer, Ridgeback etc. These breeds should be wearing a good quality dog coat in cold weather.
2. Dog Breeds With Thin Body Types
Dog breeds such as Greyhounds and Whippets have very thin bodies and thus need a coat to go outside. This is because they can not maintain a warm enough body temperature with this body type.
3. Small Dog Breeds & Puppies
Small dog breeds and puppies need a dog coat because they can not make or maintain the same body heat that large or giant dog breeds can. Furthermore, as they are smaller, their legs are going to be shorter and thus their bellies are more likely to brush against snow or frosty grass. This is especially the case for Dachshunds who have tiny legs.
4. Senior Dogs
Senior dogs who have weak immune systems or arthritis will need a dog coat in winter. If your dog has a weaker immune system it is necessary that your dog wears a coat so he is less likely to catch a cold. Dogs with arthritis also need a coat to keep their joints warm and less painful.
Signs That Your Dog Is Cold And Needs A Dog Coat Outside
Dogs show signs that they are cold such as whining, shivering, acting anxious and/or slowing down. Dogs also often search out for a warm place to lie down or curl up with they are feeling cold. If your dog starts to show these signs, you should head inside and put your dog in a nice and warm room with some blankets.
For your next trip outside in similar weather conditions you should put a good quality dog coat on your dog.
Pro Tip: Dog coats and sweaters should only be worn outdoors in cold weather. They should not be worn inside as dogs can easily overheat. They should also be removed to prevent skin irritation and chaffing.
These Dog Coats Are Super Stylish!
If you have realised that your dog needs a coat after reading this article or if you want to add to your dog coat collection, here are the best dog coats available online at the moment! Check them out below.
1. Color-Block Puffer Dog Coat
Find Out The Current Price On Muttropolis Here
2. Powder Hound™ Dog Jacket
Find Out The Current Price On Muttropolis Here
3. Frisco Patterned Floral Insulated Dog & Cat Puffer Coat
Find Out The Current Price On Chewy Here
4. Quinzee™ Dog Jacket
Find Out The Current Price On Muttropolis Here
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