Dog blog
How do you know if your dog needs winter clothes?
With the arrival of the winter months, one of the most important questions for dog lovers arises: Should I get my dog winter clothes? While the answer may seem obvious, don't be fooled.
Knitted, waterproof, with fur and ultra fashionable. There are countless dog winter clothes on the market that are just begging to be purchased. Still, don't be tempted by their design and think twice if you have a dog that really needs winter clothes. Three factors play an important role in the decision - the size of your dog, the breed and the temperature outside. At the same time, you must also take into account the health of your four-legged friend or his personality, that may refuse winter clothes even in almost Siberian temperatures!
Who needs winter clothes?
It probably comes as no surprise that the most important group of dogs that should wear clothes in the winter months are small and short-haired breeds. These dogs can get cold within minutes, which can lead to health problems. Of course, even in this respect it is important to take into account the context of the situation. If you are going to walk your dog outside the house for five minutes, then you don't need to force him to put clothes on. On the other hand, long walks require good clothes.
Also take into account the temperature outside. It is generally agreed that dogs should wear winter clothes when the temperature drops below 7°C.
Winter clothes for outdoor dogs too?
It is by no means true that larger dogs cannot wear winter clothes. However, if you live with a dog that spends most of his time outside, then you should know that he gets "hairy" in the winter months. This means that his coat will adapt to the cold and increase in volume. However, it is important to point out that even larger breeds deserve winter clothes when you travel with them to the mountains, go to the training ground or do sports together (e.g. running). Even a dog's muscles warm up during fast movement, so it is important that he is not exposed to cold outdoor weather after the activity is over.
At home? Naked!
Dog keepers often make the mistake of leaving their pets in their clothes at home. Yes, you may not want to dress and undress your dog all the time, but remember that a dog can easily overheat in a room. Ideally, remove the clothes as soon as you get home from your walk.
The hunt for the perfect clothes
We've already indicated that you can find an endless number of dog clothes on the market today, in a variety of cuts, colours and design features. Still, we should look first and foremost at functionality, and only then at appearance. Winter clothes are therefore required to protect sensitive areas such as the hips, back, large limb muscles and kidneys. That is why it is important to choose clothes that fit your four-legged friend like a glove. Ideally, get clothes that will keep your dog warm from the neck to almost the tail. On the other hand, immediately discard clothes from your shopping cart that end halfway down the back.
Concentrate also on the choice of suitable material. From a practical point of view, we recommend that you give preference to waterproof materials that will protect your dog from falling snow and rain.
Knitted sweaters can get wet and subsequently make your dog cold, so only use them on dry days. If you are unsure about choosing the right clothes, ask for advice in one of our stores or your vet. It is definitely not worth underestimating the selection and take the first clothes that catch your eye.
