At What Temperature Does A Dog Need A Coat?

If you have recently got a new puppy, or moved with your furry friend to a colder climate, you may be considering how to keep your pup warm this winter. You may wonder - at what temperature does a dog need a coat?

There are some guidelines, but different breeds have different tolerances for the cold, and regardless of breed, some pups will feel the cold more and need a coat.

Check With Your Vet

If in doubt, ask your vet about any breed-specific factors and individual needs your dog may have in regards to handling the cold.

What Temperatures Are Generally Safe?

If it is over 10°C (50°F), most dog breeds are safe and do not need to wear coats. Below this, pups that are more vulnerable to the cold will start to feel it and will need dog coats.

If your dog is small, has a short coat, or has a medical condition, she is likely to need a dog coat just below this temperature.

Puppies and senior dogs also usually are more susceptible to the cold and will need a coat for temperatures just under this.

Other Factors

Wet or Windy Weather

Even at 10°C, if it is very wet and rainy or windy, a dog jacket may still be needed.

Length of Time Out

Another factor is how long your dog will be out. For quick trips to the backyard, your dog may be able to manage colder temperatures, unless the weather is extreme, but for walks and longer periods out, a dog coat is needed.

Look For Signs Your Dog Is Cold

Regardless of the exact temperature, if your dog is showing signs of being cold, a dog coat is necessary.

Signs

Shivering, whining, moving very slowly, and looking anxious are all symptoms to watch for.

Your dog may also press tightly against you to look for warmth, or look for other warm places curl up tightly against. Limping and picking up feet is a sign the ground is too cold.

Get Your Dog To Warmth

If you notice any of these behaviours, you should get your dog inside to warm up immediately, and start using a coat for going out.

Signs A Dog Coat Is Too Warm

However, if your dog is panting heavily while wearing a coat and has not been running lots, switch to a lighter one or let your dog go without.

Which Dog Breeds Need Dog Coats The Least?

Some dog breeds are specially suited for cold weather.

Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes don't need a coat or special care until the temperature drops very low. Their thick, double coats provide excellent protection against the cold.

However, most pups do not have this level of protection. It is still important to watch for signs your dog is getting cold, even if he is one of these breeds.

Which Pups Need Dog Coats The Most?

Dogs that aren't a cold weather breed may start to need a dog coat when temperatures drop below 10°C. Certain dogs are more susceptible to the cold, though, and will need a coat sooner, and need a warmer coat.

Dogs With Thin Coats or Short or Fine Hair

Short haired breeds, or those with thin coats or fine hair are unable to trap as much body heat with their fur, compared to pups with thicker coats that more effectively trap the warmth in.

These dogs, such as Chihuahuas, will need a very good dog coat in cold weather, even for quick trips outside, and will need one that provides full coverage from ears to tail.

Thin, Lean Dog Breeds

Dog breeds with very thin bodies, like Whippets and Greyhounds, have very little body fat to help keep them warm. These dog breeds will need warm coats for cold and wet weather.

Older Dogs and Dogs With Certain Conditions

Senior dogs

Senior dogs have a harder time regulating their body heat, so need a little extra help staying warm. As your dog gets older, he will need a good dog coat and need to use it more often.

Conditions

Dogs with a weak immune system, arthritis, or other conditions will also need a warm coat to avoid aggravating painful joints and help them keep comfortable in general.

Puppies and Small Dog Breeds

Small dog breeds and puppies aren't able to maintain their body temperature as much as a larger dog can. Also, a dog with shorter legs, such as a Daschund, will experience their tummies touching and resting in icy snow all the time, so these pups need protection from that.

Get Ready For The Cold Weather

Get your fur baby ready for the winter, with a dog coat that was designed for cold, Canadian winters.

Haute Dawg'sparkas fit even the largest dog breeds. They are flexible enough for transition seasons, with collars that can fold up or down as needed, and detachable hoods.

Keep your pup safe and toasty all fall and winter with a high quality coat that fits all dog breeds.