When the temperatures drop during the winter season, we pile on the layers of outdoor clothing. But our dogs don’t need any extra layers because they have their own fur coats… right? Well, maybe not! It’s easy to laugh at the idea of dogs in sweaters but as it turns out, there are instances where your furry friend would certainly appreciate an extra layer.
Today, we’re talking about all things dog sweaters!
Why Do Dogs Need Sweaters?
According to veterinarians at the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), dog sweaters are nothing to be laughed at. In fact, they can be one of the most important accessories that your dog wears all winter.
A dog could need a sweater for a variety of reasons including age, health conditions, climate, breed, outdoor activity level, and even the way their coat is groomed.
Short Haired Breeds and Cold Sensitivity
Unsurprisingly, short haired dog breeds are more likely to require an extra layer during the winter. In theory, they have enough hair to stay warm, but the short length of their coat doesn’t make for very good insulation and can leave them feeling chilly.
The more fur a dog has, the better off they will be during the winter season.
Small Dogs and Heat Loss
Small dog breeds feel the effects of the cold much more quickly than large dog breeds. This is because they have such a disproportionately large surface area to volume ratio. In other words, small dogs have a large surface area of skin to lose heat through, and fewer areas that retain heat, leading to rapid heat loss.
Dog sweaters for small dogs should completely cover the dog’s chest and back to aid in covering as much of that surface area as possible.
Puppies, Seniors, and Dogs with Health Issues
Canine sweaters can be good for puppies, seniors, and dogs with health issues, too. Puppies are vulnerable and need to stay warm. They may lack a proper coat to keep them warm and often haven’t fully developed their muscle mass, which helps maintain body temperature by trapping heat.
As your dog gets older, they might start to develop issues regulating their body temperature, thus requiring some extra help staying warm and comfortable. A dog sweater is perfect for this very purpose. It’s also ideal for dogs, regardless of age, who are sick or have underlying, long-term health problems.
The body of a dog who is sick or recovering from an injury isn’t going to prioritize putting energy into keeping the dog warm, since it’s busy trying to heal. This is where you come to the rescue!
Benefits of Dog Sweaters
The benefits of sweaters for dogs are nearly endless, but here are a few of our favorites.
Temperature Regulation and Warmth
The number one benefit of dog sweaters is temperature regulation and the fact that they keep pups of all shapes, sizes, and ages warm. When you live in a climate that experiences seasons, a sweater to compensate for the drop in temperature is incredibly helpful.
Comfort in Cold Climates and Element Protection
A walk through the park when it’s late evening, early morning, or midway through the winter? Not a problem when your dog has a sweater to wear! Dog sweaters provide comfort when it’s cold. They also act as a barrier against rain, snow, and wind.
Style and Personality Expression
Dog clothes can be used to express your four-legged friend’s unique personality! They come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles, so there’s bound to be one that expresses Charlie’s love of dog bones.
How to Choose the Right Sweater for Your Dog
There’s an array of different types of sweaters that you could purchase for your dog. So how do you find the right one?
Selecting the Best Material
When choosing a dog sweater, take into consideration whether your dog will be exposed to rain, snow, or wind. To combat the elements, go for a jacket that is made of water-resistant fabric. If weather-resistance isn’t a priority, you may opt to focus on comfort. If so, go for a sweater that is made of cotton or fleece instead.
Measuring for the Perfect Fit
Most dog apparel brands size their products via weight going from XS to XXXL, with each size offering a weight range of the dogs that would fit in that size.
To ensure a foolproof fit, though, measure the length of your dog’s back and compare the back length to the length printed on the label of the sweater you’re thinking of buying.
Functional Features to Look For
Make sure your dog’s sweater meets your needs. For example, if your dog will be wearing their sweater for a long time, they’ll likely need to go to the bathroom, so you’ll want to ensure that the sweater doesn’t cover too much of your dog’s bum.
How to Help Your Dog Adjust To Wearing A Sweater
Tips for First Time Sweater Wearers
Choose a sweater that is easy to put on/take off
Introduce your dog to the sweater before they are expected to wear it
Make your dog wear the sweater for shorter periods of time at first
Use positive reinforcement
Positive Reinforcement Techniques
PetMD recommends positive reinforcement for dogs who are beginning to wear sweaters. Positive reinforcement is, essentially, rewarding your pup for wearing their sweater. This is done by creating a positive association between wearing the sweater and a positive reward like a tasty treat or some extra belly rubs.
When Should Dogs Wear Sweaters?
Outdoor Walks in the Cold/Snow
When it’s cold outside, but Fido still stands at the door waiting for his daily walk, it’s a good idea to put a sweater on him. Days that call for rain or snow might also call for the dog sweater.
Indoors When It’s Chilly
Sometimes it’s chilly in the house. When it is, you can keep your dog warm by putting their sweater on them.
Using A Puppy Sweater Safely
When outfitting your pup with a puppy sweater, be sure to do it safely!
Avoid Overheating
Make sure that the sweater is made of a breathable fabric and that it isn’t too hot for the environment or occasion. Dogs can overheat easily.
Monitor for Signs of Discomfort
Signs that your dog is uncomfortable in their jacket or sweater can include:
Restlessness
Pacing
Not wanting to move or moving differently in their sweater
Panting
Excessive licking
Stylish Sweater Ideas
Here are a few awesome ideas for your dog’s next sweater.
Holiday/Seasonal
Take advantage of holidays and the changing of seasons! Consider buying holiday/seasonal sweaters for your dog. Candy canes, Santa Claus and stockings for Christmas. Tulips, rabbits, and colorful eggs for Easter.
Classic Cable-Knit
Classic cable knit designs will help your pet look sleek and stylish, while also keeping them warm. When it comes to outdoors wear for dogs, there’s no going wrong with this style choice.
Sporty and Functional
Prepare your dog for a day on the basketball court by dressing them up in a sporty and functional sweater. Functional sweaters could have pockets for carrying small things, and be decorated with sporty stripes and mesh detailing.
Conclusion
Dog and clothing aren’t typically two things that are thought to have an association, but in the case of dog sweaters they definitely do. Sweaters are versatile and can be used by any dog, but the very young, very old, very small, and sick are almost certainly going to benefit from one.
With a variety of materials, sizes, and styles to choose from, every dog should have at least one sweater to wear on chilly days. Luckily, dog sweaters are a relatively affordable way that we can ensure our dogs are taken care of.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it bad for dogs when people make them wear sweaters?
No, sweaters aren’t bad for dogs. As long as they fit well and allow the dog to breathe and move freely, they are perfectly safe.
How effective are dog sweaters at protecting them from the cold?
When the material of the sweater is appropriate for the climate in question, dog sweaters can be incredibly effective at keeping dogs warm.
Should you leave a dog sweater on dogs unsupervised?
No, you should not. The sweater could get snagged and become a choking hazard.
How do you know if your dog needs a sweater when going outside in cold weather?
In general, if it’s cold enough that you need a sweater, your dog might need one, too. Other telltale signs include your dog shivering, frost on the ground, and so on.
