When does your dog need a coat?
Written by Anne |
Most dogs do not need a coat, but extra protection can be sensible in cold or wet weather or during extended periods outdoors. This applies especially to dogs with short or delicate coats, puppies, older or ill dogs and dogs that are not used to the British climate. In this article, you can read when a dog coat may help, which types are available and what to consider to prevent overheating.
When should a dog wear a coat?
Fortunately, the cold in the United Kingdom is generally not too severe. Most dogs receive sufficient protection from the cold through their coat, but there are always exceptions where using a dog coat is sensible. A coat can be useful in the following situations:
- Some breeds have very short coats or little undercoat, so you can expect them to feel the cold more quickly. Examples include Spanish sighthounds, Dalmatians and the Jack Russel Terrier.
- Older and/or ill dogs often have a poorer-quality coat. This can make them more susceptible to the cold.
- Dogs that have recently arrived in the United Kingdom from warmer countries are not used to the colder climate. Consider, for example, adopted dogs from countries such as Greece or Spain. Their coats have not yet had time to adapt to the new climate.
- Puppies have a different coat from adult dogs. This coat is often less well adapted to cold and wet weather.
- Dogs with a skin condition often have a poor-quality coat, which means they may feel the cold more quickly.
- Extended periods in the cold outdoors, for example during a skiing holiday or hunting training, when the dog also swims and regularly has to remain sitting still.
