Are Dog Sweaters Really That Important?

Wind, rain, sleet, and snow. We’re into the last quarter of the year and winter is beginning to set in around us. We don’t know about you, but we love the cold weather. At this time of year, we enjoy curling up in front of a fire with a mug of hot chocolate as the snow falls outside.

What about your furry friend? Do they enjoy winter as much as you do? Your dog might own a winter coat that they wear all year-round, but does it keep them warm during cold spells? We’ve all seen owners dress their dogs up in fashionable sweaters during the winter months, but are they necessary? Does your dog need extra clothing, or will they be comfortable outdoors without it? Will your pup even want or wear a dog sweater?!

Why Dogs Need a Sweater

Dogs aren’t immune to the elements of extreme cold and heat. They’re living animals with a nervous system that responds to their environmental conditions. When it’s hot outside, your dog pants to keep cool. So, if they’re sensitive to the heat, they must be sensitive to the cold, right?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors: What kind of breed do you own? How cold is it where you live? Does your dog enjoy playing outdoors or prefer staying inside with you?

What Breeds Benefit from a Sweater?

If you own a Husky, then the chances are that they’re not going to need a sweater during the wintertime. These dogs, and other breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, American Eskimo Dog, and Chows, are born with their winter coat – adding a sweater to their wardrobe will end up overheating their body.

Owners of breeds with short hair or thin fur coats may want to invest in a sweater for their pooch during the cold weather season. Pit Bulls, Mastiff breeds, and small dogs like Pomeranians and Pugs have shorter hair and very little undercoat. The cold weather gets to these breeds, and they need a sweater to stay warm during walks and other outdoor activities.

Location and Environmental Factors

Whether or not your dog needs a sweater depends a lot on the location of where you live. If you reside in the Northern States of the U.S, where it frequently snows during the wintertime, then a dog sweater is a must-have item for your furry friend.

Those owners living in regions around the southern states won’t have to worry about ordering their dog a sweater this winter.

Types of Dog Sweaters

Dog sweaters come in various styles, sizes, and colors. There’s a garment to suit any breed and any dog’s personality!

For dogs living in colder climates, keep your pet warm and dry with a fleece-lined sweater featuring moisture resistant fabric. This type of garment is essential for dogs that enjoy playing outdoors.

Dogs that feel the cold but spend their days indoors might need just a thin wool sweater to keep warm.

Sizing the Sweater for your Dog

Choose the right size of sweater for your pooch. For a perfect fit, measure their chest and neck, then match the measurements to the sizing chart offered by your retailer. Purchasing a sweater that’s too small for your dog may constrict their circulation and make them feel uncomfortable. However, too big a size feels irritating against their skin, and they’re likely to do everything in their power to take it off – including chewing it to pieces.

In short, while not every dog will need a sweater, it might be a good thing to add to your dog gear collection to help your pup stay warmer in the winter.