Winter Dog Attire

We all know the frustration of leaving the house and realizing you didn’t bundle up enough for the cold, but have you considered what your furry friends must feel like, too? Many people believe that dressing up a dog is only intended for fashion, but there are far more practical roles that clothing can play in a dog’s safety and wellbeing.

For higher-risk dogs, frigid winter walks can take quite a toll on their health– oftentimes without owners being aware of it. Some factors that may qualify a dog as high-risk include small size, thin fur, a weakened immune system, arthritis, senior dogs, and puppies not yet adjusted to the cold. For these types of dogs, being exposed to temperatures under 30 degrees Fahrenheit can shock their systems, potentially leading to symptoms of cold intolerance. If you notice your dog shivering, tucking their tail between their legs, whining excessively, being reluctant to move, or holding their paws in the air, this may be a sign to bundle up your pup!

At this point, you may be wondering: what exactly can I do to keep my pet warm? Well, depending on the temperature, duration of time outside, and category of outdoor activity, you have a couple options that may best suit your specific circumstance.

In temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit, most dogs will be perfectly comfortable without protective clothing. However, as that thermometer drops into the low to mid-30s, you may want to consider dressing your high-risk dog in an insulated sweater, jacket, or vest. When things really begin to get frosty in the 20s – especially if snow or ice is on the ground – it might be wise to add on a set of booties to prevent snow build-up on their precious paws. If it’s going to be a longer, stationary trip, you might opt to provide your dog with a soft blanket to help retain warmth. In the worst-case scenario of temperatures below 15 degrees, it is recommended to keep your pet inside if possible. If they must use the bathroom, keep the potty break quick to be as considerate as possible to your animal’s comfort.

Putting the cautionary aspects aside, you can’t deny that a dressed-up dog is highly adorable, even if the accessories aren’t exactly functional. So, let’s wrap up by offering some cute and trendy options to keep your pooch looking chic!

As long as your dog is comfortable with it, adding a comfy hat is a less common (but fantastically fashionable) choice. There are tons of options when it comes to hats for dogs. There are classic beanies that tie under the chin, balaclavas with maximum coverage, and of course, you can’t forget a pom-pom on top! One last charming option is wrapping your dog in a cushy scarf. Wool is an ideal material to retain heat, and if you’re crafty, this can act as the perfect knitting project.

All in all, there are endless reasons to invest in protective pet garments. Go pick up some cozy clothes today, and your loving dog will be snug as a bug.