As winter descends, millions of dog owners find themselves facing a difficult decision. Do their animals require coats to stay warm? Louis, one of our wonderful ITALIAN GREYHOUND PUPPIES, just happens to be one of those breeds that becomes cold-sensitive as the temperature starts dropping. Owner Shaun Naylor says that for Louis, “Definitely needs a jacket” when the temperatures drop. This feeling of concern is shared across the country by owners of small dogs who fear that their little friends can’t handle the elements during the winter months.
Not all dogs need jackets. Veterinarians agree that the answer to fido needing a jacket is most closely related to her size and breed. Dr. Hazel is an associate professor at the University of Adelaide. An expert on animal welfare, behavior and ethics, Montie notes that little dogs tend to require additional warmth.
Understanding Small Dog Needs
Dr. Hazel believes even smaller dogs below 5 kg need to be dressed in jackets. It’s critical to their comfort when they do venture outside in winter conditions. Breeds like Italian greyhounds, French bulldogs, chihuahuas, toy poodles, pugs, Maltese, and Yorkshire terriers typically benefit from extra insulation during winter months.
Shaun Naylor notices this need firsthand with Louis, stating, “He gets really, really cold as soon as the temperature drops.” To protect from the cold Shaun has been putting Louis in a knitted sweater on their early morning walks. This preventative measure is a reminder that we should always evaluate how comfortable your dog might be in the colder months.
Dr. Hazel emphasizes that “smaller dogs, because their body surface area to body mass has a different ratio, they will get cold.” She further notes that “the smaller the dog, the more important that would be.” Therefore, pet owners need to stay alert while ensuring their dogs’ comfort when in low temperatures.
The Role of Jackets in Cold Weather
Mount Gambier veterinarian Teresa Priddle advises that jackets should not only be worn but regularly checked for proper fit and wear. She underscores the need to “make it a point to check daily that it’s fitting correctly and there are no rub marks. This allows dogs to be comfortable and safe when wearing their jackets.
Dr. Hazel couldn’t be happier about it. She suggests that kids try their jackets on and take them off each day to test the fit. She points out that any dog under 10 kg or 22 lb will probably appreciate an outerwear layer when it’s chilly outside. With the right clothing, these little dogs are able to be warmer and more comfortable. We want to keep them warm but not too warm.
Dr. Hazel warns against making your dog wear things it hates or for which you have to wrestle it into position. “I don’t ever, ever, ever recommend forcing a jacket on a dog that wasn’t into it,” she says. “Well, if you had done that, every time you did it, it’s going to get more and more difficult to do.” Knowing what a dog likes is key to making sure every visit is a tail wagging success.
Alternatives to Jackets
Specifically, jackets are effective at keeping small dogs warm. If your dog must sleep outside at night, Dr. Hazel does stress that it is imperative to have a proper kennel. Having a place “where they can stay warm and have some town” eleventh is crucial to their safety. Considerations Providing a kennel requires some thought and planning to ensure that the shelter given is suitable and safe.
Even Shaun Naylor, owner of new small breed-friendly shop Love & Leashes, has a different winter schedule. For instance, Shaun likes to keep his Maltese cross-chihuahua, Dylan, warm in chunky jackets. Shaun appreciates Louis’s attachment to his jacket. As art as well as function, he explains, “When it’s cold, Louis will come up to you and very distinctly indicate that he wants his jacket. This serves to emphasize the connection between pets and their owners as they endure the struggles of winter side-by-side.
