DO DOGS NEED DOG CLOTHES?

This is a puzzling question to many people, most of who laugh at the idea of dressing up a dog. Some dog owners are also skeptical about wearing clothing on their dogs. However, a few of them, have noticed the violent shiver that courses through the bodies of their canine friends during winter, but don’t know what to do about it. If you belong to this category of dog owners, there is good news: it is okay for your pet to wear dog coats.

Sure enough, a dog’s natural coat provides insulation and protection from the weather. But some dogs like puppies, senior dogs, short-haired breeds, etc. may need additional warmth in winter due to their lighter layers of animal hair or fur. This article is about to explain the truth about dressing up your dog for the weather outside.

WHY SHOULD DOGS WEAR COATS?

Dog clothes are great garments for keeping most short-haired breeds and small dogs warm and dry in winter. Chihuahuas, Labradors, Greyhounds, and even Norfolk Terriers are susceptible to the elements, so they need to wear a dog coat or sweater to stay happy and warm in cold weather.

Not all dogs are genetically wired for the cold environments in which they find themselves. Such dogs will always be uncomfortable in the freezing temperatures of winter. Dogs with medical conditions may also benefit from extra warmth.

DO ALL DOGS NEED DOG COATS?

Not all dogs need to wear dog coats. For instance, breeds such as the Pomeranians, Siberian Huskies, Akitas, Newfoundlands, and even Cairn Terriers cope exceptionally well in cold weather as a result of their undercoats. This is why you must conduct enough research for your breed to determine whether or not a coat is necessary.

8 REASONS WHY YOUR DOG SHOULD WEAR DOG CLOTHES

1. Cold weather and seasons to keep them warm; Cold weather is an obvious one. For dogs with thin or light coats of fur, the harsh cold of certain climates just aren’t manageable without a good coat or sweater. Exactly how cold your dog gets depends on the breed, size and age;
2. Dog clothes provide an extra layer for short coated dogs; Smaller, lighter, and less furry breeds are more comfortable in a sweater or a coat. The same goes for dogs with fresh haircuts, or dogs who are aging or sick. Dogs that are made for the cold have an extra layer of insulating fur built in;
3. Help with anxiety: Besides keeping your dog warm, clothing can also help with anxiety. The sense of security that comes from a snug-fitting vest like the Thundershirt can be soothing for anxious dogs. Next time there’s a thunderstorm in the forecast, or your town is planning a big fireworks show, try an anxiety vest. It can make all the difference in ensuring that your dog feels safe and comforted;
4. Cold temperatures are harsh, especially on seniors; One of the most obvious benefits of putting your pooch in an outfit is to keep your dog comfortable no matter the weather. This is a no-brainer in the wintertime, when many breeds who aren’t built for low temperatures easily get cold;
5. Shedding: Dog clothes protects your stuff from excess shedding;
6. Shield against the elements: Regardless of the season, there are always elements to face, such as wind, rain, snow, and sunlight. All of these can harm your cuddly canine, so take the precautionary measure of using protective gear for your dog just as you would for yourself. For example, a dog rain coat or a dog winter coat is perfect for a rainy and cold days with moderate temperatures;
7. Protect fur and skin: Sunlight isn’t the only thing you need to guard your pet’s skin against. The great outdoors has lots of potential irritants. Bugs are at the top of the list, particularly if you go hiking, camping, or hunting in wooded areas. In place of or addition to bug spray, don your doggy in an insect-repelling shirt for maximum protection. Clothing also prevents burrs, dirt, allergens, and other natural debris from getting into your dog’s fur. This will make bathing and grooming so much easier and will help keep your house clean;
8. Increase overall safety: Everyday activities also require protective gear. Nighttime walks are dangerous for pedestrians, so get reflective gear for your furry friend as well. No matter what you’re doing or when, bright colors and reflective materials are always best to increase visibility. You’ll have an easier time finding your dog in the water, at the park, or among the trees, and others will be able to avoid hurting your beloved pet when it’s easy to spot.

DOG TIPS YOU MUST KNOW

• Not all breeds can become accustomed to wearing dog coats. A few dogs find it extremely uncomfortable. If you notice that your pooch is uneasy as a result of wearing a dog coat, do not force it. However, you can allow your canine friend to wear the dog coat – for a few minutes at a time – around your home, then build it up from there;
• Dog coats are not explicitly meant for small dogs. Greyhounds, Whippets, etc. can also benefit from wearing a well-crafted dog coat to keep warm as well;
• Make sure you measure your canine companion accurately before buying a dog coat. A dog coat that doesn’t fit well or that is too close-fitting may hamper your pet’s mobility;
• Ensure that your dog’s coat does not have tags, hanging zippers, hooks, buttons or parts that could irritate your pooch or get caught. Your dog may also chew off or swallow these appendages, so be careful when deciding on the type of dog coat to buy.

Okay, but how about booties? These are safer. Go for it, especially if you regularly walk a neighborhood with salted icy sidewalks. Not only are they freezing cold, but they’re also potentially harmful.

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