Contrary to popular belief, the purpose of a dog coat is not just about making your dog look stylish, they are also a fantastic way to for keep your four-legged friend warm and dry.
Your dog’s breed, size and age are all things to take into consideration when it comes to purchasing a dog coat. Why not take a look at our guidance below to see if your dog can really benefit from an extra layer during the cooler months.
Age
In particular, puppies and older dogs both tend to feel the cold much more. Puppies are still growing and are not fully developed so hold little body fat and senior dogs tend to lose body fat as they get older. In both cases, this makes these dogs vulnerable and even with a coat, they should also only go out in cold weather for short periods of time.
Breed
Large, long-haired breeds such as Huskies and Retrievers can adapt well to colder weather however small or shorter-haired dog breeds like Whippets, Greyhounds, Pugs, Chihuahuas and Terriers can feel the cold very quickly, as too can Dachshunds, since they are so low to the ground. These breeds will certainly benefit from the extra warmth of a coat during Autumn and Winter.
Getting the size right
A coat should cover the length of your dog’s back, from the base of their neck to the bottom of their tail. The coat should be snug enough around your dog’s neck to keep the warmth in but not so tight as to cause discomfort.
It’s important to measure your dog correctly to get the correct fit. Make sure that your pup is standing (remember to have treats available to reward your pup for keeping still!) and use a soft measuring tape. Here at Mutts & Hounds, when measuring for a dog coat, we advise you to measure your pups overall length, chest and neck (in order of importance). You can view our measuring guide here.
All of our coats have adjustable chest and neck fastenings to ensure they are easy to put on and comfortable for your dog.
Fabric type
Dog coats come in many different fabrics, so it can be hard to know what’s suitable for your four-legged friend.
Tweed coats - Provide warmth and durability and are perfect for dry, cold days.Waxed cotton coats – Great for wet weather, providing a waterproof layer for full protection from the elements.
Quilted coats - Thermally lined for added cosiness.
A fleecy collar can help shield your dog from cold winds, keeping their neck area warm and snug.