There are more than 400 dog breeds in the world. We have been breeding dogs to fit our numerous purposes, from helping us hunt to being our family dogs and lap dogs. Depending on where the dog originates and what job it will be doing, dogs have different types of coats. Whippets and high-energy sporting dogs such as Vizslas have short smooth coats. On the other hand, Huskies and Tibetan Mastiffs have thick double coats to withstand harsh cold climates. Now, what happens when you bring a Whippet to a cold place? Or when you shave the Poodle and you know the winters get below 20°F (-6°C)? Well, they need a good coat and some comfortable boots.
1. Dog Coats
The main winter dog equipment is a coat. We say coat, but it can actually be:
- Jackets
- Sweaters
- Coveralls
Whatever you choose, it is important for them to be insulated and if it’s a jacket or a coverall, they need to be waterproof. These dog clothes are a good choice when it’s raining too. Depending on how cold it is and whether it is dry or wet outside, you can choose a sweater or a coat/jacket. Sweaters are a good choice during dry winter seasons. However, if you want your dog to be fully covered, coveralls are a great choice. This is especially important for short dogs whose bellies easily touch the ground.
2. Dog Boots
Not all dogs need boots, even if they need a coat. Generally speaking, when it is below freezing, they need boots or socks. There are two choices in winter – socks or boots. The better option during snow or rain is, of course, boots. But, socks are more comfortable for dogs to wear. There is also a combination of socks with insulated rubber bottoms to keep the dog warm and safe on icy surfaces.
3. Dog Goggles
While it is not necessary for a dog to wear goggles, if you know your dog has lots of eye problems or eye sensitivity, goggles are a great asset. Dog goggles are a great protection from UV rays, dust, sand, wind, and other irritants. If you are going on a hike in a high-altitude place, you can put goggles on your dog. However, as mentioned, they are not necessary. They are recommended for dogs with known eye sensitivity or eye problems. A lot of owners also put goggles on their dogs during car rides to avoid any accidents (bugs, stones, twigs, glass, etc. hitting a dog in the eye)
4. Paw Protection Wax
Wax is a great way to keep the dog’s paws safe. It is recommended to apply the wax two or three times a week. You should apply the wax on the paw pads and in between the toes. That way you prevent snow from accumulating. Also equally important is to clean the paws after returning back home. This way we clean any salt or chemicals that might get stuck on the paws. You can also apply wax and use the dog socks or boots for extra protection during cold winter days.
5. Backpacks
This is not a necessity, but a useful idea if you plan on walking for a long time and you’ve got a small breed dog, such as a Boston Terrier or a Frenchie. These dogs shouldn’t be active for too long because of their breathing issues. But, it’s not just dogs that have issues breathing because of their brachycephalic faces (flat-faced dogs), but toy dogs that can’t walk for too long. Toy Chihuahuas are another example. Luckily, when they get tired, just put them in the backpack and let them enjoy the view.
6 Additional Equipment
The additional winter dog equipment is for those who go on winter hikes or other winter activities with their dogs. Often, these dogs don’t need sweaters or boots because they were bred to live in cold places, such as the Alaskan Malamute. However, if you plan on staying outdoors for a couple of days, your dog needs:
- Proper harness
- Portable bowl for water and food
- Safety lights
- Camping bed for dogs
There is also a great sport called skijoring for active people and their active dogs. You will need a special hands-free, elastic, and multi-purpose harness such as the one in the picture below. The one in the picture is a so-called pulling harness.
Dog Breeds That Need Winter Jackets
As mentioned at the beginning, not all dogs need winter equipment. Some were born to thrive in cold weather. However, some dogs were not meant to live in very cold, below-freezing areas. Dog breeds that need winter coats are:
- Toy breeds (Chihuahua, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, etc.)
- Hairless breeds (Chinese Crested Dog, Xoloitzcuintli, etc.)
- Short breeds (Dachshunds, Corgis, etc.)
- High-energy sporting dogs (Weimaraner, Vizsla, etc.)
- Dogs with shaved or clipped coats
- Lean dogs (Whippet, Greyhound, etc.)
Summary
Winters can be quite cold in some places. Just like we have to wear proper winter clothes, our dogs need to wear a coat too. Not all of them. As mentioned, some dogs love the cold weather. However, the mentioned dog breeds need protection from the cold weather. The essential winter dog equipment is a dog coat/jacket. Goggles and boots are not necessary but can come in handy in extreme situations. Applying paw protection wax is also an excellent way to keep our dogs healthy.
The general rule for when a dog needs a coat or boots is when it gets below freezing (below 32° F or below 0° C). And remember, no matter if your dog wears a coat, boots, and goggles, if it’s too cold, don’t stay outside for too long. Keep the playtime and walk short until the weather gets warmer.
