Dressing Your Dog for Winter: The Complete Guide

The dog coat makes some people smile and reassures others. The reality is simple: it all depends on the dog. A Husky needs nothing; an 18 lb Whippet starts shivering at 50°F. Here's how to decide.

Does your dog need a coat?

Yes, most likely

• Short coat with no undercoat: Whippet, Greyhound, Doberman, Boxer, Chihuahua, Pug.
• Small dogs (under 18 lb): their surface-to-volume ratio makes them lose heat very fast.
• Puppies: their thermoregulation is still immature.
• Senior or arthritic dogs: cold stiffens joints and flares up pain.
• Sick, recovering, or recently shaved dogs.

No, it's not necessary

• Nordic and double-coated breeds: Husky, Malamute, German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Newfoundland. Their undercoat is a remarkable insulator — a coat can even make them overheat.

At what temperature?

Temperature	Cold-sensitive dogs	Hardy dogs
50 – 59°F	Comfortable	Comfortable
39 – 50°F	Coat recommended	No need
32 – 39°F	Coat needed	Normal walks
Below 32°F	Coat + short walks	Watch the paws

Wind and rain matter as much as the thermometer: a wet coat loses most of its insulating power.

Signs your dog is cold

• Shivering or hunching up
• Lifting one paw after another
• Slowing down and wanting to head back inside
• Refusing to sit on the ground

Getting the size right

This is where it all comes down to. A coat that's too big lets in cold air and gets in the way of walking; too small, and it binds at the shoulders.

The decisive measurement is the back length: from the base of the neck (between the shoulder blades) to the base of the tail. The coat should stop at the base of the tail, never beyond — otherwise it gets in the way when your dog relieves themselves.

Then check the chest girth. Between two sizes? Go with the larger one.

👉 All the charts are in our size guide.

What materials to look for

• Water-repellent shell: essential in rain or snow.
• Fleece or quilted lining: this is what actually provides insulation.
• Reflective strips: in winter, most walks happen in the dark.
• Harness opening: no need to choose between warmth and safety.
• Machine washable: you'll be glad you checked.

See our picks: waterproof coat with harness opening, fleece jacket, knit sweater.

Getting a coat-resistant dog used to it

1. Let them sniff the coat laid on the floor, reward them.
2. Drape it over their back without fastening it, for 10 seconds, reward.
3. Fasten it, 30 seconds at home, reward, take it off.
4. Gradually extend the time, then go outside with it on.

Never force it on the first time: a dog who associates the coat with being restrained will keep refusing it.

Don't forget the paws

De-icing salt is irritating and toxic if licked. After every winter walk in the city, rinse and dry the paw pads. A paw cleaner makes it quick.