At times, your dog’s fur coat isn’t merely enough to protect him in cold weather. Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, and other northern breeds with dense coats may cope well in winter. But their counterparts with short-haired, small, and light bodies will benefit from an added layer of protection.
Infirm or old dogs will probably not cope well with the cold as well. Fortunately, there are many types and designs of dog sweaters to select from, ensuring your pup stays warm, comfortable, and fashionable.
Let’s walk you through how to choose the best dog sweaters for warmth.
What Are the Signs to Know My Dog Is Cold?
Nearly all dogs won’t develop any issues when temperatures are above 40–50°F. However, smaller pups or dogs, who have a thinner coat, may start showing the effects of chilly weather sooner.
Generally, when you notice the temperature has dropped below 40°F, we recommend getting a warm dog sweater for your pet. It’s also a good practice to observe him for any cold signs.
You can do so in many ways. If your canine companion is behaving anxiously, refuses to go with you for a walk or continue with the walk, trembles or shivers, he’s most likely uncomfortable with the low temperature.
Other signs of cold to look out for include the following: lifting his paws regularly from the ground, looking for a warm shelter in the house and outside, producing a whimpering sound, or barking.
How to Determine the Size of Sweater to Choose for Your Dog
When shopping for a sweater or a coat for dogs, it’s crucial to choose the right size to avoid discomfort. When such apparel fits well, your pet will stay warm, be comfortable, and look cute.
When you choose clothing that doesn’t fit properly, your dog can develop one or more of these issues:
· Experience restricted breathing because the neck is too tight.
· Develop sore spots on the skin.
· Cannot move freely because the sweater is too tight on the chest.
· Find it difficult to pee (in males, mostly).
If your dog feels uncomfortable wearing a sweater, avoid forcing him. Even if you’re using the right fit, he might not like it.
To know if he’s comfortable wearing one, consider testing it out gradually. You can start at home and let him wear it for minutes at a time.
Measure your pet to make the process of wearing the sweater easier. As every dog’s shape is unique to the creature, we recommend measuring different points on your furry companion’s body to achieve a perfect fit. You’ll need to measure the following body parts of your dog:
· Body length
· Chest width
· Arm width
· Neck girth
· Shoulder size
· Waist girth
This procedure is essential since certain dog breeds are more difficult to fit owing to their features.
You can consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart before deciding on the option to choose since sizing varies from one company to the other. Don’t also forget to check the dimensions listed and not only the weight and breed guidelines.
It’s imperative to get these measurements because they’ll help you size everything, including dog jackets with a harness, canine rain jackets, and warm dog sweaters.
If you’re not sure whether your dog needs a sweater or not, you can talk to your vet for his expert opinion.
Where to Find the Best Dog Sweaters
Online Shopping. You can get quality sweaters for your pet on online stores. Such sites are dedicated to dog clothing and accessories in general. Spend some time browsing the stores to check various dog sweaters and choose the most suitable option for your pet.
Remember to go through the product information and product reviews (if available) to make sure you’re getting a high-quality item.
Go to a pet store. You can also find a store in your area that specializes in pet products. The ideal thing is to choose the one that will permit you to go in with your dog. That way, you can try various sweaters on him. Or you can at least hold different options up to his body to guesstimate if it’ll fit.
By taking these steps, you’ll find it easier to choose the best dog sweaters in the long run.
Focus on Functionality and Comfort
We provide some tips below to help you determine a sweater or a coat for dogs that’s functional and comfy:
· When your pet has to use the potty, his sweater won’t get in the way. For instance, the sweater doesn’t cover the dog’s sheath (genital area).
· The sweater or coat isn’t hard to wear or take off. Velcro fastenings will probably make the process faster. However, you may find that jackets that come with sleeves are tricky to wear and take off. This point is beneficial, especially if your dog is the type that has a varied shape (with features broader shoulders, thicker neck, chest, or legs).
· The clothing item lets you gain access to your canine companion’s harness or collar. Certain sweaters and coats feature an opening for attaching your dog’s leash to the harness.
Choose an Appropriate Material
The type of material of the apparel needs to be considered when choosing your dog’s sweater. This insider tip can make a big difference.
· Acrylic and wool-blend: This material type offers plenty of warmth and is also soft and easy to wash (machine-washable).
· Wool: This is a warm material but can cause itching. It will probably also need to be hand-washed.
· Cotton: Cotton is a natural option that keeps your dog warm.
· Waterproof and fleece layers: This type is a water-resistant material with a fleece inner layer that helps keep your pets warm.
When selecting the fabric for a coat or sweater for your dog, choose an easily washed and dried unit. Also, consider going for a material that’ll neither irritate nor itch your dog’s skin.
How to Get Your Dog to Wear His Sweater
From the first day, some dogs will readily put on a sweater. However, others will need to ease into it. A good starting point is to allow him to smell the sweater or jacket. Then, rub it against his fur for one or two days.
The next step is to wear the sweater on him loosely and give him a treat. You can select a more snug fit of this sweater the next day. Reward his cooperative behavior often with treats. This way, you can eliminate any anxiety or stress from the process.
These tips will help you find the best dog sweaters for your furry companion. With a high-quality option, you can ensure he stays warm and comfortable in cold weather.