Dog Jacket: Why Every Pet Parent Should Own One

As a pet owner, you might have observed that your pet needs something warm and cozy in winter. But one question clicks while thinking the same: does my pet need a jacket? The short answer is yes; despite having their own natural fur, they need extra warmth in winter.  

However, that doesn't mean every dog breed requires a jacket. Only a few dogs, depending on breed, temperature, and size, need something extra to keep them warm in the cold season.  

So, let's explore why a dog jacket might be a must-have for your pup!  

Is a Dog Jacket Really Necessary? 

Originally, the practical purpose of a dog's jacket was to protect them from cold. Today, many modern pet owners want to keep their furry stylish and cute without compromising their comfort. In 2021, the pet apparel market was valued at $5.7 billion, with the majority of sales driven by dog owners.  

But do dogs need coats in winter? Not every dog needs a winter coat in cold weather. Certain breeds can get cold very quickly, and single-coated coats are not enough to provide warmth. In addition, dogs with more fur sometimes do not need jackets, but it will not harm them either. One thing you need to ensure that your furry doesn't get too warm in clothing. 

Which Dog Needs a Dog Jacket?  

Some breeds are more vulnerable to cold than others. Without more ado, let's delve into the types of dogs that may benefit from wearing a dog jacket: 

• Small and Toy Breeds  

Breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Miniature Pinschers may fall under this category. They have less body fat and shorter fur, which makes them more susceptible to the cold. Here, jackets are helpful for them to stay cozy and prevent discomfort in winter. 

• Thin or Underweight Dogs  

Dogs with low body fat, such as Whippets or Italian Greyhounds, struggle to retain heat. With this budget pet care, you can provide the insulation they need.  

• Short-Haired Breeds  

Dogs with short fur, such as Boxers, Greyhounds, and Dobermans, lack the natural insulation that long-haired breeds have. They need an extra layer to maintain body heat. 

• Senior Dogs  

As your furry age, their ability to regulate body temperature decreases. Senior dogs, especially those with arthritis or joint issues, benefit from the warmth of a dog jacket in cold weather. 

• Puppies  

Young puppies have not yet developed a thick coat, making them more prone to cold. When venturing outside, jackets ensure they stay warm and comfortable. 

When Does a Dog Need a Coat? 

Every chilly day does not require bundling your dog in a coat. We've mentioned some instances when you can feel there's a need for winter pets clothing.  

Let's see when your pup needs an extra layer of cloth. 

During Freezing Temperatures  

When your dog is around snowy and icy surfaces or nearby windy areas, then a winter coat is necessary. Small or less-furred dogs must wear jackets if the outside temperature is at or less than 32°F (0°C). In this situation, you should not think: does my dog need a jacket? In fact, if the temperature is below 45°F (7°C), short-haired or small dogs should wear a coat.

Windy and Wet Conditions  

Cold rain, snow, or strong winds can make your dog's fur damp and reduce its insulation. Various winter pets clothing items, like a water-resistant dog jacket, keep your pet dry and warm. 

Long Outdoor Walks in Winter  

If you enjoy taking your dog on long winter walks, a dog jacket helps them stay warm and prevents hypothermia or frostbite. 

Post Grooming Sessions  

Freshly groomed dogs, especially those with shaved or trimmed fur, lose their natural insulation. A jacket ensures they don't get too cold after a grooming session.  

What are the Benefits of Dog Jackets?  

Jackets for your furry buddies are made from waterproof and water-resistant materials like polyester, nylon, or fleece. Jackets are specifically made to protect your dog from rain, wind, snow, and other bad weather conditions.  

Before delving into the benefits of dog jackets, it's essential to consider the comfort and warmth provided by accessories like the Foldable Winter Warm Dog House Kennel Bed Mat, which can keep your furry friend cozy during the cold months.  

• Dogs experience the same cold temperature sensations as human beings. The protective dog jacket serves two purposes: it sustains warmth and defends against water and wind while providing protection in snowy and rainy conditions. 
• Small and short-haired breeds experience maximum comfort by wearing jackets. 
• Small dogs with short hair, along with some other types of dogs, find it difficult to generate sufficient body heat. Wearing a properly fitting dog jacket protects small breeds along with short-coated dogs during cold temperature walks by keeping them both dried off and warm. 
• Senior dogs and young puppies usually have underdeveloped or fragile immune capabilities. A dog jacket serves as insulation to safeguard dogs from sickness while also preventing joint stiffness in freezing temperatures. 
• Various dog jackets feature reflective safety elements or vibrant color schemes that enhance dogs' visibility in dim lighting situations.  

Well, if your pet is naughty and you want to ensure a safe outdoor adventure, then consider purchasing the best cat harness or a dog jacket. These accessories provide added control and safety, ensuring your furry friend stays comfortable and secure during outdoor activities. 

How to Measure Your Dog For The Perfect Fit? 

Selecting a dog jacket demands choosing the correct size, which determines both comfort and freedom of movement. Follow these steps for accurate dog measurement to secure the correct size. 

Measure the Back Length 

Begin your dog jacket measurement process by taking the length from the neck base to the tail base. Start measuring at the base neck where the fitting collar rests, and extend your tape to the back of the tail where it touches the floor. You should perform measurements when your dog stands still and maintains a straight and upright head position. By measuring carefully, you will obtain the exact length needed for the dog jacket coverage. 

Measure the Chest Circumference 

To proceed with the measurement, take the tape from the back of your dog and move it to the largest portion of its chest area. Lay the measuring tape gently around your dog's rib cage area, which is located just following the front legs. The tape needs to be fitted closely against your pet's body without causing any restriction while being parallel from side to side. Dachshund and other dogs with similar body proportions show that the chest measurement remains larger than the back length. 

Check the Size Chart 

Proceed to the manufacturer's size chart after you measure your dog's back length and chest circumference. The dog jacket size chart determines if the dog jacket extends shorter or longer than average measurements. Various brands provide dog jackets in diverse sizes between XXS and XXL while also producing particular designs for particular breeds to enhance their match. 

Test the Fit 

You need to place the dog jacket on your dog after choosing the fitting size from your measurements. The dog should be able to move freely through the cloth since it should not twist or form constricting folds on the body. Readjust the chosen size because a proper fit should not be too tight or loose. Selecting the proper dog jacket requires test-wearing multiple potential sizes and models for the most suitable comfort and fit. 

In a Nutshell!

Overall, a dog jacket serves as a vital purchase for pet owners with small dogs that lack fur, have short hair, or reach senior age. Dog jackets both provide insulation for warmth and shield against weather elements that include winds, rain, and snow. Your dog needs a proper jacket to keep warm, which, in turn, preserves its overall health throughout the cold winter months. The right fit combined with proper care allows a dog jacket to serve as a fashionable and useful item for keeping dogs warm throughout winter.