During the cold weather months, retail stores are full of adorable sweaters for dogs, from "ugly" Christmas sweaters to classic knits and even sweaters with cheeky sayings on them. While it can be adorable to dress our dogs up, dressing dogs in clothes also comes with controversy and often makes people wonder if dogs really need sweaters?
While sweaters are just a fun accessory for some dogs, other dogs absolutely need sweaters if they're going to be spending time outdoors when it's cold. So if you're the owner of certain breeds, you definitely don't have to feel guilty about putting a sweater on your dog.
Here's which dog breeds sweaters are necessary for (and which breeds they aren't) and how you can find the right sweater for your dog.
Which dog breeds definitely need sweaters?
Dog breeds originate from all over the world, like Chihuahuas that originated from Mexico, Bernese Mountain Dogs that originated from Switzerland, and Siberian Huskies that originated from Siberia, for example. Where a dog originated and what they were bred for determines some of the characteristics they have, such as their coat type, body type, and how they handle certain weather conditions.
Dogs that are leaner, smaller, or from warmer climates often aren't as equipped to handle cold weather. They don't have as much body fat, hair, or they lose body heat faster. If these dogs get cold, it can lead to hypothermia, which can cause them to become very sick or even die. Here are some dog breeds that definitely need sweaters if they're going to be outside for more than just a few minutes.
Small breeds
Because small and toy dog breeds have a bigger surface area compared to body volume ratio, they get cold faster than larger dogs. This is because they lose more body heat than they can keep in, and they lose it faster than larger dogs.
Owners of the following breeds should definitely consider sweaters for their dogs during the winter:
- Chihuahuas
- Chinese Cresteds
- Corgis
- English Bulldogs
- French Bulldogs
- Havanese
- Papillons
- Shih Tzus
- Toy Poodles
- Yorkies
But even if you have a small dog that isn't listed, it's still a good idea to put a sweater on them just to be safe.
Hairless breeds
Because a dog's fur plays such an important role in helping them stay warm, dog breeds that lack hair definitely need sweaters to keep them warm in cold weather. Hairless breeds include American Hairless Terriers, Peruvian Inca Orchids, and Xolos.
Lean breeds
Body fat provides insulation which helps dogs to stay warm. Lean dog breeds don't have as much body fat as other dog breeds, so they need a little extra help staying warm. Lean dog breeds that may need a sweater include:
- Afghan Hounds
- Azawakhs
- Dobermans
- Greyhounds
- Ibizan Hounds
- Salukis
- Whippets
Dog breeds that usually don't need sweaters
Larger dog breeds with thick coats or that were bred in someplace cold usually don't need sweaters in the colder months. These dogs usually have double coats, which helps to provide extra insulation, and they often have more body fat as well.
Dogs that don't need sweaters include but are not limited to:
- Akitas
- Alaskan Malamutes
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Chow Chows
- German Shepherds
- Great Pyrenees
- Labrador Retrievers
- Newfoundlands
- Saint Bernards
- Shiba Inus
- Siberian Huskies
How to choose a sweater for your dog
Fit and function are two of the most important factors to consider when choosing a sweater for your dog.
Finding the right fit
Dogs need sweaters that fit them. If the sweater is too baggy, your dog can trip over it or they can pull it off. If the sweater is too tight, it can restrict their movement and make them uncomfortable. Dog sweater sizes are based on a dog's measurements. Some have suggested breeds that they will fit, while others rely on you measuring your dog to find the right fit. In either case, its still a good idea to measure your dog before purchasing a sweater, especially if your dog is larger or smaller than normal.
To measure your dog for a sweater, you will need a soft measuring tape. Measure around your dog's neck and chest, and measure the length of their back. Compare these measurements to the measurements on the sweater packaging to find the right size for your dog.
Making sure the sweater is functional
You also want to make sure the sweater functions as you need it to. For example, if you're going to be taking your dog for walks while they're wearing the sweater, then the sweater needs to have a hole for the leash to attach to the collar or harness. Or, you may have to buy a bigger harness so that it fits over the sweater.
Hairless dogs or dogs that are going outside on days that are extra cold may also need a sweater with a fleece or sherpa lining. Smaller dogs with double coats, such as Corgis, may need a lighter sweater to help keep them comfortable but warm without overheating.
Always supervise your dog while they're wearing a sweater
Whether you choose to put a sweater on your dog to keep them warm or just for fashion, always make sure to supervise them while they're wearing it. Dogs can work their way out of sweaters and get tangled in them, which can lead to injury.
While sweaters aren't necessary for all dogs, some dogs really do need them and benefit from them. So if you have a dog breed that needs to wear a sweater to stay warm, never feel guilty about putting clothes on them. You're being a good pet owner by keeping your dog safe and warm!