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Your daily dose of doggy goodness!
Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!
Dog of the Day:
Shawnee!
Meme of the day: That’s the secret!
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Cozy Canine Comfort: How to Tell if Your Dog Needs a Coat
Now that the chill of autumn is upon us, bringing crisp air, golden leaves, and that familiar drop in temperature, it’s not just you reaching for a sweater—your four-legged friend might be feeling the nip, too! While some dogs are built-in fluffballs ready for the Arctic, others need a little help to stay warm and comfortable on those cold-weather walks.
But how do you know if a coat is a necessity or just a cute accessory for your particular pup? The answer is less about fashion and more about your dog's biology, age, and behavior.
The Factors That Determine “To Coat or Not To Coat”
Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to cold tolerance. Here are the main things to consider before you bundle up your furry companion:
The Coat Type (The Natural Insulation):
Short-Haired or Thin-Coated Breeds: Dogs with single, short layers of fur, like Greyhounds, Whippets, Chihuahuas, Beagles, and some terriers, lack the natural insulation of an undercoat. They lose heat quickly and are the most likely candidates for a jacket when the temperature drops.
Small Dogs: Toy and miniature breeds have a smaller body mass, which means they can't generate or retain heat as effectively as larger dogs. A coat is often a good idea for them.
Low-Riding Dogs: Breeds like Dachshunds and Corgis can have their bellies and chest hit the cold, wet ground or snow more easily, leading to faster chilling. Look for coats that offer good belly coverage.
Hairless Breeds: This one is a no-brainer! Breeds like the Chinese Crested have no defense against the cold and should wear appropriate clothing in cool weather.
Thick or Double-Coated Breeds: Dogs like Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Saint Bernards were bred for cold climates. They have dense undercoats that keep them well-insulated, and a coat is generally unnecessary and could even cause them to overheat.
Age and Health:
Puppies and Senior Dogs: Very young puppies don't have their internal temperature regulation fully developed. Likewise, older dogs can struggle to regulate their body heat and may have underlying health issues like arthritis or certain chronic conditions that are exacerbated by the cold. These groups benefit greatly from an extra layer.
Health Conditions: Dogs with conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, or diabetes can have a harder time staying warm. Consult your veterinarian about their specific needs.
The Temperature and Conditions:
The Baseline: Many experts suggest that if the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, a light sweater or coat is a good idea for short- or medium-haired dogs.
Freezing or Below: When temperatures drop below freezing, or if there is wind, rain, or snow, even hardier dogs may need protection, especially for longer outings. Always remember the wind chill factor! A moderate temperature with a strong wind can feel much colder.
Listen to Your Dog: The Visual Cues
The most important factor is always your dog's behavior. Your pup has ways of telling you they're too cold—you just have to look for the signs!
Sign Your Dog is Cold | What It Means |
Shivering or Trembling | This is the most obvious sign, just like in humans. |
Hunched Posture | Your dog may have a hunched back, tense muscles, or tuck their tail tightly between their legs to conserve warmth. |
Lifting Paws Off the Ground | They are trying to avoid contact with the cold surface. This is a common sign they might need booties, too. |
Anxiety or Hesitation | Refusing to walk, constantly turning to go home, or showing signs of being anxious or distressed while outside. |
Slowing Down | If your typically energetic dog is moving slowly or trying to find shelter, they may be cold. |
If you notice any of these behaviors, it's time to shorten your walk and get your companion somewhere warm—and perhaps invest in some new outdoor gear!
Making the Coat Choice
A good dog coat should:
Fit Properly: It should cover the dog's neck, back, and most of the belly without restricting movement.
Be Weather Appropriate: Look for water-resistant or waterproof materials to ensure your dog stays dry, as a wet coat will make them colder faster.
Ultimately, if you're pulling on a winter jacket, hat, and gloves to go outside, it's a good bet that your short-haired or vulnerable dog could use a bit of extra warmth, too. A well-chosen coat isn't just a style statement—it’s a simple, loving way to ensure your dog enjoys their outdoor adventures, no matter how chilly the season gets.
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Dog Food and Supplement Recalls
Here are the recent recalls and advisories:
Raw Bistro - Frozen Beef Dog Food for potential Salmonella contamination.
Foodynamics - Freeze Dried Pet Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.
Nature’s Own - Pet Chews Bully Bites Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.
Viva - Ground Beef for Dogs and Ground Chicken for Dogs and Cats for potential Salmonella and Listeria contamination.
The Smile Section
Family Photo of the Day:
Gizmo!
We want to feature your pup!
We want to share your pup with our pack. Email us your favorite doggy pic or video with your pup’s name, and we'll try to feature it as a family photo in one of our upcoming newsletters or on our Facebook page.
Share our newsletter with your friends!
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Meme of the day: momentswithmiso
