DOES A DOG NEED CLOTHES?

The days are getting shorter, the temperatures are dropping. For us humans, this is a sign that we are pulling out warm sweaters and coats from the closet. Our dogs also change their coat from summer to winter to prepare for the cold and wet days. But is that enough? Some dogs seem to be freezing anyway - or are we just imagining it?

When dog clothes make sense

A dog in a skirt or a funny Christmas sweater? It's cute, but you should think about whether you're really doing your four-legged friend a favor. However, if you notice that your dog is freezing or feeling uncomfortable outside, functional dog clothes make perfect sense.

A dog coat is not suitable for all dogs. If your dog is healthy, has thick fur and is outside a lot, clothing is not necessary even in winter. However, if dogs have short fur and a small undercoat, they can freeze at low temperatures. This also applies to small and short-legged dogs. Due to their proximity to the ground, they are particularly exposed to wet and cold soil. In old and sick dogs, it may happen that the coat no longer provides sufficient protection, and special care is also needed with puppies, as their coat has yet to develop. Even when traveling, when your dog goes from a warm country to a cold one, he will get used to the lower temperature better with the help of clothes.

A dog's coat - from what temperature does it make sense?

From how many degrees your pet should wear a coat cannot be determined. You yourself will notice when it is time to wear it. For example, when you open the door and your dog is reluctant to go for a walk, or just does his business very quickly and wants to go home very quickly.

Active dogs that stay outside for a long time are better able to withstand low temperatures and happily jump over the deepest snow when walking.

Which dog coat is the right one?

There are different types of dog clothes suitable for different seasons and temperatures. The right choice depends on the weather conditions and also the characteristics of your dog.

In autumn and in the transition period, when it is not quite cold yet, a light, waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended. Many models also provide reflectors for better visibility in the dark. A light sweater for dogs ensures a smooth transition if a winter coat is not yet necessary.
In the winter, when the temperatures are very cold or there is snow, you can use a warm sweater or a lined dog coat.

They are ideal combined coats with a removable inner fleece , because they are practical and suitable for the transitional period as well as for the cold winter.

How do I know the jacket fits correctly?

The right size is critical to your dog's well-being.
To find the right size, you need three measurements of your dog:

• First, measure the circumference of the neck (marked in blue in the sketch).
• Then measure the length of the back, that is, from the neck to the bottom of the tail (indicated in green).
• And finally waist circumference or chest circumference (indicated in red).

Most dog coats have these measurements listed on the package so you can compare them to your measurements.