Winter is coming and you know what that means? Cold weather! Whilst some dogs don't seem fazed by a drop in the temperature, others will dash under the blankets and do anything they can to avoid going outside.
Selecting the right dog coat depends on a few factors. This includes your dog's comfort level your personal style, your dog's coat length and your dog's activity level.
Your dog's comfort level
First and foremost, your dog must be comfortable in what he or she is wearing. If you've been dressing your dog up since they were a pup they'll be used to it. This means they’ll probably be quite comfortable wearing a jumper with a hood or any other fancy bells and whistles (not literally of course!)
If however your dog isn't used to wearing clothes or coats, you may want to choose something simple without sleeves so that they can still walk naturally.
Our model Luna feels quite at home showing off some of this seasons new dog jumpers & coats!
Your personal style
If you see your daily dog walk as a cat walk then you may want to choose a coat or jumper with a bit of flair. If however practicality is more important you may wish to go for a subtle yet waterproof option.
Your dog's coat length
At the end of the day, dogs are dogs and they were created with everything they need to survive in the world. This includes a luscious coat of fur to keep them warm.
Not all fur was created equal though and often pooches with shorter coats are naturally suited to warmer climates. Short haired dogs will benefit greatly from a coat or jacket whilst on their winter walks. This is especially true if your dog spends the majority of their time inside… in front of a heater.
That’s not to say that long haired dogs shouldn't wear coats. You may find a waterproof coat stops your dog from become soaked through to their skin. Just remember to look for signs of overheating and remove the clothing promptly. For more information on whether or not your dog should wear a coat visit PetMD.com.
Your dog's activity level
Active dogs will keep themselves warmer when running around so they may not have a need for warm clothing. Less active dogs (such as ill or senior dogs) will feel the cold and a dog jumper or coat can help them to maintain a comfortable temperature.
How to measure your dog for clothing
The lovely Georgia from My Pet Warehouse, shows you how to measure your dog for a dog coat or clothes.
What you'll need
- Your dog
- Flexible tape measure
- A high value treat
- Pen and paper
- Patience…
Step 1
Take your dog into a quiet room with minimal distractions. Show him the treat and place it on a surface above his nose. Make sure he knows it's there but cannot reach it. This should keep him still and in an elongated position.
Step 2
Take the measuring tape and wrap it around his neck in the spot where his collar normally sits. The tape should fit snuggly around his neck without being too tight. If you can get two fingers laid flat underneath the tape, this is just right. Note down this number in CM as the 'neck' measurement.
Step 3
Take the measuring tape and wrap it around his chest at the widest point. This is commonly just behind the front legs. The tape should fit snuggly around the chest without being too tight. Once again, if you can get two fingers laid flat underneath the tape, this is just right. Note down this number in CM as the 'chest' measurement.
Step 4
Take the measuring tape and lay it flat across your dog's back, measuring from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. This measurement should be taken from just underneath where the collar sits to where the tail joins the body (not the tip). Note down this number in CM as the 'length' measurement.
Step 5
Praise your dog and give him the treat! You now have the main three measurements that you will need to select the right sized coat for your dog.
Hints and tips
- If your dog is very wriggly you may need two people during the measuring process.
- Beware of sizing differences between dog clothing manufacturers. Double check the measurements of each piece you are considering purchasing.
- Always go for the slightly bigger size if your dog is in between sizes!
- Don't purchase clothing just because it looks good! Always ensure there is a benefit for your dog.
