12/12/2024
Sweater game strong! 🧣
Do dogs need sweaters? Great question!!
As the weather outside starts to get cold, it’s important to ensure that your dog is warm and comfortable. While some breeds of dogs naturally have a dense fur coat that keeps them warm in cold weather, that isn’t the case for all dogs.
Dogs that most frequently struggle in colder temperatures are small dogs, especially toy breeds, and dogs without thick fur. Lean dogs with short fur, such as Azawakhs, Whippet, and Greyhounds, also frequently benefit from sweaters during cold weather since they don’t have a lot of fur or body fat to insulate them. Hairless breeds, including the Xoloitzcuintli, American Hairless Terrier, Peruvian Inca Orchid, and Chinese Crested Dog, may need sweaters during cool and cold weather as they can become cold quickly. Other dogs who benefit from sweaters include dogs whose fur has been shaved, young puppies, and senior dogs.
When selecting sweaters for your dog it’s important to ensure you pick the right size and fit. A properly fitting dog sweater will fit your dog without being too big or too tight. A baggy sweater can result in your dog getting caught or tangled in the sweater. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it can also be scary or cause your dog to trip and get injured. On the other hand, a sweater that is too tight can restrict movement, which is uncomfortable and can also lead to injuries. A properly fitted sweater should allow your dog to move normally and not restrict their movement while they walk, run, or play.
Avoid leaving your dog unattended while they’re wearing a sweater. Dogs who are unsupervised can become entangled in their sweaters, which could also lead to injuries. Even dogs who are comfortable and like wearing sweaters can accidentally become tangled. If you’re going to leave your dog unattended at home or in a crate, it’s best to remove the sweater first.
Stay warm everyone!! ❄
CVCA WPB is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, expert cardiac care for your pet. CVCA is the leading choice for veterinary cardiology.
