Wrap Up Your Pup: Which Dog Breeds Require Coats in the Winter?

Although many of us are sick of the snow, winter continues to rage in many parts of the United States and Europe. And while most people would never venture out into freezing weather without a proper parka, you might be guilty of failing to dress your four-legged friend in the right attire during those same conditions. Once temperatures dip below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celcius), dog owners need to start paying attention to how their furry companions are faring.

In fact, it’s possible that your canine may need a coat. Even though they may naturally have some protection from the elements, there are certain dogs that might need a bit of help — particularly if they aren’t lucky enough to have a second layer of insulation. If you own one of the following breeds, you’ll want to invest in a pup-sized coat to ensure your best friend stays nice and toasty for the rest of the season.

Dog Breeds & Winter Coats

Chihuahuas

This small breed rose to fame thanks in part to Legally Blonde or those iconic Taco Bell commercials from the ‘90s. These little guys originally came from Mexico, but they eventually found their way to other warm climates. Of course, many of them now live in chillier environments, which don’t exactly suit them to a T. Given their petite builds and their smooth, short coats, they’re incredibly vulnerable to colder temperatures and would be ever so grateful if you’d bundle them up a bit.

Corgis

The corgi’s squat stature and sweet face has made this breed one of the enduring favorites of the internet. But even though these pups have a slightly thicker coat than others on this list, they do have some unique concerns that should prompt their owners to invest in a jacket for their comfort. Because of how low they are to the ground, their chests and bellies often brush against the snow and ice. This can be uncomfortable and quite cold, which means they’ll benefit from a little extra protection when going outdoors.

Greyhounds and Whippets

These breeds both have very distinctively lean bodies. That makes them extremely agile and fast, but it also means they don’t have much body fat to serve as insulation. Therefore, they really aren’t built to withstand the cold and need as much help as they can get. Don’t forget that the greyhound also originated in Egypt, which means this breed isn’t exactly inclined to like the cold. You’ll certainly want to make sure your good boy or girl has a nice coat to protect them from the harsh elements.

Poodles

They may be known for their over-the-top coiffures, but that doesn’t mean their natural coats will help much when the snow falls. Because many poodles are often shorn for aesthetics, they won’t have a lot to insulate them from the frigid weather. You can keep your poodle looking its very best with a stylish coat to complement its perfectly groomed fur.

Small Terriers

Many of the smallest terrier breeds need an extra coat to keep them warm. Dogs that are diminutive in size often need this additional protection, but there are also specific breeds (like Yorkshire and skye terriers, for example) that tend to have longer fur. A dog coat can allow these breeds to keep their own fur clean and dry. In addition, Westies (West Highland White terriers) and rat terriers will also enjoy having some more protection from the cold.

Don’t forget that even if your dog is not among these breeds, they may still need some help from you to stay warm. Dogs who are averse to the cold will start to feel uncomfortable once temperatures dip below that 45-degree mark, while anything below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celcius) can be dangerous for puppies, senior dogs, smaller breeds, and dogs with thinner coats. When temperatures get below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celcius), serious health problems such as hypothermia and frostbite can develop; although your dog will still need to go outside to do their business, you should consider protecting their paws with weather resistant booties, limiting outdoor time, and taking lots of additional precautions to ensure both you and your dog stay safe.

Frolicking around in the snow or taking a brisk morning stroll can certainly enjoyable for both dog and owner. But your pup relies on you to protect them — so make sure they’re snug and comfortable whenever you go outside for a W-A-L-K.