Colder weather is coming and with it heavier and warmer clothes. And what about pets, how do they protect themselves from the cold? For polar dogs such as Siberian Huskies and Malamutes, this is not a problem and thick and long fur protects them from frost and they are overjoyed that summertime is behind us. However, in smaller short-haired breeds, this is not the case.
Surely you have met many times dog owners who proudly walk their dogs in clothes. Some even choose clothes from world-famous brands, and combine them with their outfit. Let’s just remember Paris Hilton and her famous chihuahuas and their appearances on the red carpet. However, the question arises whether dog clothes are just a fashion trick or a necessity? To most dogs, nature has given them a coat that protects them from cold and weather conditions. However, there are many breeds that are not accustomed to low temperatures. However, every dog is different and it is important to observe how it behaves in the cold. Read below how your pet tells you that clothes are what he needs.
short hair
Dogs are animals perfectly adapted to their environment, with hair that protects them from extreme temperatures, hot and cold, while protecting the skin from damage. However, there are many short-haired breeds and breeds of thin build that need clothing during cold winter days. In fact, it can be extremely uncomfortable for a dog in autumn and winter temperatures, just as it would be uncomfortable for us to go outside without clothes. A sweater or jacket can help during the fall and winter seasons, especially if your dog wants to go out in the rain or snow.
old dogs
Old dogs, and even those with longer hair, do not like low temperatures, and because of their fragile health, it is recommended to wear clothes. Also, sick dogs suffering from diabetes or kidney disease have problems with regulating body temperature and need a piece of clothing that will keep them warm.
puppies
We need to know that dogs are not able to regulate their body temperature during the first weeks of life, so if they are dehydrated, they will quickly cool down to life-threatening values. For that reason, it is necessary to provide a small and warm space, especially if it is separated from the mother. If you can’t find clothes in small sizes, don’t worry, there will be blankets. Moreover, it is much more practical because the puppies do not move much, at least not in the first days.
Behavior that clearly shows that the dog is cold
If you pay attention, your pasture can tell you or show that it needs an additional heating source. One sure sign that your pet is cold is shaking, hunched over holding a curled tail, and whining. In addition, there are other indicators such as reluctance to walk and appearance that betrays anxiety or discomfort. Some breeds show more symptoms, and some only one, it is up to you to pay attention.
Dog activity
A lot also depends on the activity of the dog. If he is just walking around the neighborhood, or you will (briefly) leave him in front of the store, you need to get him something because he is not active enough to warm himself up. But if you’re going on a morning run, where the dog will chase a ball or something, you don’t need to warm it up, because it will warm up on its own. In this case, the coat is counterproductive – as much as on the runner, because it will only overheat and bother him.
What interests many dog owners is how to choose the ideal size, material, and type of clothing. A T-shirt, hat or collar can be bought without the participation of the dog, but it is simply necessary to try on overalls. The raincoat should be moderately loose, not interfere with the pet’s movements, but also not take out the bag on the dog. In other words, everything that is made of worm materials, which does not contain elastine, is best tried. However, do not give up online shopping right away. Another way to know what size suits your dog is to measure it. The most important is the length of the back, and it is measured from the pit under the shoulder blades to the base of the tail. In addition, the neck circumference is important, and it is measured in the lower, widest part. Next is the waist circumference as well as the length of the front legs. Of course, it is important to choose quality materials, because they sweat from synthetic materials, and they are still cold. Then why not, in addition to designer fashion for dogs, make our pets the most fashionable in the area, even on cold winter days? To learn more about dog clothes visit this site. In addition to warming up your dog, clothing can also help with anxiety. The feeling of security that comes from a comfortable vest like a t-shirt can be soothing for anxious dogs.
Inadequate clothing can cause itching as well as improper control of body temperature. So keep in mind that it can cause a counter-effect. You should also always choose clothes that are easy for the dog to wear. Some dogs take a long time to get used to the clothes, so it would be good to take advantage of the moment after a big walk. When the dog is tired, take him for another walk, but train him first. He will be tired, so he will not complain about getting dressed.
The most important thing we can do for our four-legged friends is to become careful observers, especially when conditions change outside and inside themselves over time. As in all relationships, developing this awareness requires work, but it is work that is worth the effort. Then, when you see how satisfied the mass with their tails is, you will realize that all the effort around them has paid off.