Cold Weather Dog Gear: Coats, Boots, and Who Needs Them

No single temperature is too cold for every dog. Small dogs, short-coated dogs, puppies, and senior dogs get cold first, and a thick coat does not make a dog safe outside for hours. The American Kennel Club quotes Dr. Jolee Stegemoller, DVM, who explains that there isn't an exact temperature that is too cold for all dogs. She looks at the dog's coat, such as a double coat like a Husky, Malamute, or Labrador Retriever, and at any medical concerns.

This page covers frostbite and hypothermia, the dogs that get cold first, the breeds built for snow, and the gear we like for bodies, paws, eyes, ears, and noses. The right piece depends on the dog.

Well, look no further! It's time to get your pooch prepped up with some cold-weather gear. Now we're not talking about some chic winter coat that'll make your dog look like a bootleg celebrity. No, we're talking about gear designed to keep your pup warm when the temperatures dip.

Dangers Of Cold Weather For Dogs

Frostbite and hypothermia are the two cold injuries to know. Frostbite is damage to skin and tissue. VCA Animal Hospitals describes how it starts: "When the environmental temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), blood vessels close to the skin start to narrow or constrict."

VCA says the paws, ears, and tail are the tissues most often affected, and that a wet or damp dog is more vulnerable in those areas. The Merck Veterinary Manual's editorial staff says frostbite is more likely in wet or windy conditions and typically affects poorly insulated body regions, including the tips of the ears, the feet, and the tail. VCA lists discoloration of the skin, often pale, gray, or bluish, as one sign, and says to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect frostbite.

Hypothermia is a drop in body temperature. The AKC says mild hypothermia begins to set in when a dog's body temperature drops below 99°F. It gives 90 to 99°F as mild, 82 to 90°F as moderate, and under 82°F as severe. The AKC adds that "Shivering and curling up for warmth are some of the first signs of mild hypothermia in dogs."

The Merck Veterinary Manual's editorial staff describes it differently: "Shivering is not usually a sign of hypothermia in pets, as it is in people." The Merck article says pets typically act weak or disoriented, breathe shallowly, or have a slow pulse, and at worst collapse and become unconscious. It says pets showing these signs should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Wind makes it worse. Humane World for Animals says, "No matter what the temperature is, windchill can threaten a pet's life." The National Weather Service defines the wind chill temperature as "how cold people and animals feel when outside." It also says you can only get frostbite if the actual air temperature near the skin, not the wind chill temperature, is below freezing.

Winter walks have a chemical risk too. Humane World for Animals says rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of a pet's feet, and it says to wipe all paws with a damp towel before the pet licks them. The Merck article describes what happens after a pet swallows rock salt: vomiting within several hours that can progress to weakness, diarrhea, muscle tremors, and seizures.

Preparing for your dog's needs each season is part of being a responsible pet parent.

Which Dogs Get Cold Fastest

The AKC lists the kinds of dogs that may need a jacket in winter. Examples are from the AKC.

Age matters as much as breed. The AKC says, "Young puppies and senior dogs of all breeds and sizes are more susceptible to the cold than healthy adult dogs." It also says small dogs, senior dogs, puppies, and short-coated dogs are at higher risk of rapid loss of body heat.

For a short-haired dog, the ASPCA suggests a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck, with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. Humane World for Animals says short-haired dogs "often feel more comfortable wearing a sweater".

Best Dogs For Cold Climates

The AKC says, "Generally, large breed dogs with thick coats will be protected from the cold." Its list of breeds that love cold weather names seven dogs, and what it says about each is below.

The AKC adds a warning: "Just because these dogs were bred to withstand cold temperatures does not mean it is safe to leave them outdoors for long on cold days. They, too, can get frostbite and hypothermia."

Keeping Your Dog's Paws Warm

Paws are one of the places where frostbite shows up first, and snow and ice also dry and irritate them. The ASPCA says to massage petroleum jelly or other vet-approved paw protectants into paw pads before going outside, to protect them from salt and chemical agents. It says booties can provide even more coverage and can keep sand and salt from getting lodged between bare toes.

The AKC points out that hair on the feet of long-haired dogs can form ice balls between the pads and toes. It says some dogs will also need a paw balm, which you can buy or make at home, or a moisturizer for dry skin, and that different retailers offer dog boots or paw protectors that work well.

If you want something to match, browse our dog merch.

Choosing The Right Coat Or Sweater

Types Of Jackets

The AKC names five kinds of dog jackets: lightweight, insulated, raincoats, snowsuits, and bodysuits. A lightweight one suits a short-coated dog on a cool day, and an insulated one suits a dog that will stand around outside in the cold. Raincoats keep a coat dry, and the AKC says that even dogs who don't get cold easily can benefit from wearing a rain jacket in wet climates.

Fit And Features

The AKC says, "When wearing a jacket, dogs should be able to comfortably walk, run, and play." It says a jacket should not be so loose that a dog could become entangled, and it tells you to measure the length of your dog's body and around the widest part of the chest. Useful features it names are reflective trim and a built-in hole for the leash attachment of a harness to pass through.

A Coat Does Not Replace Care

The AKC says clothing for a dog "should never be used on an unattended dog or as a substitute for proper care, but rather as an adjunct." The ASPCA says to make sure your dog has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. Our guide to dog beds for big dogs covers that side, and the ASPCA also says never to shave your dog down to the skin in winter.

Heat is the risk at the other end of the year, and our guide on how to keep a dog cool in summer covers the signs and first aid.

Best Cold Weather Dog Gear

These are the pieces we like for cold, wet, and snowy days. Details for the Amazon picks come from their own listings.

Ruffwear Vert Dog Winter Jacket

The Ruffwear Vert is an insulated winter jacket. The listing describes a waterproof, windproof, and breathable shell with a fold-up storm collar, high-loft recycled polyester insulation with a soft lining, and high-visibility reflective trim. A back leash portal lets a dog wear it over most harnesses.

BaxterBoo Heart And Crossbones Hoodie

Are you and your dog the most fabulous pair in town? Then make sure your dog dresses as stylishly as you do with this epic heart and crossbones hoodie. It also features rhinestone accents. All the other dogs in the neighborhood will be jealous. It's also double-stitched, so you're sure your dog's wearing a snug and comfy fit!

Chilly Dogs Great White North Coat

Canadians know cold temperatures well, and this Canadian company's Great White North dog coat is a great way to keep your dog warm, even when the temperature drops below zero. These machine-washable coats have a waterproof shell, warm fleece, and reflective piping for safety.

Ultra Paws Rugged Dog Boots

If you and your dog are fans of the rugged outdoor lifestyle, look no further than these tough boots from Ultra Paws. They're specifically made for active dogs and rough terrain. They have a super strong recycled tire sole for extra paw protection.

The listing says the boots have a high-density foam design that fits best when the velcro straps are tight, and thick soles made of recycled tires. It says to measure your dog's paws and use the size guide, because the width of the paw should be less than the width of the boot.

Holiday Dog Sweater

What's cuter than an adorable knitted doggie sweater with an embroidered Christmas tree and snowman design? Check out this cute holiday dog sweater on Etsy.

Fashion Pet Rainy Days Slicker

Don't let your dog get embarrassed by the wet dog smell after a walk in the rain. Get one of these cheerful yellow Rainy Days Slickers to keep your pet nice and dry in a wet climate. This raincoat has a hood, leash opening, and a reflective stripe for safety.

The listing says it is made of 100% polyester with a polyurethane coating, with an adjustable velcro belly strap. Care is hand wash in cold water and air dry.

Protecting Your Dog's Eyes, Nose, And Ears

Face gear is optional for most dogs, but it helps on bright snow, in wind, and on cold mornings.

Dog Goggles

Who said dogs couldn't wear goggles? Goggles can provide much-needed protection from dust particles - they're perfect for when your dog is running in the snow or even during regular walks in windy or dusty conditions.

This listing is for clear goggles with a soft TPU frame, impact resistant PC lenses, and two adjustable nylon elastic straps, one for the head and one under the chin. It says they give UV, wind, and snow protection and protect dog eyes from dust, debris, and dirt. They fit medium, large, or partially extra large dogs, and the listing says they are not for small dogs.

Ear Muffs

Dogs have pretty sensitive ears, so don't forget to invest in some ear muffs for those cold mornings! Just make sure to get the perfect size so your dog can be comfortable and get all cozied up without fear of their ear muffs flying off.

Nose Balm

Humane World for Animals says, "Exposed skin on noses, ears and paw pads are at risk for frostbite and hypothermia during extreme cold snaps." A dog's nose also does a lot of work. A 2014 study in Genome Research found that dogs have about 800 olfactory receptor genes.

We all know dogs are one of the world's best sniffers, so you better keep that cute little nose protected! While you may not be able to find an actual "nose balm" at your local pet store, petroleum jelly works wonders! It's designed to keep noses moisturized and protect against healing issues caused by cold climates.

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FAQ

What is considered cold weather for dogs?

It depends on the dog. Some pet gear pages use a single figure such as anything below 45°F. The AKC quotes Dr. Stegemoller, who gives a general recommendation: "if the windchill is below 20 degrees, playtime should be kept short". She suggests 15 to 20 minute sessions, then time to warm up inside.

Do dogs need jackets in the cold?

Some do. The AKC says thick-coated large breeds will generally be protected from the cold, but some breeds do need one, including small and toy breeds, hairless breeds, clipped Poodles, short-legged dogs such as Dachshunds and Basset Hounds, and lean dogs such as Greyhounds and Whippets. The AKC also says, "Even dogs who don’t get cold easily can benefit from wearing rain jackets in wet climates."

Is cold weather bad for dogs?

It can be. The ASPCA says, "Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside." The AKC says puppies and senior dogs are more susceptible to the cold than healthy adult dogs. Pick a coat from the gear above, and you can even give it as a gift to your favorite dog parent.

Sources

• American Kennel Club: dog winter coats
• American Kennel Club: hypothermia in dogs
• American Kennel Club: seven breeds that love the cold
• American Kennel Club: winter safety tips
• Merck Veterinary Manual: keeping pets safe during cold winter months
• ASPCA: cold weather safety tips
• Humane World for Animals: how to keep pets warm in cold winter weather
• National Weather Service: wind chill chart
• Genome Research, 2014: olfactory receptor genes across mammals

Product details for the Ruffwear Vert, Ultra Paws, Rainy Days Slicker, and goggle picks come from their Amazon listings.