Keep your Furbaby Warm and Stylish All Winter Long
Cold weather can only mean one thing–it is time to go shopping!
The temperatures are dropping, snow is on the ground, ice is coating rooftops–suddenly, we are all living in a winter wonderland! As we move forward into the winter season, pawrents must once again adapt to cherishing their beloved fur babies in a whole new way. When the seasons change, so do our outfits.
With each new season, our pets’ needs change, and pet parents in every state are already adapting to protect their pets as the days get colder. Of course, every good pet parent knows that one of the best ways to prep your dog for winter is with a full wardrobe change (or at least an item or two). In this post, we’re going to explain what dog parents need to know about shopping for dog winter outfits this season.
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What Are Winter Dog Clothes?
Winter dog clothes are dog clothes that are made specifically for dogs during winter. Generally, these clothes can break down into two different categories–functional winter clothes and fashionable winter clothes. But we’ll let you in on a little secret–the best winter dog clothes can act as both, if you need them too.
Functional winter dog clothes are going to be any clothing item that is aimed at providing some kind of protection against the elements this season. These clothes generally offer some level of warmth and can be used to protect your dog in some capacity. Whether that means keeping them warm, protecting them against snow or rain, or making sure their little paws aren’t exposed to the ice, the end goal is protection–just like a lot of the winter gear that we all wear every year.
Fashionable winter dog clothes can be functional, but they don’t necessarily have to be. If you have a dog that thrives in winter and has plenty of thick fur, it might not be a good thing to give them too much coverage or protection. Nevertheless, you can still get your pup some winter-themed outfits so they can participate in the fun of the season.
Does My Dog Need Special Clothes for Winter?
Every pet parent will have to decide whether their dog really does need winter clothing. Of course, any pup can enjoy a good winter outfit, but the dogs that will benefit from them the most are dogs that need that extra support against the cold. This can happen when you live in a very cold area, or if your dog just doesn’t have a lot of warmth of their own. In fact, some dogs need winter clothing to keep them safe and protected during the cold months.
Just like humans, dogs can be negatively impacted by the cold, even just on a short walk. If you have a tiny dog or a dog that doesn’t have much fur to protect them, winter clothing should be something you invest in. Even pups that only have mid-length fur can benefit from them.
When Should My Dog Wear Winter Clothes?
Winter clothes are a great investment, but they are one that does come with a few rules for wear.
As a rule, pet parents should strive to break out the winter clothes when the temperatures really start dropping–even if it is only at certain times of the day. For a lot of places, the transition from fall to winter can mean warm days and chilly nights. Most pet parents break out winter clothing when the temperatures start to drop below 40 degrees–but if you have a dog that gets cold easily, you might invest in some warm clothes sooner.
Most commonly, true winter dog clothing is worn outside when pets are out in the cold. This can help to protect your pup against the cold, snow, and rain when you take them out on a walk. However, it is generally best to remove or change those same clothes when dogs are inside to keep them from overheating. This largely comes down to how warm is the outfit.
How to Find the Best Winter Dog Clothes
When you pick out dog clothes for winter, you have three major considerations–temperature control, durability, and comfort. These three factors can help you to determine whether an item is a good investment for regular use. Your dog can certainly enjoy clothing that just looks great too. Fashion should always be on the list of considerations so your dog can always look their best!
Temperature Control
When the seasons change, chances are that your clothing changes too. From summer to fall, we switch from shorts to longer pants and from tank tops to sweaters. The main reason? The temperature! Shopping for winter clothing for dogs makes this very important too.
Every piece of doggy winter clothing is going to have a different level of temperature support. Some clothing items will offer a little protection against the wind without overheating your dog, while other items will keep your dog warm in below-freezing weather. Be sure to determine just how much temperature control your purchases offer so you can find options that meet your dog’s needs.
Durability
Any time that you shop for winter clothing, it is important to consider durability–especially for long-term investments. Most pet parents want their dogs to have clothes that are built to last and are suitable to the sometimes-wild nature of canine activity. Chances are that your dog loves to run, roll, and sneak into small places. Durable winter clothing can support them on every adventure that they go on. Remember, durability also means that your pup’s clothes won’t break down when you are counting on the clothes to protect them.
Comfort
Any time you shop for your pup, you absolutely want to keep their comfort in mind. A comfortable dog is a happy dog–and dogs that aren’t comfortable can end up showing that discomfort in a lot of ways. Some dogs have even been known to shred the clothing they were wearing because it wasn’t comfortable. Look for items that are loose enough to support your pup’s natural movements without impeding them.
Fashion
Every time you shop for doggy clothing, it is the perfect opportunity to bring out your dog’s inner fashionista. Consider your pup’s style and choose items for them that match their aesthetic. Some dogs are snowy princes and princesses, while other dogs prefer something a little more rugged. Be sure to have fun while shopping for your pooch!
Types of Winter Dog Fashion
The winter dog clothing industry is filled with all kinds of fun clothing options for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and fur types. To help you better understand exactly what your options are, we decided to explore the different kinds of doggy clothing that you might encounter while shopping this winter season.
Cold Weather Dog Coats
Though there are a few types of dogs that stay warm naturally in winter, a surprising number of dog breeds really don’t have the physical support they need to stay comfortable in the cold. Small dogs can be susceptible to the cold–even when it is still above freezing.
Cold-weather dog coats are dog coats that are designed to keep pups warm when they are in colder spaces. These coats generally keep the cold air out and the warm air in. This means that you can take pups out into the cold while maintaining their health and comfort. Pawrents often use these jackets to take their dogs out on walks or to go to the bathroom. They can be a great tool in helping you to get your dog the exercise they need, even when it is cold out.
Dog Winter Coats for Snow
Some dog coats only protect against the cold, but others can protect well against the snow too. These coats are often water-resistant and will help to keep your dog from getting wet and cold, even when it is actively snowing. These can be a literal lifesaver for pups that live in snowy areas–but don’t push them too far. Event water-resistant coats can get saturated with water if the snow is too wet, or your dog is outside in it for too long.
Style-Only Dog Coats
Some dogs are just in it for the winter fashion, and there is nothing wrong with that! Fortunately, there are plenty of cute and stylish coats available that aren’t too warm or bulky. These coats might not be great for protecting against the cold, but they can still look great–and your pup can enjoy looking amazing in them.
Cozy Dog Clothing
You know how most of us love the colder seasons because we get to wear some of our comfiest clothes? Well, dogs can enjoy that too! This winter, keep your dog cozy and snuggly all season long by investing in some cozy clothes that they can wear inside too. There are plenty of doggy sweaters, sweatshirts, and long-sleeve shirts that are perfect for lounging–and don’t underestimate the comfort of a cute doggy dress.
Warm Winter Dog Clothes
There are some pups who need a little warmth boost, even when they are inside. Small dogs can really benefit from some warm winter dog clothes during this season. If you have a dog that is prone to shivering, consider purchasing them some warmer sweaters or hoodies to help them brave the cold this season. It can make a huge difference but remember not to leave them unattended when you do.
Protective Boots and Booties
If there is one universal clothing option that all dogs can benefit from in winter, it is boots and booties. Even huskies wear them while pulling sleds! A good set of boots can protect your pup’s paws against the snow and the ice, as well as the salt that they use to stop sidewalks from freezing over (this can be highly damaging for paws!). With a good set of winter booties, your pup’s paws can be protected, even if they love to spend time playing out in the snow.
Winter Dog Clothes to Help Your Pup Show Off Their Style
Dogs that love blending function and fashion need the right outfits to make it all possible. Fortunately, we pulled these seriously cute options together for you!
1. Metallic Bubble Dog Jacket
Make a Statement
FABULOUS & FASHIONABLE
Bubble jacket lined with soft cotton to keep your furbaby warm.
The perfect addition to your dog’s winter wardrobe, this adorable bubble jacket will be the talk of the dog park with this incredible design. Allow your dog to catch the attention of everyone around them while they also stay nice and warm, even on a late evening walk through the snow.
2. Puffer Dog Jacket with Detachable Hood
Battle the Cold
KEEP WARM
Awesome puffer jacket just what your pup needs to brave the chilly weather.
Some dogs love a good hood to cover their ears and others prefer to feel the cool breeze tickling their whiskers. With this jacket, we are giving you the opportunity to suit your dog no matter what their preference is. This warm and comfortable jacket can provide plenty of protection against cold winter air.
3. The Snuggle is Real Dog Hoodie
Cool & Functional
STREET WEAR
Cool hoodie featuring a slit so you can use your favorite harness and/or leash underneath.
Being a furbaby isn’t easy, and this hoodie really captures it all. With this adorable hoodie, your dog can be nice and cozy while they show off how ruff a dog’s life really is one nap, walk, and snuggle session at a time.
4. Nautical Dog Raincoat
Warm & Stylish
PERFECT FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Nautical-inspired rain jacket featuring a soft striped lining, drawstring hoodie and two back pockets.
There is nothing worse than a soggy doggy walking back in after a chilly walk, which is why we made this adorable coat to keep your pup dry–even in the rain! With this cute coat, your pup can easily strut their stuff and keep their fur coat dry when you head out on your regular walks. It’s fun, it’s themed, and it will keep your pup warm.
The Takeaway
Every dog you know has different needs when it comes to winter clothing, so don’t be surprised if you’re looking for something different for every dog in your family. Be sure to focus on helping your dog to stay warm, dry, and fabulous all season long. Dogs always deserve to look their best, and the right outfit can keep them warm and looking great!!
Until next time, thank you for reading!
About the author: Gabrielle is the loving pawrent to adorable pups Willow and Dilla. Growing up surrounded by dogs, she always dreamt of having her own. Willow and Dilla came into her life and changed everything. Now, she's crazy about pampered pooches, and her perfect day involves dancing with her husband, dressing up her furbabies, and cuddling them to sleep. For Gabrielle, life is all about spreading love and joy with her adorable canine companions by her side.
