Facts on Snow Clothes for Dogs

Dogs rely on their human friends.

Dressing a dog in snow clothes may seem a bit over the top, but if not protected from the harsh winter elements, dogs can get cold just like humans. Even though dogs have a built-in fur coat, a little extra covering is a good safety precaution to avoid hypothermia or localized frostbite. According to Drs. Foster & Smith, most frostbite occurs on the tail, ear tips, scrotum and toes. Fortunately, there are snow cloths for dogs to help keep them warm.

Booties

Frostbite on paws is common.

Snow, ice and salt on the sidewalk make dog booties necessary to help protect a dog's paws and pads. Booties come in sets of four and are typically made of fleece and/or nylon. Some booties come with a rubber sole for better insulation and traction. There are also booties to protect the legs that come in 2-inch, 4-inch and 8-inch heights. Snow and ice booties are secured with Velcro to ensure staying power. Most booties are machine washable. Booties are available for paw size measurements of 1.5 inches to 4 inches.

Sweaters

Sweaters help keep dogs dry and warm.

A dog sweater may be a necessity to help keep a dog warm. When purchasing a sweater, take the dog along to ensure the size is correct. A sweater that fits well should cover the dog's stomach snugly, be easy to get on and off and reach the base of the tail. Sweaters come in sizes from extra-extra small to extra-extra large. A small would fit a toy poodle and an extra-extra large would fit a Newfoundland. Dog sweaters are available in a variety of materials such as wool/argyle, nylon or cashmere. Nylon sweaters are machine washable whereas the wool and cashmere require hand-washing or dry-cleaning. Sweaters come in a rainbow of colors to blend with the dog's coat or stand out. Stripes, spots and checkered patterns are also available.

Sweatshirts and Hoodies

Sweatshirts are soft and keep the cold out.

Dog sweatshirts and hoodies should fit snugly and reach the base of the tail just like a sweater. Even though a dog's head does not necessarily need to be covered, the hoodie provides added protection if frostbite to ear tips is a concern. It's best to get a garment that goes on and comes off easily. Sweatshirts and hoodies range in sizes from extra small to extra large and come in a variety of colors, patterns and materials. Most have a Velcro closure.

Coats

Even with fur, dogs can get cold.

Dog coats are best used when the temperature is close to or below freezing and the dog will be outdoors for longer than 15 minutes. For maximum protection, purchase a dog coat that covers the dog from the neck to the base of the tail plus covers the chest and tummy. Dog coats come in a variety of styles and range from extra small to extra large sizes. It's best to purchase a coat with the dog present to ensure the best fit. Dog coats usually have a Velcro closure and come in materials ranging from fleece and faux fur to corduroy and fur-lined sheepskin.

Tip

Dog snow clothes allow for personality

If purchasing an item that may require dry cleaning, consider if the dog wearing it has any skin sensitivities or allergies that may become irritated.

References

• Doctors Foster & Smith-Pet Education-Frostbite on Dogs
• Unique Dog Clothing
• Hands-n-Paws

Resources

• Dog Boot Company