If you’re like most people, you’ve probably found yourself wondering if it’s really necessary to put your dog in a sweater. Clothes for dogs may seem like just a cute trend that’s more for the owner’s benefit than the dog’s. After all, dogs have their own built-in "fur coats" that should be more than enough to keep them warm, right? Well, that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, there are instances where dogs can actually benefit from wearing an extra layer in cold or wet weather. So if you’re trying to decide whether to get your dog a sweater, read below for helpful advice from Peak Legacy Ranch in Peyton, CO.
How do you know when a sweater is a good choice?
While larger breeds with thick coats like Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and St. Bernards don’t require any extra insulation, smaller breeds, those with lean builds and those with short fur or no fur, like Pugs, Greyhounds, Whippets, and Chinese Crested may actually benefit from wearing a sweater in cool weather. The same could be true for dogs who are shaved to avoid matting, like Poodles, or for puppies, senior dogs and those with Cushing’s disease or other illnesses that impair hair growth.
If you do decide to get a sweater to help your dog stay warm while out on walks or just hanging around the house, Peak Legacy Ranch in Peyton, CO has some important factors to consider:
- Measure your dog carefully to ensure you are getting the proper size. Pay particular attention to the length from neck to the middle of the back, width of the largest part of the chest and width of the neck. You want a sweater that’s not too tight or too loose. It should allow freedom of movement but not be so big that it can get snagged on anything or allow the dog to become tangled in it and potentially get hurt.
- Choose a fabric that’s comfortable and won’t cause itching or skin irritation. Usually a wool/synthetic blend or cotton is the best bet as it will stand up to both wear and washing.
- Make sure that any sweater you buy is washable. Like your own clothes, it’s important to wash your pet’s sweater regularly in order to keep it clean, healthy and sanitary. You might want to invest in more than one sweater so that you can rotate and keep them clean.
- Avoid buying any sweaters with extra parts like tags, zippers, buttons or hooks as these can become a chewing hazard.
- Make sure there is an opening to allow easy attachment of a leash or harness.
- Avoid leaving your dog unattended while wearing a sweater as they can sometimes become entangled in them or get caught on something, which can result in injury.
If your dog seems hesitant to wear a sweater, ease them into the idea by letting them see and smell the sweater before putting it on, then giving them treats as you put the sweater on so they have a good association with it. You can also engage in play time or take them for a walk once they have it on to also help form a good association. And always remember to praise them at each step along the way.
Wearing a sweater can be more than just a fashion statement, it is often helpful for short-haired breeds, seniors, puppies and dogs who are ill. If you have any questions about whether a sweater is necessary for your particular dog, don’t hesitate to check with your vet, who should be able to give you helpful advice. Here at Peak Legacy Ranch in Peyton, Colorado we want every dog to be happy and healthy, even if that means gearing up for cold weather with a comfy sweater!
