Many pet owners mistakenly believe that all any dog needs to stay warm and dry is its own coat. That might have been true years ago when dogs lived in their natural environments and spent most of their time outdoors. But if you take a Chihuahua, a breed acclimatized to warm weather, and move it to New England, for example, its own coat won't be enough; it would be like wearing a spring jacket in a snowstorm.
It's not that all dogs need overcoats, but some do. It's a dog owner's responsibility to provide a coat if needed. Just like some dogs need dog cages and crates and others need dog beds, some dogs need coats or jackets.
Let's take a look at some of the dog coats available at online pet stores. Luxury dog coats have faux fur lining, rear leg straps, and Velcro straps for maximum adjustability. They are waterproof, windproof, and breathability-important qualities for warmth and comfort. They come in all sorts of colors and various sizes.
Camouflage dog coats make a fashion statement, and they keep dogs warm. With fake fur linings they are water resistant, windproof, washable, and breathable. Rear leg straps keep the coat in place and adjustable Velcro straps ensure a good fit.
For dogs that walk on the road, reflective Hi Vis dog coats help keep them visible and safe. Weather resistant and quilt-lined coats keep dogs warm and dry. Fully adjustable straps maximize comfort and fit. Sizes range from 12 inches to 30 inches.
For the dog that likes luxury, a cable knit cape is a good choice for a winter walk. With a cape there is no band around the belly to interfere with the dog's gait, which may be particularly important for short-legged canines. Elastic fasteners at the faux fur-trimmed neck make for easy on and off.
Heavy-duty parkas fit the bill for dogs that need extra protection from winter chills. Longer than typical dog jackets, parkas cover halfway down the hind legs. Removable hoods keep heads and ears warm.
A cotton duck jacket lined with Berber is classic dog wear. This basic style has a reflective stripe for visibility and comes in traditional colors like black and camel. Nothing fancy here, just warm and comfy.
Polyester fleece makes soft and warm dog jackets. Some fleece jackets provide full belly coverage, an important consideration for dogs without much belly fur. Leash openings and storage pockets are handy extra features.
Depending on the dog, it may be necessary to try a few coats before finding one he or she will accept. The first step toward finding the right jacket is choosing the right size. Sizes are based on the length of the dog's back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. If the measurement is between sizes it's a good idea to order up rather than down. And, if the dog has a stout physique or is overweight, ordering up at least one size will help ensure a proper fit.
