Dogs are some of the pets that have formed the closest bonds with their owners. In a process known as domestication, dogs became used to a comfortable lifestyle co-existing with humans, and thus have lost many of their natural coping mechanisms for harsh weather conditions, such as winter.
Winter jackets for dogs are some of the effective ways to help your dog resist the associated conditions with extreme cold such as hypothermia and frost bite. This article discusses further on why your dog should wear a jacket this winter:
1. Age
Similar to humans, dog health deteriorates with age. Older dogs struggle with a host of diseases such arthritis, heart diseases, kidneys, and allergies that are compounded by the presence of cold. As their immune systems weaken with age, older dogs are the most prone to hypothermia in the cold winter periods. Their internal tolerance to extreme weather changes is also greatly diminished due to a poor heat regulatory system decline which reduces with age.
Younger puppies are also more vulnerable as well as they are just developing a thick fur coat but are not yet fully grown in. As such, they also need to wear a winter jacket to prevent the entry of cold into their body system.
2. Weather and Time Outside
An important thing to consider is the typical climate condition your dog will be exposed to during the winter. Dog owners who live temperate regions where winter arrives and temperatures reach around freezing level can protect their dogs against the cold with the aid of a basic jacket or sweater. However, if you live in regions farther north like in Canada, you should buy dog jackets Canada to provide your dog with more insulated and heavy-duty winter wear. Your dog can benefit from the additional layer of insulation the jacket provides.
3. Breed
Smaller breeds such as chihuahuas, dachshunds, and tiny pugs are the most prone to extreme cold attacks in the winter because they lack large body masses and have thinner natural coats as they are originally from regions that don’t get as cold. As such dogs can’t retain a sufficient heat to keep themselves warm in the winter.
Dog breeds that have less body fat such as greyhounds and whippets should also use a winter jacket to prevent cold attacks. Hairless breeds especially, such as Chinese Crested Dogs, can make use of a good winter jacket.
4. Health Status
The main reason why a dog might need to have their coat kept on at all times for the winter months is because it’s very important to make sure that they are properly covered to protect their health condition.
Dogs are more at risk to experience health issues like hypothermia and pneumonia when the weather is cold and rainy. You should have the protective covering for your pet at such times, even if you know that they’re healthy right now, in order to keep your dog as healthy as possible. Watch out for these winter sickness and allergy symptoms:
- Hair loss and heavy nose discharges which may cause sneezing
- Waxy discharge with a bad odor from the ear
- Itchy effects around the paws and in the feet
- Red skin coloration around the belly, elbow, and groin
If any of these symptoms escalated or persist for more than a few days, consult your local veterinarian.
5. Coat Characteristics
Bear in mind that different breeds of dogs can have different needs when it comes to their coats, so you should know which is the right choice for your dog. Do some research and make sure that your dog will benefit from the coat. If you keep your dog warm during the cold weather and also have a nice coat to wear, you will be able to enjoy a long life with your pet as well as enjoying him.
Conclusion
Dogs are affected by winter cold because of their domestication, and they deserve appropriate care to get through the season. A good way to care for your dog is a winter jacket. The first consideration to determine this need in your dog is age because older dogs are more susceptible to cold. The weather severity and the time to be spent outdoors should be a guide to determine a need for a winter jacket. Specific breeds are in need of these jackets than others. The health condition of your dog should serve as a guide as well. Lastly, consider the characteristics of your dog’s coat to determine your dog’s need for a jacket in the winter. After all, you want to treat your best friend as well as they treat you.
