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Do dogs need coats in winter? Small vs large dogs, explained
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Do dogs need coats in winter? Some do, and some really don't. Small and toy breeds, short-haired and lean dogs, hairless breeds, puppies, seniors and dogs with health problems like arthritis often benefit from a coat on cold walks. Healthy dogs with thick double coats, like Huskies, Malamutes and Bernese Mountain Dogs, were bred for the cold and usually don't need one (AKC, Cornell).
Below we go through small vs large dogs, the temperatures where a coat starts to matter in a Canadian winter, the signs your dog is cold, and how to make sure a coat actually fits. Everything comes from veterinary and animal-welfare sources, linked as we go. It's general information, not veterinary advice. If you're not sure whether your dog needs a coat, the AKC suggests asking your vet (AKC).
The short answer
- Usually needs a coat: small and toy breeds, hairless breeds, short-coated or lean dogs (Greyhounds, Whippets, Vizslas), clipped dogs like Poodles, and short-legged dogs whose bellies touch the snow (Dachshunds, Bassets, even Corgis) (AKC).
- Often benefits: puppies, seniors, underweight dogs and dogs with arthritis or other health conditions (AKC, Cornell).
- Usually fine without: healthy adults with thick double coats, like Huskies, Malamutes, Newfoundlands, Bernese and Saint Bernards (AKC).
- Every dog: watch for shivering, lifted paws or a dog who won't walk, and head inside (Cornell).
Decided your dog needs one? Our best winter coats for dogs guide compares a puffer for small dogs, a waterproof coat for large breeds and a coat with a built-in harness.
Why some dogs need coats and others don't
Cold tolerance depends on a dog's age, size, body condition, health and coat thickness (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine). Thick double coats insulate. Thin, short or clipped fur doesn't do much. Small dogs lose body heat faster than big dogs, and bigger dogs also sit higher off the frozen ground (RSPCA).
Being used to the cold matters too. Cornell notes that a dog who isn't conditioned for cold, such as one who just moved from a warmer place or is caught by a sudden cold snap, will cope less well with winter. So the first real cold week of the season is a good time to watch your dog closely, even if they're a "tough" breed.
Do small dogs need winter coats?
Most of the time, yes. The AKC says small and toy breeds often benefit from coats in cold weather because their size makes it hard for them to hold on to body heat (AKC). Cornell agrees that small dogs have a harder time staying warm than larger breeds (Cornell). Think Chihuahuas and small terriers, which the PDSA says can feel the cold quickly (PDSA).
Small dogs are also close to the snow. A coat that covers most of the body helps keep snowballs from building up on the belly and chest of small dogs (Cornell). And even with a coat, keep outings short when it's below freezing: an AKC-quoted veterinarian suggests about 10 to 15 minutes below 0°C (32°F) for small and hairless breeds (AKC).
For a small dog who feels the cold, a padded puffer with a fleece lining is a good everyday choice for snowy walks.
A puffy winter coat with three layers, a fleece lining and a fold-up collar, plus a leash hole for a harness underneath. Sizes XS to L, for dogs like Dachshunds, Frenchies and Chihuahuas.
Keep your pup cozy →Opens on Amazon.com
Do large dogs need winter coats?
It depends on the coat, not just the size. The AKC says large breeds with thick coats are generally protected from the cold, and some, like Alaskan Malamutes, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards and Siberian Huskies, were bred specifically for snow and cold (AKC). Most of these dogs are happier without a coat.
But plenty of big dogs still feel the cold. The AKC lists these large and medium dogs as likely to need a coat (AKC):
- Lean, short-coated dogs like Greyhounds, Whippets and Azawakhs
- High-energy, short-coated sporting dogs like Vizslas and German Shorthaired Pointers, who can chill quickly in snow
- Standard Poodles and other clipped dogs, who've lost the insulation of a full coat
- Large seniors, and dogs with arthritis or other chronic conditions
Wet weather is the other reason. The AKC notes that even dogs who don't get cold easily can benefit from a raincoat in wet climates (AKC), which makes a waterproof coat useful in rainy West Coast winters for dogs of any size. Cornell also suggests not shaving or clipping your dog's fur too short in winter (Cornell).
For larger dogs, look for a coat that comes in big sizes and is actually waterproof, like this plaid coat that runs up to Labrador and Golden Retriever sizes.
This windproof, waterproof coat is reversible with double fleece and comes in 7 sizes, up to large breeds. Hook-and-loop closures make it quick to put on.
Shop the coat →Opens on Amazon.com
Small vs large dogs at a glance
| Your dog | Coat in winter? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small or toy breed | Usually yes | Loses body heat fast and sits close to the snow |
| Short-legged (Dachshund, Basset, Corgi) | Often | Belly gets wet and cold in snow |
| Large, lean or short-coated (Greyhound, Vizsla) | Usually yes | Little fur or body fat to insulate |
| Clipped coat (Poodles) | Often | Clipping removes natural insulation |
| Large, thick double coat (Husky, Malamute, Bernese) | Usually no | Bred for snow and cold |
| Puppy or senior of any size | Often | Less able to stay warm |
Based on the AKC, Cornell and RSPCA. Every dog is an individual, so use this as a starting point and watch how your own dog copes.
What temperature do dogs need a coat?
There isn't one exact temperature that's too cold for every dog, according to an AKC-quoted veterinarian (AKC). Cornell's rule of thumb is simple: if it's too cold for you, it's likely too cold for your dog (Cornell). For Canadian winters, these numbers from the sources are the useful ones:
- Around 0°C (32°F) and below: the RSPCA says that once it's freezing, all dogs are at risk of hypothermia and frostbite, especially small, slim, young and old dogs and those with little or no fur (RSPCA). This is when the dogs in our "usually yes" rows really need their coat.
- Small and hairless breeds below 0°C: keep outings to about 10 to 15 minutes (AKC).
- Windchill below about −7°C (20°F): keep play to short 15 to 20 minute sessions, then let your dog warm up inside (AKC).
A coat makes those short walks more comfortable. It doesn't make long walks in deep cold safe. For more on cutoffs by size and age, see our tip on how cold is too cold for dogs.
Do puppies and old dogs need coats in winter?
Puppies: Cornell explains that puppies can't properly regulate their body temperature and have very little body fat, so they feel the cold more (Cornell). Keep winter outings short, and a coat can help on cold potty breaks and early walks.
Senior dogs: the AKC says senior dogs of all breeds and sizes are more susceptible to the cold than healthy adults, and dogs with arthritis may benefit from a coat (AKC). The RSPCA adds that cold weather can make arthritic joints stiffer and more painful (RSPCA). If your older dog is slower to get up on cold days, mention it to your vet.
Underweight dogs and dogs with medical conditions can also struggle to stay warm (Cornell). If your dog has a health condition, ask your vet how long they should be out in the cold.
Do short-haired dogs need coats in winter?
Usually, yes. Short and thin-coated breeds don't tolerate cold as well as thick double-coated breeds (Cornell), and the RSPCA lists dogs with thin or short fur among those that need winter coats (RSPCA). That includes some medium and large dogs, like Vizslas, Greyhounds and Whippets, not just the little ones (AKC).
Signs your dog is cold
Cornell lists these signs that a dog isn't coping with the cold. If you see them, get your dog somewhere warm and dry (Cornell):
- Shivering
- Whining or barking
- A tucked tail or hunched posture
- Lifting paws off the ground
- Not wanting to keep walking
- Suddenly anxious behaviour
Prolonged cold can lead to frostbite or hypothermia, which can be life-threatening. If you think your dog has either, see a vet right away (Cornell). Our how cold is too cold for dogs tip lists the early and later hypothermia signs.
Do dogs need sweaters indoors?
Most don't. The PDSA, a UK veterinary charity, says most dogs won't need a coat indoors and can quickly overheat in a centrally heated home. Some dogs appreciate a light, breathable layer if the house is chilly, but check they don't get too warm (PDSA). The RSPCA suggests keeping indoor temperatures between about 10°C and 25°C for dogs (RSPCA).
A thin fleece vest is the in-between option: enough for a cool basement or a quick trip outside, and light enough to layer under a winter coat on the coldest days.
A soft, lightweight fleece vest that slips on over the head, with a built-in leash ring. Made for small dogs; it runs small, so measure and size up.
Get one for your pup →Opens on Amazon.com
If your dog starts panting or seeking out cool floors, take the layer off.
How to tell if a dog coat fits
- Measure first. You'll usually need the back length (base of the neck to the base of the tail), the widest part of the chest and the neck (PDSA, AKC). Sizes vary a lot between brands.
- Snug, not tight. Your dog should be able to walk, run, play and go to the bathroom normally (AKC, RSPCA).
- Not too loose either. A baggy coat can tangle while your dog plays (AKC).
- Watch the reaction. Biting or scratching at the coat, or rubbing on the floor, can mean it doesn't fit or is irritating them (PDSA).
- Introduce it slowly. Let your dog get used to the coat indoors with treats before the first cold walk (AKC).
Our winter coats guide has fit tips for each coat we feature.
Keep coats dry and clean
Damp fur can make a dog feel cold, so dry your dog fully after wet walks (RSPCA). Wash coats regularly too: they collect hair and dander and can harbour bacteria, especially if put away damp after snow (AKC). If your dog walks every day in slush, a second coat to swap in while one dries is handy.
Don't forget paws
A coat keeps the body warm, but paws take the salt. Wipe your dog's paws, legs and belly after winter walks to remove salt and de-icers (Cornell, AVMA). For wax-before and balm-after options, see our guide to the best paw balm for dogs in winter.
Our take
So, do dogs need coats in winter? A small, short-haired, lean, clipped, young or senior dog usually does. A healthy Husky or Bernese usually doesn't. Size matters, but coat type matters just as much: a big, lean Greyhound can need a coat as much as a tiny Chihuahua. Watch your own dog, keep walks short when it's below freezing, and ask your vet if you're not sure.
Ready to choose? Our best winter coats for dogs guide compares three coats for Canadian winters, from small dogs to large breeds. Sources: AKC, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, RSPCA, PDSA, AKC.
Frequently asked questions
Do dogs need coats in winter?
Some do. Small and toy breeds, hairless, short-haired and lean dogs, clipped dogs, puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions often benefit from a coat on cold walks. Healthy dogs with thick double coats, like Huskies and Malamutes, usually don't need one.
Do small dogs need winter coats?
Usually, yes. Small dogs lose body heat faster and sit close to the snow. The AKC says small and toy breeds often benefit from coats, and an AKC-quoted vet suggests keeping outings for small breeds to about 10 to 15 minutes below 0°C (32°F).
Do large dogs need winter coats?
Large dogs with thick double coats usually don't. Large dogs that are lean or short-coated, like Greyhounds and Vizslas, clipped Standard Poodles, seniors and dogs with arthritis often do. A raincoat can also help any dog in wet weather.
What temperature does a dog need a coat?
There's no single temperature for every dog. The RSPCA says that at freezing (0°C) all dogs are at risk of hypothermia and frostbite, especially small, slim, young and old dogs. That's when dogs who feel the cold most need a coat, and walks should stay short.
Do puppies need coats in winter?
Puppies can't regulate their body temperature well and have little body fat, so they feel the cold more. Keep outings short, and a coat can help on cold walks.
Do dogs need sweaters indoors?
Most dogs don't, and they can overheat in a heated home. A light, breathable layer can help in a chilly house, but take it off if your dog seems warm.
How do I know if my dog is cold?
Shivering, whining, a tucked tail or hunched posture, lifting paws, not wanting to walk and sudden anxious behaviour are all signs. Get your dog somewhere warm, and call your vet if you think it could be hypothermia or frostbite.
About this article
Written by the Snout & Tail Co. team using product listings and widely accepted pet-care guidance. We don't claim to have tested products ourselves, and this isn't veterinary advice. If your pet has a health concern, talk to your vet. How we pick · Disclosure
Want more ideas? Best winter coats for dogs has our full shortlist.