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Winter Health Kit

Old Timer, Yucca & Heal Care Ointment

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Choosing the Right Winter Clothes for Dogs

Lifestyles of the Furry & Fabulous 3 min read
A dog dressed in winter clothes.

Has your dog ever begged to go outside, only to change their mind once they realize it’s cold? As the winter weather rolls in, we’re starting to feel the same way! That’s why choosing the right winter clothes for dogs is an important task for pet parents.

Beyond comfort, winter clothes can help protect our pups against some winter dangers

Unlike us, dogs can’t bundle up by themselves or communicate that they need an extra layer to stay warm. And beyond comfort, winter clothes can help protect our pups against some winter dangers: the cold weather can pose certain risks to dogs (like hypothermia) and sometimes worsen existing health conditions, like asthma or bronchitis. That’s why being prepared with some winter gear is important; not only will it help them stay comfortable during winter chills, but it can also help stay them safe.

Choosing winter clothes for dogs can be as fun as it is important, as you can find stylish fits that will make them feel pampered! As you shop around, here are three things to keep in mind.

1. Consider the Breed – Hot Husky or Chilly Chihuahua?

Different pups have different tolerances for the cold. A husky is basically built for the icy chills but shorthaired breeds like chihuahuas and greyhounds don’t have thick coats and are more likely to need warmer threads.

Size matters too. Smaller dogs tend to lose heat more easily, so you should opt for coats that provide full-body coverage.

2. Get a Proper Fit

The way clothes fit is not only important for your pet’s comfort but also for their safety! Clothes that are too tight can restrict your pup’s movement, breathing, or ability to go to the bathroom. Clothing with Velcro or other adjustable straps can be a good choice since they allow you to get the perfect fit.

To take your pup’s measurements, measure the widest part of their chest, and then the length from the back of the neck to the base of the tail. These two measurements will help guide your choices for most dog clothing brands.

Don’t measure your pet directly with a metal tape measurer, since those can be sharp and slide back unexpectedly. Instead, use a string and then compare that to the tape measurer to keep your pet comfortable.

Top Tip: Pups should be supervised when clothed. If they show signs of discomfort, remove their clothing.

3. Don’t Forget the Feet

Icy conditions can cause slips, the cold can cause frostbite, and the snow can obscure rocks and other hazards – so don’t forget those precious toe beans!

Doggie shoes should also have a good fit. They should snug so as not to fall off or causes your pup an accidental slip, but not overly tight so that they restrict blood flow. It’s a good idea to give your pooch a break every couple hours too for the same reason.

If your pup absolutely refuses to wear booties no matter how hard you try, always wipe their feet when they get back inside. The salt and chemicals used to de-ice sidewalks and streets can be harmful if ingested.

To add an additional layer of protection on bare paws, you can use NHV Heal Care before heading out. It’s helpful for paw pads that will face the snow, ice-salt, and dryness in the wintery outdoors.

4. Leave It to The (Pet) Experts

NHV’s recently opened pet boutique offers an array of safe and cozy – yet fabulously fashionable! – dog clothes for winter. If you are located in the Vancouver BC area, you can stop by for one-on-one consultation with our pet experts for the latest and greatest in doggy fashion and winter-proof technology.

Our boutique also offers Canada-wide shipping through our website, for all the Canadian NHV fans out there!

No matter if your pup loves love romping in the snow, appears completely indifferent to cold, and runs back inside at their first chance, it’s important to be prepared with the right dog clothes and know how to choose them.

NHV Pet Experts

NHV Pet Experts

We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.

Published: October 25, 2024

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