Does your dog need a sweater?
Hi there, and happy new year! I’m Keegan, a dog walker in north Park Slope.
I’m excited to start the winter season of City Pooch, a weekly newsletter for dog parents and dog people in Brooklyn. Each week, we’ll look at a new aspect of dog parenting in the city. But first, I’ll feature a pup of the week.
Today I’d like you to meet Atticus! He’s a miniature dachshund I’ve walked since he was ten weeks old. It’s satisfying and bittersweet to watch a puppy learn and grow into their adult self. Atticus is turning three this month – let’s wish him a happy birthday!
This week, we’re talking about winter gear: sweaters, jackets, and coats. When does your dog really need one?
A few rules of thumb
While some dogs are bred to withstand cold temps, the American Veterinary Medical Association says it’s a myth that dogs are more resistant to the cold than we are.
Three major factors that influence how well a dog can handle the cold are its coat, build, and height. A small, slim, short-haired dog (imagine a shivering chihuahua) will probably appreciate a sweater if there’s any nip in the air at all. On the other hand, a husky or Saint Bernard will be much happier in the cold — they have an extra layer built in.
Of course, size isn’t everything. Large, slender breeds like Great Danes and greyhounds can be wimps when the temperature drops. Stocky dogs with short legs are at risk too because their bellies (and ears if we’re talking basset hounds) can drag the snowy ground. It’s worth noting that poodles and doodle mixes might have fluffy coats, but they don’t retain much heat. They’ll welcome a jacket in the wintertime.
Though dogs vary individually, here are my rules of thumb:
Above 50°F: all good!
50°-32°F: consider a jacket if your dog gets cold easily
Below 32°F: put on an extra layer
Below 20°F: shorten time outside
If it’s snowy or icy outside, consider something with a waterproof fabric. A wet sweater is colder than no sweater at all! If you don’t have anything water resistant, keep a couple of sweaters in rotation so your pup always has something dry.
Let your dog tell you
The best thing a dog parent can do is pay attention to any behavioral cues that your dog is too cold (or too hot). Get your pup inside or in something warm right away if you notice any of the following signs:
Whimpering, shivering, or other signs of anxiety
Slow movement or weakness
Seeking warmth or a place to burrow
If it’s above freezing and you decide to put your dog in a coat or sweater, keep an eye out for signs of overheating: excessive panting or drooling. When I’m out walking dogs all day in the winter, I’ll unzip or take off an outer layer as I warm up from moving around. If you’re out for a long winter walk, your dog might warm up, too.
About City Pooch
Thanks for reading this issue of City Pooch! Please share with your dog-loving friends — especially if they live in Park Slope. I have openings for a couple of new weekday walking clients to add to my route. If you know anyone who might be interested, please get in touch at citypoochnyc@gmail.com.
In future issues, I’ll be covering common questions I get from my clients and the City Pooch community. I’d love to hear from you! If you have a question, please reply to this email or reach out to me at citypoochnyc@gmail.com.
