Do Dogs Really Need Sweaters in Winter? A Comfort Guide

Some dogs benefit from a sweater in winter, but not every dog needs one: coat thickness, body size, age, health, activity level, and the weather all matter. A small, short-haired dog may feel chilly on a brief walk, while a healthy dog with a thick double coat may be comfortable without extra clothing in the same conditions.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating do dogs need sweaters in winter.

Small dogs, lean dogs, dogs with short or thin coats, puppies, seniors, and dogs with certain health conditions can have a harder time staying warm, especially when they are standing still or walking in wind or damp weather. Watch your dog rather than relying on breed alone: shivering, lifting paws, slowing down, seeking shelter, or seeming reluctant to continue are signs to head indoors and warm up.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating which dogs may benefit most.

Choose a sweater that allows your dog to walk, sit, and relieve themselves normally, with openings that do not rub or restrict the neck, legs, or chest. Measure your dog’s neck, chest, and back length before choosing a size, and supervise the first few wears to make sure the garment stays in place without loose parts your dog could chew.

Remove the sweater once your dog is comfortably warm indoors, and take it off sooner if your dog pants excessively, seems distressed, or tries repeatedly to escape it. Keep the sweater clean and dry according to its care instructions, since wet clothing can leave your dog uncomfortable; our Warm Knitted Hooded Pet Sweater for Small Dogs and Cats is one option to consider for a smaller pet that needs an extra layer.

On cold days, start with shorter outings, choose sheltered routes when you can, and adjust the length of the walk to your dog’s comfort rather than expecting every dog to tolerate the same weather. Our team also recommends checking paws after walks for ice or deicing products and consulting your veterinarian if your dog seems unusually sensitive to cold; read more in our guide to dogs and winter sweaters.