Does My Dog Need a Coat in Winter? A UK Owner's Guide

Quick answer: not every dog needs a coat. Dogs with thick double coats, such as Huskies, Labradors and German Shepherds, usually cope well with a typical British winter. Small dogs, short-haired breeds, sighthounds like Greyhounds and Whippets, puppies, elderly dogs and dogs with health conditions often benefit from a jumper or waterproof coat when it's cold, wet or windy.

The British winter is more often wet and windy than freezing, which is why a waterproof layer can be just as useful as a warm one. Here is how to decide whether your dog needs a coat, and how to choose the right one.

Dogs that usually benefit from a winter coat

• Small and toy breeds: Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Pinschers and other small dogs lose body heat quickly and are closer to cold, wet ground.
• Short or single-coated breeds: Staffies, Boxers, French Bulldogs, Dachshunds and Pugs have little natural insulation.
• Sighthounds: Greyhounds, Whippets, Lurchers and Italian Greyhounds have thin skin, very little body fat and short coats. They feel the cold more than most. Their deep chest and narrow waist need a specially shaped coat, like our raincoat for Greyhounds and Whippets.
• Hairless and clipped dogs: recently groomed or naturally hairless dogs.
• Puppies and senior dogs: both find it harder to regulate their body temperature.
• Dogs with health conditions: arthritis, thyroid problems, heart conditions or recovery from illness can all make the cold harder to bear. Ask your vet if you are unsure.

Dogs that usually don't need a coat

Breeds with thick, double coats, such as Huskies, Malamutes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Newfoundlands, Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Collies, are generally well insulated. Putting a heavy coat on these dogs can make them overheat. A light waterproof can still be handy to keep them drier, and keep your car and house cleaner, on very wet walks.

Signs your dog is cold

• Shivering or trembling
• Hunched posture, with tail tucked
• Lifting paws off the ground
• Slowing down, or reluctant to keep walking
• Looking for shelter or trying to turn home

Types of dog coats

Fleece jumpers

Soft, warm and easy to put on, fleece jumpers like our patterned fleece jumper for small dogs are ideal for chilly dry days and for keeping small dogs cosy indoors. The hoodie with a teddy in the pocket is a fun alternative.

Raincoats

Lightweight and waterproof, raincoats keep dogs dry without overheating. They are ideal for typical British drizzle. Large dogs will look brilliant in our dinosaur raincoat.

Padded winter coats

Insulated, often with a waterproof outer layer, these are best for small, short-haired or elderly dogs on cold winter walks.

Leg warmers and snoods

For tiny dogs or sighthounds, knitted leg warmers and snoods add warmth where it's needed.

Browse all dog clothing.

How to measure your dog for a coat

1. Back length: measure from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail.
2. Chest: measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.
3. Neck: measure around the neck where the collar sits.

Compare these measurements with the size chart on each product. If your dog is between sizes, go up a size for deep-chested breeds. For harness sizing, see how to measure your dog for a harness.

Tips for wearing a coat comfortably

• Check the fit: you should be able to slide two fingers under the coat at the neck and chest.
• Make sure it doesn't rub under the front legs or restrict movement.
• Choose a coat with a harness opening if you walk your dog on a harness.
• Take the coat off indoors to avoid overheating.
• Dry your dog after wet walks, paying attention to paws and between the toes.
• Choose reflective details or a light for dark winter evenings.

Winter walk safety

Grit and salt on pavements can irritate paws, so rinse and dry your dog's feet after walks. Antifreeze is very toxic and tastes sweet to pets, so clean up any spills straight away. Keep walks shorter on very cold days for vulnerable dogs.

Frequently asked questions

At what temperature does a dog need a coat?

There's no single number, as it depends on breed, size, age and health. Small, short-haired and elderly dogs may benefit from a coat when it drops below around 7°C, especially if it's also wet or windy. Watch your dog for signs of being cold.

Do Greyhounds need coats?

Usually, yes. Greyhounds and Whippets have very little body fat and thin coats, so most owners use a coat in autumn and winter.

Can my dog wear a coat indoors?

Generally it's best to remove it indoors to avoid overheating, unless your dog is hairless, unwell or your vet advises otherwise.

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