Creature Feature

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette cold dog illustration.
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette cold dog illustration.

This may seem like a stupid question, but I want to know if my dog needs to wear a sweater in the winter. Bella is a medium-size dog with short hair. I've seen her shiver when I take her outside when the temperature really drops and I don't want her to be cold. I always thought clothes on a dog were silly but am changing my opinion.

Let's get this out of the way first: There are no stupid questions when it comes to our pets. While clothing dogs may seem frivolous to some, when it comes to protecting them from frostbite or just keeping them warm, an appropriate garment is actually practical.

Dogs that have a thick layer (or two) of fur -- German shepherd, Alaskan malamutes, chows and huskies, for instance -- or are genetically suited for colder climates can get by without the extra protection a sweater or jacket offers. But others can use a little help. My 14-year-old Chihuahua always wears a sweater when I take her out for potty breaks in the winter. Without one, she may become chilled quickly. She's not thrilled about wearing a sweater, but she does appear more comfortable.

Short-haired dogs aren't the only ones that can benefit from winter clothing, according to petmd.com. Elderly dogs as well as dogs with impaired immune systems or other health problems may need added insulation indoors and outdoors. Dogs whose fur is kept cropped (poodles come to mind) may also need outerwear during the winter.

Choosing winter garb for a dog involves many of the same decisions as choosing our clothing, although cuteness or style should be lowest on the list. Before you go clothes shopping, make sure you know your dog's size -- not just if she's extra-small, medium, large or extra-large, but her actual measurements. Dog clothing sizing is inexact; you may think Bella is a medium dog, but when you measure her, she might qualify for a garment labeled small or even large.

Measuring guides abound online so you can easily find a visual aid. Generally, though, you need to measure the dog's length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Next, measure the dog's girth by putting the tape measure behind the front legs and around the rib cage. Also measure the width of the neck.

Measurements can help when choosing a size, but you'll still have to determine if a particular garment is suitable for your dog. The leg holes can be an issue because they're sometimes too close together or too far apart. You may want to take Bella to the store with you so you can at least hold the garments up to her and eyeball the fit.

When fitting, consider that the garment's length should end at the waist area to leave the lower body and back legs free. Also, make sure the garment doesn't drag the ground or have any embellishments that could be chewed and swallowed. While hoods look cute, they are impractical because they impair the dog's vision. Dogs don't seem to care for high or especially thick collars such as turtlenecks. Sweaters are usually pulled over the head so make sure they have enough stretch so this isn't difficult. Regarding fasteners, avoid metal hooks, snaps and zippers; hook-and-loop fabric fasteners are the most practical.

Beyond size, consider the type of fabric, petmd.com advises. While wool is warm, it may not be practical or it might make your dog itch. If you think you'll need to launder a garment often, choose a blend of washable wool, cotton or acrylic.

Practical considerations aside, shopping for doggy clothes can be fun. There's a lot to choose from these days. We hope you and Bella have fun -- and keep warm.

Family on 01/27/2016

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