Baby, it’s cold outside! As temperatures drop, many of our esteemed dog people wonder whether their dog truly needs a coat or if it is simply a fashion trend. We all have to look good, but is it really necessary? Maybe. A deeper dive here: the answer lies in canine biology, breed differences, and individual health factors. Dog coats are not one-size-fits-all—but for many dogs they may play a meaningful role in staying warm, dry, and comfortable during cold weather.
I have a golden retriever and have never used a coat, until a trip to Montreal recently. It was 8 degrees outside! In anticipation of the frigid north, we bought him a coat. At 8 degrees, I figured it was appropriate to add a bit of warmth to Calvin.
By trapping a layer of still air close to the dog’s body, a coat allows the dog’s own metabolism to warm that air. Think of it as adding a layer of insulation. This warm air layer slows the loss of body heat to the surrounding cold environment. The mechanism is similar to how human winter clothing works — it is not the fabric itself that creates heat, but the trapped air it holds in place This external insulation can be especially helpful for dogs that lose body heat quickly or struggle to regulate their temperature in winter conditions.
Differentials
Not all dogs are equally equipped for cold weather. Research using infrared thermography has shown clear differences in body surface temperatures among dogs with different coat types. Short-haired dogs tend to have higher surface temperatures than long-haired or double-coated dogs, which indicates that heat is escaping more rapidly from their bodies. This supports the use of coats for short-haired breeds, as they lack the natural insulation needed to conserve warmth.
In contrast, long-haired and double-coated dogs generally show lower surface temperatures, demonstrating the effectiveness of their natural fur at trapping heat. Dogs you associate with cold weather are usually tolerant of extreme temperatures and usually don’t need extra protection: Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards.
Wet fur is a particular problem: snow can cling to the coat, melt indoors, and leave the dog damp. Wet fur mats down and interferes with heat retention, making it harder for the dog to stay warm even after returning inside. Using a towel to dry a dog thoroughly after walks—and avoiding putting on a coat that is still damp from a previous outing.
Puppies and senior dogs are also more vulnerable to cold. Puppies lack the fat reserves and metabolic efficiency that help adult dogs generate heat, while older dogs may have weaker muscles, stiff joints, or chronic conditions such as arthritis that make cold weather more uncomfortable. For these dogs, a winter coat can reduce stress on the body and conserve energy.
Hairless breeds, including American Hairless Terriers, Chinese Cresteds, and Xoloitzcuintlis, typically require coats whenever temperatures drop. Similarly, dogs that are regularly clipped, such as Poodles, or any dog whose coat has been shaved, lose their natural insulation and may chill quickly outdoors.
Lean, short-coated breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, and Vizslas often benefit from coats despite being active dogs. Their body type and minimal fat make heat retention difficult in cold environments. Low-to-the-ground breeds, such as Dachshunds and Basset Hounds, may also struggle because their bellies easily become wet from snow and ice. Smaller breeds have less insulation and a high surface area ration, meaning they lose heat much more quickly than a large dog.
What Kind of Coat
Selecting an appropriate coat depends on weather conditions and your dog’s needs. Lightweight jackets are useful in cool but not frigid temperatures, while insulated coats are better for snow and severe cold. For the Mid-Atlantic, lighter coats are better than heavy layers. Raincoats can be helpful when dank and cool, helping to keep dogs dry and reduce grooming time. For maximum protection, snowsuits or bodysuits provide coverage over the body and legs, which is especially helpful for hairless or lean dogs. But good luck putting one on! These are usually not needed in our area.
Fit is crucial. A good coat should allow free movement without being loose enough to snag or shift. Measuring your dog’s back length and chest circumference before purchasing helps ensure comfort and safety.
While coats protect the body, dog booties can help safeguard paws. Winter sidewalks and roads are often treated with salt and ice-melting chemicals, which can irritate paw pads or cause injury. Booties reduce contact with these substances and provide traction on slippery surfaces. For most winter days, booties aren’t needed, but when we were in Canada, the sidewalks were covered in salt, and even Calvin’s furry feet couldn’t keep the salt from getting between his toes.
Regular cleaning of winter coats is equally important. Coats can trap hair, dander, moisture, and bacteria if stored damp. And stink. Choosing machine-washable materials and laundering coats regularly helps prevent skin irritation and keeps winter gear safe to use. Be sure to use extra rinse when washing.
Does your dog need a coat here in DC? Probably not. But if they have no hair, are tiny, or simply look cold, buy a coat! But be certain it is fashionable—we are watching, and judging.
Dan Teich, DVM, is the Founder of District Veterinary Hospitals
