At what temperature does a dog need a sweater?

Q: How cold is too cold for a dog?

Below 32°F, small dogs, thin-coated dogs, and very young, older or sick dogs may be at risk during long stretches outside. Below 20°F, any dog can develop hypothermia or frostbite during a long stay outside.

Public Pups · $99.99 · Sizes 2XS–2XL · Commissioned Production

Megan in the Sand & Ivory cardigan with Bennie the Yorkie Poo in the Clubhouse Purple dog sweater

At about 45°F and below, a dog that feels the cold may need a sweater. Most dogs aren’t bothered by the cold until the temperature falls below 45°F. Small dogs, thin-coated dogs, puppies, older dogs and dogs with health conditions feel it first.

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Temperature guidance: PetMD, written and reviewed by Jennifer Coates, DVM.

How cold is too cold for a dog?

Above 45°F: Cold isn’t a problem for most dogs.
Below 45°F: Dogs that dislike the cold may start to feel uncomfortable. A sweater helps dogs with thin coats on chilly days.
Below 32°F: Small dogs, thin-coated dogs, and very young, older or sick dogs may be at risk during long stretches outside.
Below 20°F: Any dog can develop hypothermia or frostbite during a long stay outside.

A sweater helps on chilly days. In serious cold, PetMD recommends an insulated, windproof, water-resistant coat and shorter walks.

Questions

Which dogs need a sweater?

The dogs that need a sweater are the ones that lose heat fastest: small dogs, dogs with thin or short coats, lean dogs, puppies, older dogs, dogs with health conditions, and dogs that aren’t used to cold weather. Dogs with thick double coats handle the cold best.

Does wind or rain change when a dog needs a sweater?

Yes. Wind, rain, snow and cloud cover all make a walk colder than the temperature suggests, so a dog may need a sweater sooner on a damp or windy day. A dog that’s running hard makes more body heat and stays warmer.

How can I tell if my dog is cold?

You can tell a dog is cold when it shivers, whines, slows down, lifts its paws or looks for a warm spot. That’s the time to head inside. PetMD advises calling a veterinarian if a dog seems sluggish or confused, shivers severely, or has pale or cool body parts.

How do I measure my dog for a sweater?

To measure your dog for a sweater, measure the back from the base of the collar to the base of the tail, and the chest around its widest part. Public Pups sweaters come in sizes 2XS to 2XL, and each sweater’s size chart is on its product page. Between sizes? Send us the measurements and we’ll help you choose.