Author: Chewy Editors

Dogs who have trouble generating and maintaining body heat on their own may need sweaters or coats during cold weather. “Dog clothes in wintertime are recommended in small toy breed dogs or dogs with short hair coats (either naturally or due to grooming),” says Dr. Barrack. Smaller dogs typically have less body fat and are closer to the cold ground, often necessitating a jacket for warmth. Similarly, even larger dogs with thin body types, like Greyhounds, may require clothing during cold weather. “Other dogs [who] may need sweaters are older dogs with compromised immune systems or dogs with endocrine issues that result in thinned coats,” says Dr. Barrack. Conditions such as Cushing’s disease or hypothyroidism impact hair growth; a jacket helps trap body heat and will prevent your elderly or sick dog from getting cold. Some dogs, however, don’t need a jacket—their natural fur coats function like one! “Large breed dogs with thick coats, like Bernese Mountain, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland and Siberian Huskies, among others, do not require extra insulation from a coat or a sweater in the winter,” says Dr. Barrack. These breeds of dogs have evolved to have thick insular coats to keep them warm in colder climates, so putting a jacket on them could cause them to overheat and hinder their natural body temperature control mechanisms.,During dog walks during the frigid winter months, you may wonder, “Do dogs need coats or sweaters?” The answer: Dog clothes—while absolutely adorable—are not just for fashion-forward pups. Dressing your dog in a cozy sweater or dog hoodie is a great way to help them stay warm. “When the temperature drops, some dogs may benefit from dog sweaters or dog jackets to keep warm,” says Dr. Rachel Barrack, DVM, CVA, CVCH of Animal Acupuncture in New York City. If you notice your pup shivering when you head out for your daily walks, then yes, your dog needs a coat or sweater. But before you go shopping for new pet apparel for your pet, here are a few things you should keep in mind.

If you see a Foxhound or Harrier of correct and true breed type, you will never have to guess if it is an American, English or Harrier hound. It is indisputable that all three hound breeds arose from common ancestors. Harriers were bred down in size from English Foxhounds and are accurately described as “a smaller version of the English Foxhound.” At the time of the American Revolution, Lord Fairfax sent several English Foxhounds to George Washington, who is credited with crossing these hounds with various sighthounds to produce the foundation of the American Foxhound breed. All three hound breeds were developed to hunt in packs followed by mounted huntsmen, having all the attributes of scenting pack hounds. However, since quarry and terrain differed, the breeds evolved in various ways to better suit their jobs. When dog breeders, exhibitors and judges meet to discuss what makes each breed unique, they use terms such as “head breed” and “outline breed.” If they were to describe the English Foxhound, American Foxhound or Harrier in such stereotypical fashion, they would call them “running gear breeds,” indicating the importance of feet and legs in these functional pack hounds. The AKC breed standard for the English Foxhound, composed more than 50 years ago by fox hunters, outlines the essential components of a successful working hound. The scale of points assigns 20 points to legs and feet, 5 points to elbows, 10 points to hindquarters and 10 points to shoulders, awarding 45 of 100 points to the merits of the hound’s running gear. Assigning only 5 points to the head eliminates any notion that the English Foxhound ever be thought of as a “head breed.” The American Foxhound breed standard also includes a scale of points, assigning a full 15 points to the feet alone, included in the total 35 points for running gear. Shoulders are assigned another 15 points. The Harrier standard itemizes running gear, along with scenting ability, as particularly important features of this scenting pack hound.

Pet parents want their fur babies to live happy, healthy lives. And making sure dogs and cats get the nutrition they need is a big part of that equation. As more humans turn to wholesome, nourishing ingredients and make natural lifestyle choices, pets also benefit from the top healthful trends.

The countdown is on for the big holiday, and part of the fun for many pet parents includes the opportunity to take your dog to visit Santa. However, before your trip to meet St. Nick, take a moment to check our list (twice!) for these easy tips to make your visit jollier. After all, a trip to visit the man in the red suit is usually one in which everyone—not just Santa—will know who’s naughty and who’s nice by the end of it.