When the weather outside is frightful, you may be tempted to stay inside where the fire is so delightful. However, winter is a magical time when everything is covered in ice and snow sparkling in the sunshine or falling quietly in the woods. As puppy owners, you shouldn’t let cold weather scare you into going on unique winter adventures with your dog.
Winter doesn’t have to mean hunkering down for months at a time with your puppy. With the right must-have winter gear for dogs, you can be prepared to have fun during these cold months.
Is Every Dog a Cold-Weather Dog?
Every dog can be a cold-weather dog with proper preparation and precaution. However, some are more naturally suited for others for cold weather conditions, so the key is to understand your dog’s breed to take the necessary steps to keep them appropriately warm.
Cold-weather dog breeds and their double coats
Some dogs are cold-weather dog breeds that thrive in harsh winter conditions. They were bred specifically for outdoor living and traditionally have dog jobs to assist their humans with various physical tasks. Most of these dog breeds originated in northern parts of the world where it is colder than more temperate climates year-round.
Cold-weather dog breeds will have larger body sizes and thick, double coats that both help provide insulation against the bitter temperatures. Their outer layer consists of weatherproof, dense long guard hairs that protect the soft, downy underlayer made of finer, loftier fur. These layers work together to provide insulation from icy temperatures by trapping body heat close to the skin.
Double-coated dogs will not need special sweaters if it is cold outside thanks to the unique cooling and heating system a double coat provides. If you do use a coat, be mindful to not interfere with your dog’s natural ability to keep itself warm.
Some cold-weather dog breeds that thrive in frigid climates include:
- Bernese Mountain Dogs: Hailing from Bern, Switzerland, Bernese Mountain Dogs were used to haul carts up and down mountains, guarded properties, and provided companionship in the Swiss Alps.
- Siberian Huskies: Originating from the Chukchi people of the Arctic, Siberian Huskies hauled heavy loads great distances across unforgiving winter terrain. They were bred for incredible stamina and strength using minimal energy to last for days on end.
- St. Bernards: With their giant paws, remarkable sense of smell and direction, and thick, fur coat, friendly St. Bernards helped pilgrims navigate the harrowing alpine passes on their journey to Rome. Monks set up various hospices where St. Bernards would lead weary travelers after rescuing them from avalanches or blizzards.
Short-haired, single-coated dogs
On the opposite spectrum, some dogs have short, single coats made of uniform hair length. Their smooth, sleek fur stays close to the skin and does not have the insulating properties of a double coat. These dogs will need lots of extra protection from the cold, as they cannot regulate their body heat. These dogs look great in cute, functional coats, and make sure they do not stay outside in the cold for too long. Dog breeds with short single coats include Boston Terriers, Italian Greyhounds, Boxers, Chihuahuas, and Beagles to name a few.
Winter Accessories For Dogs
Winter accessories for dogs can both serve a function while looking fashionable. There are so many cute selections to help keep your puppy warm and toasty while showing off how adorable they are against a snow-white background and blue sky.
However, going overboard with winter dog accessories is easy, especially with themed sweaters or cute coats with tiny zippers and faux-fur-lined hoods. Being a financially responsible puppy owner is important to keep in mind before you load up your shopping cart. Don’t go into debt for an accessory and choose the one that is the best quality for your budget.
Reversible British Style Plaid Dog Vest from Kuoser
This cozy Reversible British Style Plaid Dog Vest will keep your puppy warm while being oh-so-fashionable. Made of a double layer of polyester fleece and weather-resistant materials, this lightweight vest will keep your dog warm without being too bulky. If the weather is terrible, the water-repellent and windproof coat will protect your puppers from the elements until you are back inside.
Fair Isle Knitted Dog Hat by Frisco
The acrylic pattern of the Fair Isle Knitted Dog Hat by Frisco sets a cozy, festive tone for the winter season. It’s easy to wear and stays put with its built-in ear holes and an adjustable toggle on the chin strap. It’s machine washable in case it gets dirty. The Fair Isle hat also makes a great prop for a photoshoot with your puppy!
Puppy Puffer Hooded Jacket by Fuamey
Small dogs have a difficult time holding in body heat, so they need warm coats that are as cute as they are functional. The stylish Puffy Puffer Hooded Jacket is windproof polyester to protect your puppy from the harsh winter elements and is machine washable and durable. Taking them on a walk is easy, as the leash hole is hidden under the hood.
Winter Paw Care For Dogs
While not all dogs need coats, all dogs’ paws need to be cared for in winter as an essential part of their well-being. In the winter, common dog paw issues for all dog breeds stem from factors like managing snowy conditions and dry air. Chemical burns occur from coming into contact with corrosive chemicals via de-icing products like rock salt that are used on sidewalks and roads to prevent ice from forming. Walking through these toxic substances will irritate your puppy’s paws.
Regular inspection, quick treatment, and taking preventative measures to avoid paw issues in the first place will keep your dog’s paws strong and healthy during the winter months.
If you neglect your dog’s paw care, it can lead to painful conditions. Your puppy might not even be able to walk properly, and the pain can grow to be unbearable.
Products to keep your dog’s paws healthy are essential to use in winter. Paw wash and formulated wipes can help remove the corrosive chemicals so it doesn’t linger and continue to affect their pads when they’re back inside. Specialty booties will prevent dogs’ paws from making contact with sharp ice and salt. Salves and balms absorb through the paws and eliminate cracks, making their paw pads supple and moisturized.
Dermabliss Medicated Hydrocortisone 3-In-1 Allergy Cat & Dog Wipes by Vetnique Labs
Dermabliss wipes cleanse, soothe, and relieve inflammation due to allergies or skin irritation. The all-in-one formula helps to clean, calm, and target raw paws. They’re gentle enough to use every day or just when needed.
All Terrain Dog Boots by GF Pets
These all-weather booties are designed to protect your dog when walking outside during winter weather. They fit like a sock and are easy to wear thanks to the adjustable hook and loop straps and ultra-grip soles. Coming in sizes XXS-XXL, there is a set of booties to fit every dog breed.
Pawstruck Ruff Relief Nose & Paw Dog Balm
Made in the USA with non-toxic, globally sourced ingredients, Ruff Relief Nose & Paw Dog Balm both protects your puppy’s paws from ice and other irritants and relieves dry skin at the same time. In addition to applying on paws, you can use the paw dog balm on your dog’s nose, skin, and elbow hot spots.
Winter Skin Health For Dogs
Many people may forget that skin is an organ that needs special attention to function properly. Winter skin health for dogs will keep your dog’s coat and skin from flaking and getting dry and irritated. Your dog can experience dry skin in winter due to low humidity levels and seasonally dry air. Skin absorbs moisture from the air due to its permeability. When there is not enough moisture, your dog’s outer layer can become damaged.
When skin is brittle with a compromised barrier, it’s not able to fend off inflammation or allergic reactions very well and can lead to atopic dermatitis in dogs. Because most dogs spend more time indoors in the winter, allergens like dust mites, mold in the air, and other everyday irritants can cause severe skin issues.
A few digestible and external products can help strengthen and moisturize your dog’s skin during winter. Always ask your veterinarian if supplements are the right choice for your puppy before purchasing a product and giving it to your puppy.
Omega 3 Fish Oil Skin & Coat Chews for Dogs Chews By Good Growlies
These Good Growlies skin and coat chews feature Salmon Oil sourced Omega-3-6-0 fatty acids that serve as a defense against hot spots and itching. In addition to helping skin allergies, the all-natural ingredients support healthy heart function and keep joints flexible and healthy.
Dog Soother and Moisturizer Hotspot Cream from Puppy Lisa
Dog Soother and Moisturizer Hotspot Cream is a vital tool for protecting your puppy’s skin barrier. Coconut oil, arnica and calendula extracts, and ceramide liposomes help moisturize paws and soothe hot, irritated skin. This ultra-concentrated formula made in the US is more effective than a spray because it quickly absorbs through the skin.
Mentally Stimulating Toys for Indoor Fun
Even though a cold-weather dog breed is comfortable in harsh conditions, sometimes the weather outside is too much for a cold-loving puppy. When terrible winter weather conditions strike, you’ll need to find ways to keep a dog busy inside when you can’t go out.
While physical exercise is important, mental stimulation for puppies will keep them occupied and engaged. Building physical skeletomuscular health is vital, and equally important is sharpening the brain. Mental stimulation helps dogs practice problem-solving skills, build neurological pathways, and cater to their natural instincts.
Without the right amount of mental stimulation, a bored dog can become anxious and destructive. They will make their own fun by barking, chewing, digging, and exhibiting other undesirable behaviors to keep themselves busy. A dog with the right amount of mental stimulation will be a well-behaved, satisfied dog.
These products will help prevent destructive behavior in a fun, directed way for your puppy.
Interactive Long Lasting Dog Tug-of-war Toy for Aggressive Chewers by Feeko
Playing tug-of-war with your puppy is a great way to boost confidence, provide exercise, and bond with your dog while having fun. When you’re stuck indoors, a game of tug-of-war encourages problem-solving skills, gives a full-body workout, and even helps dental health. The Interactive Long Lasting Dog Tug-of-war Toy for Aggressive Chewers by Feeko features a double-handled natural rubber convex design that’s nearly indestructible for a great game of tug-of-war.
Under The Sea Dog Snuffle Mat by Injoya
Is there a better to beat the winter blues than with a snuffle mat featuring a colorful underwater scene? The non-toxic polyester fabric holds training treats, snacks, and kibble, and the anti-slip backing keeps it in place as they snoot around. A snuffle mat will keep your puppy entertained for some time as they hunt for treasures hidden in the textured folds.
Wobble Wag Giggle Ball + JW Pet Crackle Heads Ball Dog Toy Bundle
Get two great interactive toys in one bundle when you purchase a Wobble Wag Giggle Ball & a Cracke Heads dog toy. These battery-free toys have materials inside that crunch, crackle, and other fun sounds that keep your puppy’s attention. The tough outer layers provide stability and durability for heavy chewers.
Chase the Winter Blues Away With a Pawrade Puppy
If you are ooing and aahing over all the cute and practical winter accessories and products for dogs but don’t have a puppy to dress up and protect from the winter elements, Pawrade has the paw-fect puppy to romp around in the snow with you and make memories.
We partner with reputable breeders to bring you happy puppies for sale. Every breeder on our platform undergoes rigorous screening, as we don’t let just anyone into our program. Our commitment to safe puppy adoption extends beyond our vetting process, as we provide a scam-free, secure transaction experience.
Pawrade services extend beyond adoption. We offer new puppy owner education sessions and Q&A opportunities, providing valuable guidance for those embarking on their puppy adoption journey.
If you’re ready to get started finding your four-legged cold-weather buddy, check out our puppies for sale.
