Does Your Dog Need a Jacket this Winter?

Here at Mission Pets we love to dress up our dogs. Often the purpose of our outfits is to make a fashion statement, as you can see with our popular SimplyDog Americana Dress:

or the SimplyWag "Ladies Love Me" Graphic Print Dog Hoodie:

Of course, some people scoff at the idea of dressing dogs up for any occasion; however, as the days grow short and wintry, it’s important to understand the type of dog you have and make sure your best friend is protected against the onset of harsh conditions. Certain breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, Chow Chow or Siberian Husky thrive in the winter months and are unphased by subzero temperatures.

If your dog fits into one of the following categories, on the other hand, a jacket or sweater can assure safety and comfort throughout the winter season, especially if they will be spending extended periods of time outdoors:

• Small dogs, such as Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Yorkies
• Dogs with thin coats, such as Dobermans, Greyhounds, and Whippets. Included in this group are dogs that have naturally long thick coats but are often groomed to have short hair, such as Poodles
• Senior dogs: As dogs age, they can have trouble regulating their body temperature and are less active in general, making them more susceptible to cold weather than they were when they were younger. Also, if your senior pup suffers from arthritis, staying a little warmer in the winter can help relieve joint discomfort

If you notice your dog shivering or hesitating to go outside when the temperature drops, he or she would certainly appreciate the added comfort that jackets and sweaters can provide. Such apparel should fit snugly, cover your pet from the neck to the base of his tail, and not restrict movement. Even when outfitted for the freezing cold, your dog should be able to walk, run, play and relieve themselves without obstruction. 

Naturally, your dog will want to look as good as he or she feels, so we stock a variety of high quality jackets and sweaters that will help your pup stay warm while looking sharp. Here are a few of our favorites:

SimplyDog Reversible Barn Jacket:

PupCrew Pro Daybreak Jacket:

SimplyWag Heather Gray Cable Knit Sweater:

You can find more dog jacket and sweater options in the apparel section of our website. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions about how to best outfit your friend for when the thermometer begins to drop!