Cold weather affects dogs in different ways, says registered veterinary nurse Rachel Garbutt from Butternut Box. Lean breeds, toy breeds, or older dogs feel low temperatures fast. A simple jumper helps them hold warmth on winter walks, which means less strain on joints and muscles.
“Dogs respond to winter at their own pace,” explains Rachel Garbutt. “A husky will relish a frosty morning. A whippet might feel uncomfortable in minutes. Owners who watch for early signs of cold keep their dogs safer. A warm layer supports comfort and keeps daily exercise stress-free.”
“Cold weather puts pressure on smaller, thinner, or older dogs,” explains Rachel Garbutt. “Even dogs with excellent natural insulation can become hypothermic if their fur is saturated."
Vet Nurse Rachel Garbutt shares expert advice on how jumpers help dogs stay warm, happy, and healthy in winter.
How winter affects different types of dogs
- Lean and short-haired breeds: Dog breeds like greyhounds, whippets, boxers, and vizslas lack the insulating fat and dense undercoat to retain heat effectively. Once the temperature dips to about 10°C, these dogs may need a waterproof coat to prevent rapid heat loss and subsequent muscle stiffness.
- Small and toy breeds: Due to their small body mass and high surface-area-to-volume ratio, smaller breeds (like chihuahuas and Yorkshire terriers) lose core heat faster than larger breeds. A properly fitted coat helps these breeds maintain their vital core temperature during brief outdoor excursions.
- Older dogs and joint health: For senior dogs and those with arthritis, cold weather exacerbates pain by reducing circulation and tightening muscles. For these patients, a good-quality coat is part of their clinical management, helping to minimise stiffness and improve mobility throughout the season.
What are the symptoms of a cold dog?
- Shortened stride on walks: Dogs that feel cold often tighten their muscles. They take smaller steps and try to keep their body compact.
- Hesitation at the door: If your dog pauses before stepping outside or tries to stay close to you, they might be bracing for the cold.
- Frequent stop-and-start behaviour: Dogs slow down when they lose body heat. They pause more often because their muscles feel stiff or uncomfortable.
- Holding their tail lower than usual: A dog that holds their tail closer to the body is trying to preserve warmth. It is a subtle sign, but it appears early.
- Lifting paws on colder ground: Cold pavements pull heat fast. Dogs lift their paws to reduce contact.
- Seeking body contact: Some dogs lean into your legs or try to press against your coat when they feel the cold. They want warmth and reassurance.
- Shivering, even lightly: Light shivers mean heat loss is already happening. A jumper helps stabilise their temperature so they stay relaxed.
Rachel Garbutt also adds that knowing these signals helps owners act early rather than waiting for discomfort: “When you see these signs, a jumper gives your dog steady support outdoors. It protects their muscles, keeps their energy stable, and helps them enjoy the walk instead of rushing back home.”
How to make sure a dog jumper fits
Rachel explains that “even the cosiest jumper won’t help if it doesn’t fit properly. Measure your dog’s neck, chest, and back length to ensure the garment isn’t too tight or restrictive. Stretchy, soft fabrics like merino wool or cotton blends provide warmth without overheating and allow for natural movement. Look for jumpers with flexible hems and openings so they don’t interfere with walking, running, or bodily functions.
“When layering over a harness or collar, pick styles that accommodate attachments without rubbing or discomfort. A jumper should feel like a gentle hug, not a constraint!”
Dog jumpers and coats are fantastic for keeping pups warm, but they’re not meant to be worn all the time,” Rachel says.
“If your dog is playing, running, or indoors, they can generate plenty of heat, and leaving a jumper on could cause discomfort or even overheating. Think of jumpers as seasonal helpers and use them outside for short periods to prevent shivering, then remove them once your dog is back inside. Always watch your dog’s behaviour; if they’re shivering, hunching, or trying to wriggle out, it’s time to take it off.”
