FOUR PAWS explains when a raincoat or winter coat makes sense for your four-legged friend and what makes a good piece of clothing
Hamburg. For some dogs, it may make sense to wear a raincoat or a warm coat when going for a walk in the cold season. The global animal welfare foundation FOUR PAWS explains when a jacket should definitely be used for the animal and what makes a good coat.
“In many cases, a dog coat is much more than just a fashion accessory. Especially for puppies, older dogs, sick animals, dogs without an undercoat – such as poodles, Dobermans or Hungarian Vizsla – as well as short-legged breeds – such as dachshunds, Maltese or French bulldogs – a coat is actually a necessary protection against wet and cold. A special dog coat protects against cold penetrating through wet fur and, in the worst case, the dog getting hypothermia. Wet, “Cold fur can also lead to inflammation of the respiratory tract in dogs and bacteria and fungi can easily multiply in wet fur, which in turn can lead to skin inflammation. A dog coat is therefore very useful, especially on long walks,” says Dr. Sabrina Karl, qualified biologist and pet expert at FOUR PAWS.
The correct fit of the dog coat is important
If you decide on an unlined raincoat or a warm winter coat, certain criteria should be met. Particularly important: the right fit. “Ill-fitting rain or winter clothing can chafe or restrict the dog's freedom of movement. It is advisable to try on different models directly in a specialist store or to measure your dog carefully at home beforehand,” says Dr. Sabrina Karl. For the correct back length, you should measure from the withers (highest point of the shoulder) to the base of the tail. The chest circumference is determined by placing the tape measure around the widest area of the chest. “Depending on the density and length of the coat, one or two fingers should fit between the measuring tape and the chest. The same applies to the circumference of your dog's neck and stomach,” explains the expert.
Waterproof and not just water-repellent
“For your raincoat, choose a material that is waterproof and not just water-repellent,” recommends the FOUR PAWS expert. How waterproof the material is can often be determined by the “water column” information. (WS) Read: The higher the number, the more waterproof the material. “A water value of 10,000 millimeters is a good guideline and offers reliable protection in heavy rain or after prolonged contact with water,” says Dr. Sabrina Karl. Depending on the temperature or season, the coat can also be lined with warming material.
No hood please
“Do not choose a model with a hood. This will impair your dog's ability to move and communicate and possibly his field of vision,” says the expert.
A reflective coat provides additional protection
The cold season also means that it gets dark earlier. This means that walks often take place during the darker hours of the day. It therefore makes sense to have a coat model with high visibility: reflective seams and logos or a neon-colored fabric offer additional safety for the dog in poor lighting conditions.
Practice fitting gradually
“You may have to put several models on your dog until you finally find the right coat. Therefore, practice trying it on in small steps and with positive reinforcement beforehand so that the search does not become a test of patience for owner and animal. The most important thing: Don't force your dog if he doesn't really get used to a coat, but give yourself enough time to get used to it,” says Dr. Sabrina Karl.