At What Temperatures Should a Short-Haired Dog Wear a Jacket?

The time to put a jacket on your dog doesn't depend as much on the temperature as it does on your dog. Some dogs need outdoor clothing when the temperature drops below 50; others are comfortable until it's below freezing, and some never need one at all. Large breeds tolerate the cold better than small breeds, but that can depend on your dog's age and health.

  1. Coat Please

    • Certain dogs need a coat as soon as it gets cool. Thin dogs, short-haired dogs, sick dogs, some puppies or older dogs and breeds whose roots are in hot climates will benefit from warm clothing when the temperature dips. A good rule of thumb for these dogs is to cover them outdoors when you're cold enough to wear a jacket.
      Even heartier double-coated breeds that don't normally need jackets can chill if they are immune-compromised or suffer from certain conditions such as Lyme disease, Cushing's, arthritis or heart disease. If your dog shivers outside, he needs extra help to keep warm.

    Prone to Chill

    • A dog's normal temperature is higher than a human's. Canine normal is between 100.5 and 102 Fahrenheit, so if your dog is sensitive to cold, he will feel it slightly sooner than you do. Many breeds such as huskies, Saint Bernards, collies and Shetland sheepdogs grow a natural coat that protects them in cold temperatures. But breeds such as Chihuahuas, greyhounds, terriers and pinschers need extra warmth in cold weather.
      Some long-haired dogs chill easily too, in spite of their natural coats. Single-coated breeds such as the bearded collie, briard and Maltese may need jackets in cold weather.

    Other Weather Conditions

    • Consider the weather when deciding on a jacket for your dog.

      Your dog will tell you when he needs a coat. If he shivers when he's outside, whines, tucks his tail between his legs or is reluctant to go out, he should be wearing a jacket. Your dog may chill on a day when the temperature isn't freezing but the wind is blowing or a cold rain is falling. Damp weather can be colder than dry weather. Watch your dog for signs of chilling to indicate when he needs a coat.

    What to Buy?

    • Choose your dog's coat according to what fits his body style, activity level and need for warmth. There are many styles and materials available. One of the warmest and most versatile is polar fleece, which breathes well, wicks moisture and can be machine washed and dried.
      Coats made from neoprene or nylon shells with fleece lining offer extra warmth and are waterproof -- a good choice if you have to walk your dog in all weather conditions.
      Measure your dog accurately before ordering. A dog coat should be snug but not tight or so loose that it will slip. A popular style that fits most dogs well covers the back and closes with Velcro straps or clips under the stomach, much like a horse blanket.