How to Determine What Jacket My Puppy Needs

Doggy clothes serve many purposes depending on the needs of the dog. While the weather does determine what type of clothes are needed outside, indoor dogs also wear clothes. Dogs with arthritis might prefer a warmer fleece in air-conditioned units, while a younger dog may only need a light material to reduce soil and debris damage to the skin and coat, as well as keep allergens from irritating sensitive skin.

Things You'll Need

  • Low-fat dog treats
  • 1 light doggy jacket
  • 1 winter doggy jacket
  • 1 doggy rain slicker
  • 1 reflective doggy jacket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Notice when your puppy shivers and keep a jacket handy for those occasions.

    • 2

      Use a light jacket when weather is cool, such as inside air-conditioned buildings and during the spring and fall when the weather is changing, to prevent chills.

    • 3

      Use a light jacket to prevent fleas, ticks and mosquitoes from irritating your puppy during outings and camping trips.

    • 4

      Use a light jacket if your puppy tends to get cold during the night or hunts for litter mates. This will help your puppy sleep warmer and rest better.

    • 5

      Use heavier jackets when temperatures are below 50 degrees to maintain proper body temperature during walks and winter outings.

    • 6

      Use rain-slicker jackets during rainy weather and over top warming jackets in snowy and sleeting conditions to prevent the coat and your puppy from getting wet and cold.

    • 7

      Use a life-preserving jacket if your dog is on a boat or near a water source such as a pool or river to prevent your puppy from drowning.

    • 8

      Use reflective jackets during night outings such as walks or jogs through the park. This allows cars and other pedestrians to see your puppy.