Should You Buy a Coat for Your Dog?

Many people assume that because dogs have a fur coat, they don't need the additional layer of a coat we could provide. Truth is, we have taken some of the breeds away from their natural environment that they have been bred for and they haven't quite adapted to the new climate, naturally.

If you have a canine companion that spends alot of time indoors, there will be a time where an extra coat will be necessary when going outdoors. They have been acclimated to the indoor warm temperatures and their coats may not be as thick, so an extra layer can be very helpful for a more comfortable, longer stay outdoors.

Because they are warm blooded creatures like humans, they are affected by the temperature changes, too. If left unprotected for an extended time in the bitter cold they can also suffer from the effects of hypothermia.

A young puppy will hesitate to go out which will hinder your attempts at house breaking and an older dog, who is not capable of generating enough of its own heat will benefit greatly from this extra layer of comfort.

Candidates that will benefit from a good coat fitting:

• Sparse coated breeds, i.e. Greyhound, Vizlas, Chihuahua, or a Pug
• Puppies
• Older, infirm dogs
• Dogs that are low to the ground
• Anyone that has a short hair cut
• Living in a drafty house

It the weather is cold, wet and windy it is a perfect moment to put that extra layer of protection on. Your dog's behavior will tell you if the extra help in necessary such as shivering or reluctance to go outside.

When fitting a coat on your dog there are a few things to consider:

• Essential to be a good fit so it does not come off when walking or running
• Consider the type of activity your dog will be engaging in and choose appropriately.
• Allow full range of motion with no restriction in the leg area.
• Is there enough clearance underneath so the boys can do their 'business'?
• Measure the dog's back with a tape measure. Start where the collar begins and then to the base of the tail. Most coats are sized in 2 inch increments.
• Although the same size, different manufacturers' products will fit differently, so it is always a good idea to bring your dog into Village Critter Outfitter for a proper fitting.

Broad chested breeds like a Pug, Bulldog or Boxer, and breeds that have long backs with deep chests like a Dachshund or PBGV are more of a challenge to fit. Village Critter Outfitter will be able to guide you for a good fit.

There are some advantage for you if your dog wears a coat - fewer towels needed for drying off, less clean up in the car, and less doggie smell in the car or home.

Village Critter Outfitter has won Best Pet Supplies and Best Pet Clothing 3 years in a row.