Ilio Pod and Co Blog

Find out why and when to put a coat on your dog in winter to protect him from the cold. Practical advice for your companion's well-being. 🐾 It may seem strange to put a coat on your dog. Is it necessary to protect your dog from the cold? Isn't dressing him up overdoing it? I asked myself these questions. And in general, when we talk about dressing your dog, here are the questions that come up most frequently: > Isn't the dog a rustic animal? > Why put a coat on your dog? > Which dogs (really) need to be covered? > …Do we really have to do it? Yes, you love your dog. But “should I put a coat on my dog ​​in winter” is still a real question. And you will see that the answer, or answers, are not so obvious. 1. Dogs are hardy, they don't need to be covered: myth or reality? When you imagine yourself in a swimsuit in the snow, with a light breeze passing along your body, walking in the shade, what do you feel? As with humans, not all dogs are equal when it comes to the cold or the rain. And above all, we, who are more or less sensitive to the cold, have the freedom to choose our clothes accordingly. Beyond aesthetics, humans have covered themselves to face harsh climates throughout history. If we look at the evolution of fashion and materials, again, it is not only aesthetics that have driven the changes. Today, breathable, covering, warming, and practical technical materials make up mountain sports fabrics. Isn't this proof that the textile industry has evolved its processes to help us better cope with harsh climates? In a way, our dogs are not all equipped with the same natural protections. So, some people really need a supplement to cope with humid and/or cold climates. Indeed, if Samoyeds and Huskies, Saint Bernards, Chow Chow, Newfoundlands, Bouviers etc., all dogs with thick fur, have natural abilities to brave the cold and snow, it is not the same for all the others. 2. Do all dogs need a coat? Which dogs should be covered? You're probably expecting the following answer: short-haired dogs? Yes… but not only that. Indeed, the size and age of the dog, diseases such as osteoarthritis and bone problems can play an important role in the need for coverage. It is always important to keep in mind that a dog feels temperature changes in the same way we do. The tremors, Slowness in movement Prolonged (and unusual) sleep So these are signs that should alert us. Then there are dogs that are particularly afraid of the cold. Such as: Sighthounds (Whippet, Spanish Galgo, Podenco, PLI – Little Italian Greyhound, Greyhound, Saluki, etc.) Mexican Hairless Dogs, Chinese Crested Dogs, Miniature Pinschers, Rat terriers Boxers, Dalmatians, The Basenji, or Nyam-Nyam Terrier The English Bulldog The Boxers Small dogs (Chihuahua, Continental Toy Spaniel Papillon, Shih Tzu, Miniature Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier, etc.) In fact, these dogs do not have an undercoat , which explains their high sensitivity to the cold. So, exposing them to the cold puts them in a situation of significant discomfort, it can also affect their immune system, but above all, in the long term, it can also cause health problems. And especially if your 4-legged friend suffers from osteoarthritis. Finally, observe him. Whether your dog is one of those listed above or is experiencing sensitivity due to age or illness, don't hesitate to cover him. 3. At what temperature should you cover your dog? In my experience, there is no season. Once again, observation is key. When he came back from Spain, our greyhound trembled because of a cool wind by the sea in the middle of...July! The ideal is therefore to go on holiday/walk (especially by the sea, forest, mountains) with a coat , or a fleece , for him in your backpack. 4. Which dog coat should you choose? It's all a matter of taste when it comes to aesthetics. That said, there are some essential qualities: Waterproof : while it protects your dog from water, it also protects him from the wind. Warm : lined with fleece, it's ideal Silent : Remember the KWays that go "scratch-scratch", not great, eh? For you as well as for him... (a bit like the bells...) Covering : especially on the belly; this is where dogs are often hairless. Fitted : ideal for running Reassuring : prefer bright colors in the countryside to be clearly visible during hunting season. (Editor’s note: fluorescent vests can be added) Depending on the physical characteristics of certain dogs, it will be necessary to select a coat that fits their size well. For example, greyhounds (Spanish Galgos, Podencos, Whippets) have such sharp bodies that they need a coat that does not hinder them during their racing games. 5. And what about the legs? There are boots to protect dogs' paws. Without boots, there are protective creams to protect or repair the pads. And above all, it is very important to dry your paws thoroughly when you come back from a walk : you must remove any snow that may have gotten between your pads , which can cause frostbite. I also put a cream on to nourish the pads. You need to choose it so that it penetrates well and does not cause your dog to slip if he moves after applying it. In short, managing the cold is not complicated, as long as you have a few accessories with you. Covering your furry friend allows you to continue sharing beautiful walks whatever the weather. So, it is with all these pleasant moments you have to share in mind that we created our range of clothing. We test them daily, which makes them very efficient. Discover our collection