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Do Dogs Need a Coat in Winter? (UK Guide by Breed, Age and Weather)
Quick answer: which dogs usually need a coat?
Dogs with short, fine coats, low body fat, or certain health conditions often benefit from a winter coat—especially in wet, windy UK weather.
What matters most: coat type, body fat, age, health and wind/rain
- Coat type: Short or fine coats lose heat quickly.
- Body fat: Slim or lean dogs get cold faster.
- Age: Puppies and seniors are less able to regulate body temperature.
- Health: Illness, arthritis, or low immunity increases chill risk.
- Weather: Wind, rain, and dampness chill dogs faster than cold alone.
Dogs more likely to benefit from a coat
Short-haired and fine-coated breeds
Greyhounds, whippets, staffies, and similar breeds lose heat rapidly.
Small dogs
Little dogs like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Dachshunds have less body mass to keep warm.
Puppies and senior dogs
Young and old dogs need extra help to stay warm in winter.
Dogs with health conditions
Recovery from illness, joint problems, or low body weight all increase the need for extra warmth.
Dogs less likely to need a coat (but still might in rain)
Double-coated breeds (Collies, Labs, Huskies) usually cope well, but may still benefit from a waterproof layer in cold rain or after clipping.
What type of coat should you choose?
- Waterproof for wet walks: Essential in the UK! See our Doodlebone range.
- Insulated for cold snaps: For frosty mornings or snow.
- Drying coat for after wet walks/baths: Ruff & Tumble drying coats are perfect post-adventure.
Dog Coat Size Guide — Get the right fit for your breed.
Fit matters
A coat should fit snugly but not tightly, covering the back and chest without restricting movement. Check out our Dog Coat Size Guide for detailed tips.
Common mistakes
- Overheating: Remove the coat indoors or in mild weather.
- Rubbing: Check for chafing behind the legs and underarms.
- Wrong type: Waterproof for wet, insulated for cold, drying for after walks.
FAQs
What temperature should a dog wear a coat?
It varies—watch for shivering, reluctance to walk, or huddling.
It varies—watch for shivering, reluctance to walk, or huddling.
Do dogs get cold in the rain?
Yes—wet coats lose insulation fast, so a waterproof layer helps.
Yes—wet coats lose insulation fast, so a waterproof layer helps.
Do dogs need coats at night?
Only if it’s very cold and they’re outdoors—indoors, most are fine.
Only if it’s very cold and they’re outdoors—indoors, most are fine.
Do puppies need a coat in winter?
Often yes, especially small breeds or thin-coated pups.
Often yes, especially small breeds or thin-coated pups.
Do greyhounds/whippets need coats?
Absolutely—they have little natural insulation.
Absolutely—they have little natural insulation.
Can a dog overheat in a coat?
Yes—remove coats indoors or in mild weather.
Yes—remove coats indoors or in mild weather.
How do I know if my dog is cold on a walk?
Shivering, slowing down, or holding up paws are classic signs.
Shivering, slowing down, or holding up paws are classic signs.
Is a fleece coat enough in winter?
For dry, chilly days—pair with waterproof for rain.
For dry, chilly days—pair with waterproof for rain.
Are dog coats only for small dogs?
No—many large breeds benefit too, especially after clipping.
No—many large breeds benefit too, especially after clipping.
Should I put a coat on my dog after a bath?
A drying coat helps them warm up and dry off quickly.
A drying coat helps them warm up and dry off quickly.
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