Keep Your Dog Warm in Cold Climates

Do you ever wonder why people dress their dogs in coats? Aside from fashion, there are a number of good reasons. Some dogs who live in colder climates require the extra protection that a coat provides. Smaller, hairless dogs, in particular, can be extremely uncomfortable in colder weather. With the many options available, there's no excuse for a dog to be anything but toasty warm. And chances are not only will the coat keep the wet and cold out, it will draw quite a few admiring glances from those who appreciate its style. Yes, those in the dog coat industry have been very busy combining function and fashion! Dog coats come in a number of fabrics, and are similar in style to those that people wear. You are sure to see the same colors that you will see people wearing on the street or in the mall. Pink, brown, and light blue are very "in" this year with people and with dogs alike! There are lots of different styles, and all make warmth a priority. Dogs in extremely cold climates can benefit from a coat made of quilted, waterproof nylon. These coats keep the cold and wet out and the warmth in with an interior fleece lining. Some dog coats are made of extremely high-tech, high-quality outerwear material, much like the ski jackets made for people. These are waterproof, breathable, and lined with microfleece. Some of them come with reflective strips for nighttime safety. There are coats that mimic ski parkas and coats that mimic duffle coats. There are hooded coats and coats with belly straps. There are faux suede shearling coats in several trendy colors. Whatever style you decide to go with, make sure its dog-proof. The coat should be easy to get in and out of, and should be durable enough to withstand a day--or a winter, for that matter--in the life of a dog. Sweaters can also keep a dog warm in cold weather. Sweaters come in different styles, colors, and materials. Those made of wool are warmest, and there are some truly luxurious sweater options for the dog owner. Nordic sweaters and Irish knit sweaters are both warm and fashionable, not to mention the fact that they are easy to wash. Fleece hoodies and sweatshirts also keep a dog warm on milder days. If you live an environment that has snow on the ground, boots are imperative. Boots will protect your dog's sensitive paws from the cold, snow, and salt on the ground. If your dog has chapped or cracked paws because of the cold, boots will also speed the healing process along. Boots come in a variety of colors and styles, but you'll want to make sure they are easy to get on and off with a zipper or velcro closure. The outer material should be waterproof and durable. With a warm coat and a good pair of boots, it's easy to keep your dog warm this winter.