Vet’s settles debate on whether dogs should wear a coat this winter

As temperatures drop and the weather turns unpredictable, many dog owners are left wondering whether their furry companions need a little extra protection from the cold. While some believe that dogs don’t need coats because they’re naturally equipped to handle the cold, some say the reality isn’t that simple. Factors like breed, size, age, and coat thickness all play a role in determining whether a dog should wear extra layers during winter.

One Spanish veterinarian, however, has taken to social media to share her expert take on the debate. María, a vet known online as María VetiCan addressed the matter in a recent TikTok video that she shared with her 608.4k followers and has gained thousands of views.

She said in the video: “Putting a coat on your dog is it humanising them? Do they really need it?

“Many criticise this practice by arguing that dogs are animals, that they are tough, that they can withstand the cold, that their fur protects them, that it regulates their temperature and that in nature they wouldn’t need them, and that putting a little coat on them is stupid for them to wear a coat.

“Well, I disagree. Like everything in life, you have to use a bit of common sense.”

According to her, it depends on the dog and what breed it is. Some breeds are naturally better suited for the cold while others may need an extra layer during the colder months.

María added: “Nordic dogs, like the Husky, the Samoyed, or the Shiba Inu don’t need a coat.

“My dog, for example, is a Border Collie and has quite a bit of fur. They’re also double-coated, so in winter Border Collies have more wool.”

On the other hand, some breeds are completely unprepared for the cold, the expert said.

“There are little dogs that don’t have that type of fur. They don’t have it as long or as thick, nor do they have a double coat, and sometimes it’s trimmed before winter starts, so their skin is a bit more exposed to the cold.”

However, she stressed that other factors also come into play. If a dog is very old, its ability to regulate body temperature may be reduced. Likewise, if a dog is ill or has a fragile immune system, the dog will need a coat for extra protection, the vet said.

María highlighted that behaviour is another element to watch for. If you notice your dog seems cold or is reluctant to go outside, it could be a sign they need extra warmth. She said she would put a coat on her dog if she observed any of these signs, regardless of the breed.

She added: “My dog comes first and I want my dog to be well.I don’t care what any stranger says out there. Just meet your dog’s needs. In my opinion, that’s not humanising them, it’s caring for them and ensuring their comfort and welfare. And don’t worry about what people say, it’s not black or white. Take care of your dog.”