Quote:
Originally Posted by Yorkiedaze  If he shivers, then it's time for a coat.  |
I agree with Yorkiedaze, if they seem to be shivering or obviously cold then it's time for a coat. Every dog is different and I don't think you can really put a general sort of rule of thumb temperature to when a coat is necessary. I know a lady who raises American Hairless Terriers and she has commented that one of her boys tends to stay warmer than her other dogs and while the others seem to want to wear clothing pretty much all the time or snuggle up in a blanket he seems more comfortable without until the weather gets a bit cooler.
Dogs have a higher body temperature and sweat differently than we do (they sweat primarily through their feet). So what might work for us may not be what works for them. I think if we pay attention to the dog we should be able to tell if they are comfortable or not.
I read an article yesterday that talked about the fact that sled dogs wear booties occasionaly but that they can get overheated if they wear them for too long even though it is very cold and so they must be monitored. They also mentioned that sweat can collect in booties and grow greebly fungus etc. if worn for too long when the dog doesn't actually require them. I wasn't aware that it should be monitored and just sort of figured if it was cold it shouldn't really matter a whole lot so I thought I would share. I realize sled dogs are not yorkies but I think sometimes we might be tempted to cover them up sooner than might be actually necessary and what works for one dog may be not enough or could be too much for another.
Lu is pretty little (just under 3.5 lbs) and she will act like she is a bit chilled. She seems to make it pretty apparent when she would rather be snuggled up in a sweater etc.