The Best Clothing for Active Dogs for all Kinds of Weather
Do you like to take your dog on adventures with you? Many of us do. However, this means taking a little extra time and thought to make sure that they are just as well equipped and comfortable as we are - whether on a camping trip or a run in the park.
It can be daunting to figure out exactly what you need when there are so many dog clothes to choose from, so let's break down what the best dog clothes are for active dogs in all circumstances.
Key Takeaway
Dress for the weather conditions. Active dogs benefit from different types of clothing depending on the weather and activity. Lightweight, well-fitting clothing is important for active dogs, regardless of breed.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Know First
Before you start poring over all the options, you need to ask questions. What is the temperature going to be where you’re taking your dog? If you are staying overnight, will the nighttime temperatures be colder? Are you likely to experience wet weather or other events?
You should also determine what the terrain will be like, e.g., rocky, grassy, sandy, as well as what activities you plan to do. Remember, it's not only small dogs that can benefit from warm sweaters or cooling vests.
This sounds difficult, but it can easily boil down to ‘What clothing and gear would I want for myself and my family?’
Whatever clothing you choose, it's good to look for clothing that’s lightweight and allows for the most movement so it doesn’t get in your dog’s way. Ideally, this should not be too loose or too tight, so make sure to measure your dog accurately for all clothing types.
Dog Clothes for the Summer Months
Many dog owners feel like dogs don’t need much clothing during warm weather, and this can be true. However, around the world, people are experiencing record temperatures, so you may need to be more prepared than before.
Dog Shoes
Dog Rainboots, Waterproof Dog Shoes - Green
One of the most important basics is dog shoes. They provide protection against boiling-hot pavements, hot sand, thorns, rough concrete, and myriad other dangers. These are a good addition whether you’re going on a hike, heading to the beach, or walking from your house to the dog park.
Good dog shoes should be breathable, with thick rubber or plastic soles, and have velcro straps or strings to secure them comfortably, no matter your dog’s activity level.
Dog shoes and boots can also be vital for protecting paws during the winter months too, as they can protect your dog from frost, ice, anti-freeze-covered roads, salted pavements, and uncomfortable, clumped icy/snowy fur on their legs.
You can find examples in the Sparkpaws Dog Shoes Collection.
Cooling Vests
Active pups don’t always realize they're overheating, and when they are running around and playing they can warm up quickly. Having a cooling vest on hand can help cool your dog down quickly after a burst of outdoor activities.
These vests can be especially useful for brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds, as well as overweight dogs that could struggle to cool themselves down, but any active dog could benefit from a vest in hot weather conditions.
There are a variety of cooling vests, but a lightweight option that doesn’t require much water is best for a busy dog. These are an excellent addition for beach days, pool days, or as a backup when going to the dog park in summer.
Sparkpaws’ Dog Cooling Vest Collection
Sunblock Shirts
We tend to think that a dog’s fur can and will protect them from the sun, but that’s not always the case. A sunblock shirt is a special, light, comfortable type of dog clothing that is made with SPF protection in mind.
These shirts are especially vital for light-coated or short-haired dogs, like pitbulls, who could be more prone to sunburn and elevated skin cancer risks while out exercising with you. Though all dogs can be at risk for sunburn and skin cancer.[1]
While any item of dog clothing can offer some sun protection, if you’re going to be having fun in the baking heat, then going for something lighter and more protective can be important. Look for sunblock shirts with sleeves, in light colors, with a good SPF, and that fit well on your dog’s body.
These shirts are good for running on the beach, but can be just as useful for when you take your dog walking or hiking in sunny weather.
Sparkpaws Dog Sunblock-T Collection
Raincoats
Breatheshield™ Dog Raincoat - Green Brown Tan
Raincoats for dogs are more than just a fashion statement. Walks need to happen in all kinds of weather for more active breeds, and raincoats help prioritise your dog’s comfort and keep your house clean and dry.
Unfortunately, many dog raincoats are made from plastic or rubber, which trap too much warmth, can chafe, and aren’t breathable. A good-quality raincoat should be made of breathable materials that remain waterproof, and it should allow easy attachment of leashes and harnesses.
For the best fit, a raincoat should come up around your dog’s head and neck, leaving their legs uncovered so they can exercise freely.
For some examples, check out Sparkpaws Dog Raincoat Collection.
Dog Clothing for the Winter Months and Cold Weather
Owners of active dogs know that activity doesn’t stop just because the weather isn’t cooperating. This can mean cold days, wet days, or even summer days where the temperature is unpredictable.
Dog Sweaters
Cable Knit Dog Sweater - Pine Green
Your average dog sweater can be an excellent fit for an active dog on a mildly cold day, especially for larger breeds or those with thicker fur who don’t get cold as easily. Active dogs tend to keep warm by moving, but can quickly lose this heat when catching their breath.
A good dog sweater is one that allows for a full range of motion on your dog’s limbs, while still keeping your dog toasty. Try to find one made of a breathable, comfortable fabric so it can provide warmth without getting uncomfortably stuffy during playtime.
The simplicity and comfort of a dog sweater can also be a good option for your dog to sleep in if you’re planning on camping out or spending the night somewhere. Remember, temperatures can drop quickly at night, even in summer.
Sparkpaws Knit Sweater Collection
Dog Jackets
WarmShield Water-Resistant Jacket - Lilac
Similar to a sweater, a dog jacket adds an extra layer of warmth to your dog’s outerwear. Dog jackets tend to be sturdier than sweaters, and often have water-resistant outer layers - which makes them good for longer, colder outdoor adventures, especially in areas with lots of snow.
Some jackets can be quite encompassing. However, like dog sweaters, owners of active dogs should look for types that don’t have sleeves, so the dog can still run and move about without hassle.
Dog hoodies may be good for cold days, while thicker materials like water-resistant layers or corduroy are better for longer outings in harsher conditions. Their durability is good for rough-and-tumble play, and they are often easier to wipe down and clean than softer garments.
This could be a good option for dogs with longer coats that are at risk of getting their fur wet or tangled in muddy forests or snow banks.
Sherpa Fleece Dog Coats
A sherpa fleece dog coat is a good middle ground between a jacket and a sweater. They tend to be a bit lighter and more comfortable for relaxing than a rigid dog jacket, but have an extra layer of warmth compared to a simple sweater.
These coats are a good choice for thin-coated dogs that need a little extra warmth when they want to walk or play on a cold day. The thick, soft material offers more flexibility than a jacket, and can be a lot more comfortable when you’re all jammed into a tent together.
Both Jackets and Coats that have hoodie attachments can be useful for keeping frost and snow away from sensitive ears.
How to Tell if Your Dog is Uncomfortable
Knowing whether your dog is too hot or too cold is important. Especially for active dogs, who may ignore their discomfort if they’re having too much fun.
If your dog is too hot[2], they may-
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Pant excessively
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Seem restless
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Try to lie in the shade or on a cold surface
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Drink more water than usual
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Be unusually lethargic.
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Drool more than normal
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Red, chafed paws from running on hot surfaces
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Or show signs of overheating, such as bright red gums.
This can be a sign that your dog is too hot and needs to cool down immediately.
A dog that is too cold[3] may-
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Shiver
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Curl up tightly
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Lift their paws off the cold ground
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Move slowly or try to stop the activity and lie down
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Seek warm places
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Tuck their tails in
Every dog is different. Breed, age, size, health, coat type, and activity level can affect how they handle different temperatures. The best approach is to watch your dog carefully and add or remove appropriate clothing as needed to keep them comfortable.
Conclusion
Choosing the right clothing for your active dog depends on the weather, terrain, and what you want to do. With each option, you will need lightweight, well-fitting gear that allows freedom of movement.
In warm weather, dog shoes protect paws from hot surfaces, cooling vests help prevent overheating, sunblock shirts provide UV protection, and breathable raincoats keep dogs dry during wet conditions.
For colder weather, sweaters provide comfortable warmth, jackets offer extra protection against harsh conditions, and sherpa fleece coats offer the best of both.
Whatever options you go for, make sure to plan ahead and know your dog well enough to tell when they need a little extra help. Hopefully, whatever activities you have planned will go swimmingly.
For access to some of the products mentioned, check out Sparkpaws’ Dog Apparel Collection for all-weather clothing.
FAQ
Does my Active Dog Need Special Clothing?
Not all dogs need clothing, but many active dogs benefit from the added protection that temperature-sensitive clothing can provide.
What Type of Jacket is Best for Active Dogs?
Look for lightweight, breathable jackets that provide warmth and weather protection without restricting movement during walking, hiking, or playing. The type may depend on your breed or personal needs.
Should Dogs Wear Shoes When Hiking or Walking?
Yes, ideally, shoes should be worn to protect your dog from hot surfaces such as sand or rocks, as well as thorns, ice, or even broken glass around campgrounds
What Clothing is Best for Dogs During Winter Adventures?
Winter adventures need dog clothes that are warm and insulating, yet light enough to carry without your dog becoming fatigued. Sweaters, sherpa coats, and jackets can all have their own benefits, depending on the conditions you’re walking in.
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